Have you ever tasted a cocktail so vibrant it instantly transports you to the sun-soaked streets of Spain? If not, you’re in for a treat with Agua de Valencia—a sparkling citrus drink that’s as refreshing as it is unforgettable. This authentic Spanish cocktail combines the bold flavors of Valencia orange juice, Cava, vodka, and gin into one irresistible glass of joy.

Whether you’re planning a boozy brunch, a relaxed evening with friends, or simply want to shake things up at home, this homemade cocktail recipe is the perfect choice. It’s light, fruity, and carries just the right amount of sparkle to lift any mood.

Let’s dive into the magic of Agua de Valencia—a signature Spanish drink that’s sure to blow your mind (in the best way).

Key Benefits

What makes Agua de Valencia so special? It’s more than just a cocktail—it’s a burst of sunshine in a glass. Here’s why this sparkling citrus drink deserves a spot in your recipe lineup:

• Quick and Easy to Make
  No fancy tools or bartending skills required. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a homemade cocktail ready in minutes.
• Bright, Refreshing Flavor
  The natural sweetness of Valencia orange juice perfectly balances the crispness of Cava, with just enough vodka and gin to give it a bold edge without overpowering the citrus notes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion
  Whether it’s a casual get-together, a boozy brunch, or a warm evening on the patio, this authentic Spanish cocktail fits the vibe. It’s festive without being fussy.
• Customizable to Your Taste
  Like it sweeter? Add a touch of sugar. Want a lighter version? Use more juice and less alcohol. It’s a drink that plays well with preferences.
• Brings a Taste of Spain Home
  You don’t need to hop on a plane to enjoy a signature Spanish drink. One sip of this citrusy cocktail, and you’ll feel like you’re right in the heart of Valencia.

So whether you’re hosting, relaxing, or simply exploring new flavors, Agua de Valencia is your go-to for a refreshing cocktail that’s equal parts elegant and easy. Let’s get into what you’ll need to make it.

Ingredients

Ready to mix up a glass of pure sunshine? Let’s break down everything you’ll need to create Agua de Valencia, the ultimate Spanish cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is fun to sip.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed Valencia orange juice
  – The star of the show. For the best flavor, use ripe, juicy Valencia oranges. If those aren’t available, any fresh-squeezed orange juice will work in a pinch—just avoid the bottled stuff with added sugar.
• 1 cup Cava (Spanish sparkling wine)
  – Cava brings the sparkle. Choose a brut or semi-seco variety for the perfect balance of crispness and sweetness.
• 1 oz gin
  – Adds botanical depth to the drink. You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you like your cocktails.
• 1 oz vodka
  – A neutral spirit that enhances the kick without altering the flavor too much.
• 1–2 teaspoons granulated sugar (optional)
  – If your oranges are on the tart side, a bit of sugar helps mellow things out. Start with a teaspoon and taste from there.
• Ice cubes
  – To keep things chilled and refreshing without diluting the flavor too quickly.
• Orange slices or zest, for garnish (optional)
  – Adds a vibrant, citrusy finish that makes each glass look as good as it tastes.

Pro Tip:
Chill all your ingredients ahead of time—especially the Cava and orange juice. A well-chilled base keeps your cocktail crisp and refreshing without relying too heavily on ice.

Up next: we’ll walk through the simple steps to bring this refreshing citrus cocktail to life!

How to Make Agua de Valencia

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to mix up a batch of Agua de Valencia—a sparkling cocktail that’s bold, bright, and unbelievably easy to prepare. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be sipping on sunshine in no time.

🥂 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Chill Everything First
   Before you begin, make sure your Cava, orange juice, and spirits are well chilled. This keeps the drink refreshing without watering it down with too much ice.
2. Juice the Oranges
   If you’re using fresh Valencia oranges (and I highly recommend you do!), juice them until you have about 1 cup. Strain the juice if you prefer a smoother finish.
3. Mix the Base
   In a large pitcher or mixing jug, combine:
   • 1 cup orange juice
   • 1 oz gin
   • 1 oz vodka
   • 1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional)

Stir gently until the sugar fully dissolves. Taste it—you can adjust the sweetness or spirit level here before adding the fizz.

4. Add the Sparkle
   Slowly pour in 1 cup of Cava. Stir gently to mix—don’t overdo it, or you’ll lose the bubbles that make this Spanish cocktail so lively.
5. Serve Over Ice
   Fill serving glasses with ice cubes and pour the Agua de Valencia over the top. For a touch of flair, garnish with a slice of orange or a bit of zest.

Quick Tip:
Making a bigger batch for a party? Just multiply the ingredients, but hold off on adding the Cava until right before serving to keep the fizz fresh and fun.

