I absolutely love the Basque Country in Northern Spain. The Basque culture plays an important role in that region of Spain. Therefore, if you plan on visiting the Basque Country, it is important you integrate yourself into the culture. This means that it is a must to try all of the traditional drinks of the Basque Country. The Basque drinks stand out with their unique flavors. From refreshing wines to innovative concoctions, Basque beverages are always a must try when in the region. After living in the Basque Country for a year, I have learned that the following are the best traditional drinks to try when in this part of Spain. I will also teach you essential Spanish phrases to use at the bar! Let’s get into it.
1. Txakoli (cha-coal-lee)
Txakoli (pronounced cha-coal-lee) is the quintessential Basque wine. This is a MUST when you are traveling the Basque Country. It is mainly known for its refreshing and slightly effervescent quality. This crisp white wine is made from indigenous grapes, grown in the coastal vineyards of the Basque Country. The main regions are Getaria, Zarautz, and Aia. Getaria is a great day trip from San Sebastian if you are looking to tour a vineyard! One of the most fascinating aspects of Txakoli is the traditional way it’s poured. Locals pour it from a great height—often at least a foot or more above the glass—so that it aerates as it hits the glass. The first time I drank Txakoli was at a festival in Bilbao and I did not pour it from high above. A local had to advise me on the proper way of pouring it. Be sure to tilt your glass and slowly raise the bottle as you pour it into your cup. This will impress the locals and help show that you studied their traditional ways before traveling there! Generally, Txakoli is enjoyed during celebratory events, seafood meals, and pintxo gatherings, as its bright acidity and citrus notes perfectly complement the fresh dishes of the region. Whether you’re savoring it with grilled fish or enjoying it at a Basque fiesta, this wine is a must-try for any visitor!
2. Marianito (ma-ree-ah-nee-toh)
A beloved pre-dinner drink in the Basque Country, the Marianito (pronounced ma-ree-ah-nee-toh) is a classic aperitif that tantalizes the palate. Made with equal parts sweet red vermouth and carbonated water, this cocktail is often garnished with a lemon twist or an olive to give it an extra burst of flavor. In Spain, they constantly are finding creative ways to eat olives. Personally, this particular drink was not the one for me as I am not a fan of vermouth. Marianito’s have a bittersweet profile which makes it perfect before meals. Traditionally, Marianitos are enjoyed in social settings, often in pintxo bars across Bilbao and San Sebastián. Locals enjoy this drink as they chat with friends, moving from bar to bar, indulging in small bites and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Basque hospitality. This is a classic cocktail that is another must try for a night out in any of the Basque regions.
3. Kalimotxo (cal-ee-mot-cho)
Kalimotxo (pronounced cal-ee-mot-cho) is a fun and festive drink that blends red wine with coke/cola! Personally, I have never been a big soda drinker so this one is less appealing to me. Generally, this was a common drink that my local friends ordered at the bar. In America, it is common that we have a rum and coke while in the Basque Country, they have red wine and coke. It is quite common in Spain for there mixed drinks to have wine rather than a vodka. While this combination might seem unconventional, it has gained popularity for its refreshing and easy-to-drink nature. Kalimotxo originated in the 1970s during a festival in the Basque Country. The bartenders mixed cola with red wine to cover up the taste of a batch of wine that had gone bad. Since then, it has become a cultural staple. This is generally enjoyed during festivals, concerts, and large social gatherings. Kalimotxo is best served in large plastic cups, making it a go-to for laid-back, lively celebrations. This is a great drink to have when out in the town in Northern Spain!
4. Pitilingorri (pee-tee-leen-gor-ree)
Pitilingorri (pronounced pee-tee-leen-gor-ree) is another playful Basque drink that combines red wine with orange soda, usually Fanta. The drink’s name loosely translates to “orange-red” due to its vibrant color, and its fruity flavor. This is my FAVORITE of the five drinks. Not only is the word really fun to say, but the drink is perfect for a refreshing, sweet drink. This is more popular among younger locals and visitors, but it is delicious. This simple Basque drink is often enjoyed at picnics, casual gatherings, and outdoor festivals. Similar to a Kalimotxo, Pitilingorri is a lighthearted drink, served in large cups and shared among friends. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet, easy-drinking beverage without too much formality. Be sure to try it at one of the many Basque street festivals, where it’s a crowd favorite!
5. Sidra (see-drah)
Basque cider, or Sidra (pronounced see-drah), is another traditional drink with deep roots in the region’s culture. Unlike sweet commercial ciders, Basque Sidra is typically more sour and unfiltered, offering a complex flavor. Sidra is most famously produced in the regions of Astigarraga and Hernani, where cider houses, known as sagardotegis, are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visiting a sagardotegi is an experience in itself: visitors can pour the cider straight from massive barrels. You hold your glass at an angle to catch the thin stream of cider. This method enhances the aeration, much like with Txakoli. Sidra is commonly enjoyed with hearty meals like grilled meats and cod omelets, and a visit to a sagardotegi is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Basque traditions!
Essential Spanish Phrases for Ordering Drinks
In the Basque Country, they speak Euskara or the Basque Language. This is the oldest living language in Europe and is very unique, as you may have learned from the drink names. Although I do have a blog all about basic Basque words, there are a few terms that you may deem important for your visit. Below are words and phrases that you could use while ordering drinks in the Basque Country:
- Aupa (ah-oo-pah) or Kaixo (kai-sho) – Common Basque greetings, similar to saying “hello.”
- Un Txakoli, por favor. (oon cha-ko-lee por fah-vor) – To order a glass of Txakoli, simply say “Un Txakoli.” In the Basque Country, it’s typical to just name the drink without extra words like “copa.”
- Un Kalimotxo. (oon cal-ee-mot-cho) – When ordering Kalimotxo, locals tend to keep it straightforward and just say, “Un Kalimotxo.”
- ¿Cuánto es? (kwan-toh es) – Use this phrase to ask, “How much?” when it’s time to pay.
- La cuenta, por favor. (lah kwen-tah por fah-vor) – While “La cuenta” is used to ask for the check after a meal, it’s less common when just ordering drinks at a bar. You usually pay for drinks right after ordering and oftentimes you do not need to ask for the check. If you are looking to be more formal, you can use this phrase.
- Salud (sah-lood) – Say this when you’re clinking glasses for a toast.
- On egin (on eh-geen) – A Basque phrase meaning “enjoy your meal,” used only while eating.
- Agur (ah-goor) – A casual Basque way to say “goodbye.”
Paying for Drinks in the Basque Country
In the Basque Country, it’s typical to pay for your drink right when you order it, especially at bars. This makes the process easier and quicker, so you’ll often hear people order their drink and settle the bill immediately.
Time to Try the Best Drinks of the Basque Country!
These 5 alcoholic drinks of the Basque Country are truly must try when visiting this part of the world. The Basque culture is incredible and so prominent in this area. I absolutely loved how much the locals embraced their culture, it definitely makes this region even more special. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Txakoli by the coast or enjoying a Pitilingorri at a local tavern, these beverages offer a true taste of the Basque Country’s heritage. And with these simple phrases, you’ll feel confident navigating the local bars and taverns, adding to the authenticity of your Basque adventure. Enjoy Northern Spain and be prepared to fall in love with the Basque Country!
-TTT
