Madrid: Spanish Drinks Workshop – Sangria, Tinto de Verano & Calimocho

Travelers craving a taste of Spain beyond the usual sights might find this Spanish drinks workshop a refreshing break. It offers a chance to learn how to craft some of Madrid’s most beloved beverages—sangria, tinto de verano, and calimocho—all in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re into cocktails or just want to get a feel for local traditions, this experience promises a blend of learning and fun.

What really draws us in are two standout points: first, the insider knowledge about each drink’s history and when to enjoy them, and second, the generous portions of drinks and tapas that make the experience feel value-packed. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that it’s a relatively short session—just 1.5 hours—so if you’re looking for a deeper dive, you might want to combine it with other activities.

This experience is well-suited for those who love social, hands-on activities, and want to get a genuine taste of Madrid’s drinking culture. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even going solo but enjoy learning about local customs, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Learn to make authentic Spanish drinks in a friendly workshop setting.
• Enjoy larger-than-expected portions of drinks and tapas, making it good value.
• Discover the cultural background of each beverage, from history to best occasions.
• Flexible options for drinks — sangria, tinto de verano, and kalimotxo — cover the essentials.
• Ideal location close to Puerta del Sol, perfect for combining with sightseeing.
• Experienced guides who speak multiple languages and make the experience engaging.
• Tapas options such as Spanish omelette, croquettes, ham, and tomato toast enhance the tasting.
• Short but sweet 1.5-hour format fits well into a busy day of exploring Madrid.
• Accessible reservation options, with free cancellation and pay later flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Madrid Drinks Workshop

When we first looked into this Madrid-based experience, what immediately stood out was its focus on more than just sangria. So many similar workshops concentrate solely on one drink, but here, you’re invited to explore three classics—sangria, tinto de verano, and kalimotxo—giving you a broader taste of Spanish beverage culture.

The Location and Atmosphere

The workshop takes place in a prime spot, just a few minutes from Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s bustling heart. This means you can easily combine it with sightseeing or a walk through the city. The instructions are given at Calle Carretas 14, 2 A, on the second floor—an accessible spot that’s easy to find with coordinates provided.

The setting is casual and friendly, perfect for groups or solo travelers who want to learn without feeling overwhelmed. The environment encourages sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company, making the 1.5 hours fly by.

What You’ll Learn and Do

Unlike some classes that only teach you the how-to of making drinks, this experience also shares the story and customs behind each one. For example, you’ll learn that sangria is not just a single recipe but a collection of variations, each suited for different occasions.

You’ll get hands-on experience in crafting each drink, which means you’re not just passively watching but actively involved. This approach makes the experience more engaging and memorable, especially if you enjoy learning through doing.

The Drinks: Sangria, Tinto de Verano, and Calimocho

Sangria is often seen as the icon of Spanish beverages. Here, you’ll learn how to prepare its different variants, understanding what makes a good sangria and how to balance fruit, wine, and spirits. As one review highlights, “The class gave us a chance to be involved in the process,” which makes the drinks taste all the more special when you make them yourself.

Tinto de verano is a lighter, more refreshing alternative to sangria, typically made with red wine and lemon soda. It’s a staple during hot summer days and social gatherings. We loved that the guide explained when and how to best enjoy this drink, which is crucial because it’s often served as an easy, thirst-quenching option.

Calimocho (or kalimotxo) is a fun, popular drink among young people and in northern Spain, made with red wine and cola. It’s a surprisingly tasty combo, and you’ll appreciate how accessible and simple it is to prepare. One reviewer noted that younger family members enjoyed all the drinks even if they weren’t used to the taste of alcohol, which shows how approachable these beverages are.

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The Tapas

Adding tapas to the experience elevates it from a simple workshop to a well-rounded taste session. Options like Spanish omelette, croquettes, ham, and tomato toast are typical, hearty bites that pair wonderfully with the drinks. Reviewers appreciated the generous portions, mentioning they left feeling full and satisfied—definitely good value considering the overall experience.

Duration, Group Size, and Accessibility

At just 1.5 hours, this experience is short enough to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule while still providing a meaningful introduction to Madrid’s beverage culture. The group sizes are likely small to medium, fostering interaction and personalized attention. The guides are multilingual, speaking English, French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews emphasize good value for money, particularly because of the large portions of drinks and tapas. The inclusion of cultural stories adds an educational layer that makes the cost worthwhile.

The Review Experience

One reviewer from the US shared, “My family absolutely loved this activity. … the drink portions and tapas portions were much larger than I expected and great value for the cost.” Another mentioned how the class gave everyone a chance to participate in making drinks and learn about their origins, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This workshop suits adults who enjoy social activities, are curious about local customs, and want an interactive experience. It’s especially good for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of learning, tasting, and local insights.

If you’re traveling with children under 18 or have specific dietary restrictions, note that the experience is designed for adults, and the drinks contain alcohol. Pregnant women and wheelchair users might also find this experience less accessible, given the setting and nature of the activity.

The Sum Up

In the end, this Spanish drinks workshop in Madrid offers a lively and authentic glimpse into the city’s beverage culture. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines learning, tasting, and socializing – all in a convenient central location. The generous servings, friendly guides, and delicious tapas make it worthwhile, especially for those eager to connect with local customs in a relaxed setting.

If you’re looking for something different from the usual sightseeing and want a fun, immersive activity that leaves you with new skills and tasty memories, this workshop is a smart pick. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy Madrid’s spirit—literally and figuratively—with a group of fellow enthusiasts.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
Since the workshop involves alcohol, it’s tailored for adults who can consume alcohol. Specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, so if you have allergies or restrictions, you might want to contact the provider directly beforehand.

How long does the workshop last?
It runs for approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity that fits into a busy schedule.

Are the guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later.

Is the experience family-friendly?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18, as alcohol is involved. It’s not suitable for children or pregnant women.

What’s included in the experience?
Participants learn to make three drinks and can enjoy tapas, with portions described as quite generous. The experience also includes cultural insights into each beverage.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Details about group size aren’t explicitly provided, but the setting suggests small to medium groups for a more personalized experience.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since the focus is on alcoholic beverages, non-drinkers might find limited options unless special arrangements are made—it’s best to check with the provider.

Where exactly does the experience take place?
At Calle Carretas 14, 2 A in central Madrid, a short walk from Puerta del Sol.

If you’re ready to add a flavorful twist to your Madrid trip, this workshop could be the perfect choice—fun, informative, and tasty!

You can check availability for your dates here: