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Cocktail Maestro

Agua de Valencia

The Agua de Valencia is a sparkling, citrusy cocktail that perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Spain’s Mediterranean coast. Combining freshly squeezed orange juice with a lively blend of cava (Spanish sparkling wine), gin, and vodka, this punch-style drink is a celebration in a glass. Its effervescent, sunny flavor makes it the ideal choice for brunches, garden parties, and any occasion where you want to bring a little Valencian sunshine to your gathering.

10 minutesEasy1 serving
Agua de Valencia
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Fresh orange juice
    240 ml (8 oz)
    Preferably Valencian oranges, freshly squeezed
  • Cava (Spanish sparkling wine)
    360 ml (12 oz)
    Chilled, brut or semi-seco style
  • Gin
    60 ml (2 oz)
    Your favorite London Dry gin
  • Vodka
    60 ml (2 oz)
    A clean, neutral vodka
  • Sugar
    30 ml (1 oz)
    Optional, adjust to taste
  • Ice cubes
    30 ml (1 oz)
    As needed for serving
Tools Needed
  • Citrus juicer
  • Pitcher or mixing jug
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Champagne flutes or large wine glasses
Instructions
  1. Juice enough fresh oranges to yield 8 oz of juice. Strain to remove excess pulp if desired.

  2. In a large pitcher, combine the orange juice, gin, vodka, and sugar (if using). Stir well until the sugar dissolves.

  3. Add plenty of ice to the pitcher to chill the mixture.

  4. Pour in the chilled cava and gently stir to combine (avoid vigorous stirring to preserve the bubbles).

  5. Serve immediately in champagne flutes or large wine glasses, making sure each glass gets plenty of fizz and a bit of ice.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Bursting with fresh orange flavor and effervescent cava
  • Perfect for sharing—great as a pitcher cocktail
  • Simple to make but feels festive and luxurious
  • A taste of Spanish sunshine in every sip
  • Balanced and refreshing, not overly sweet or boozy
History & Origin

Agua de Valencia traces its origins back to the 1950s at Café Madrid in Valencia, Spain. The story goes that a group of travelers from the Basque Country, tired of their usual drinks, challenged bartender Constante Gil to create something new. Inspired by the region's world-famous oranges, he concocted this blend of citrus, spirits, and sparkling wine. The drink soon became a local legend, spreading from Valencian cafés to the rest of Spain and beyond. Today, Agua de Valencia is a symbol of Valencian hospitality and a fixture at lively Spanish celebrations.

Garnish

A slice or twist of fresh orange on the rim of each glass. The garnish adds a pop of color and a fragrant citrus aroma that enhances the first sip.

Nutrition Info

Approximate per serving (6 oz): 130 calories, 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, 0g fat. Contains alcohol; drink responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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