With just a few minutes of effort, you’ve got a homemade cocktail recipe that’s festive, flavorful, and fabulously simple. Ready to level it up? Let’s talk tips and tasty variations next.

Pro Tips and Variations

Whether you’re making Agua de Valencia for the first time or looking to put your own spin on this refreshing Spanish cocktail, these tips and variations will help you get the most out of every glass.

 Pro Tips for the Perfect Pour

• Use Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice
  Freshly squeezed Valencia oranges are the gold standard. Their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor make a huge difference. If using store-bought juice, go for cold-pressed or no-pulp varieties with no added sugar.
• Balance Is Key
  If you prefer a lighter cocktail, you can easily reduce the amount of vodka or gin. Want something stronger for a festive evening? Go ahead and bump it up slightly—but keep the Cava ratio steady to maintain the bubbles.
• Chill Before Mixing
  A cold base means less ice, and less ice means less dilution. Keep your Cava, juice, and spirits chilled until you’re ready to mix.
• Stir Gently, Don’t Shake
  This isn’t the time to pull out the cocktail shaker. Stirring keeps the sparkling wine bubbly and the flavors nicely blended without going flat.

 Easy Variations to Try

• Tropical Twist
  Swap out half of the orange juice for fresh pineapple or mango juice for a fruity, beachy spin.
• Berry Citrus Punch
  Muddle a few fresh raspberries or strawberries in the pitcher before mixing. They’ll add color and a subtle berry note that complements the citrus beautifully.
• Low-Alcohol Version
  Skip the vodka and gin, and use a touch more juice and Cava for a lighter, brunch-friendly version.
• Mocktail Agua de Valencia
  Going alcohol-free? Use sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine in place of Cava, and skip the spirits. It still delivers those zesty citrus vibes—just without the buzz.

Feel free to play around with ratios and ingredients until you find your perfect balance. That’s the beauty of a drink like Agua de Valencia—it’s just as fun to make as it is to sip. Ready to serve? Let’s talk presentation and pairings next!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Agua de Valencia, let’s talk about how to serve it so your guests (or just you!) can enjoy it to the fullest.

Presentation Tips for Maximum Impact

• Use Elegant Glassware
  Serve this sparkling citrus cocktail in tall, slender glasses like flute glasses or Collins glasses. This helps showcase the bubbles and keeps the drink chilled longer.
• Garnish with Style
  A simple slice of orange or a twist of orange zest adds a pop of color and enhances the fresh citrus aroma. For a little extra flair, drop in a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint.
• Keep It Cold
  Serve over plenty of ice cubes, but not so much that the flavors get watered down. Large ice cubes melt slower and keep your drink perfectly chilled.

 Food Pairing Ideas

Agua de Valencia pairs beautifully with a variety of light and flavorful dishes—perfect for brunch, appetizers, or casual gatherings:

• Spanish Tapas
  Think patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and Manchego cheese. The citrusy bubbles cut through rich, savory flavors effortlessly.
• Seafood Dishes
  Grilled shrimp, calamari, or a fresh seafood salad complement the drink’s bright and refreshing notes.
• Light Salads
  Citrus or mixed green salads with a tangy vinaigrette echo the cocktail’s fresh flavors.

 Occasion Inspiration

This cocktail shines at celebrations—whether it’s a weekend brunch, a summer party, or just a casual evening with friends. Its festive sparkle and approachable flavor make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Serve your Agua de Valencia with confidence, knowing it brings a touch of authentic Spanish nightlife right to your home. Cheers!

Conclusion

There you have it—Agua de Valencia, a truly delightful Spanish cocktail that’s easy to make, wonderfully refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients like fresh Valencia orange juice, Cava, gin, and vodka, you can bring a taste of Spain right into your home.

This sparkling citrus drink not only brightens up your gatherings but also offers plenty of room for personalization—whether you prefer it sweeter, stronger, or even alcohol-free. Plus, its effortless preparation makes it a fantastic go-to cocktail for both beginners and seasoned mixologists alike.

So next time you want to impress your guests or simply treat yourself, remember this recipe. The vibrant flavors and lively bubbles of Agua de Valencia are guaranteed to lift your spirits and add a little sparkle to your day. Cheers to creating joyful moments, one refreshing sip at a time!

FAQs About Agua de Valencia

Got questions about making or enjoying Agua de Valencia? You’re not alone! Here are some answers to the most common queries to help you master this refreshing Spanish cocktail.

If you have more questions or want tips for variations, just ask! Making Agua de Valencia is all about enjoying the process and sharing a little taste of Spain with your friends and family.