Agua de València: the essence of our land
Much more than a cocktail: it is the taste of Valencia bottled in a pitcher. The freshness of orange and the elegance of cava under the Mediterranean moon.
What is Agua de València?
Agua de València is the city's iconic cocktail. Famous for its freshness, it is a tribute to our land that shines under the Mediterranean moon. Its recipe combines plenty of local orange juice, at its exact point of ripeness, with splashes of vodka, gin, and cava from Requena or Utiel. The result is a vibrant, balanced, and social drink, ideal for enjoying the best Valencian "tardeo" (afternoon drinks).
History of a Night in 1959: Café Madrid
It all began one night in 1959 at the emblematic Café Madrid de València. A group of travelers challenged the owner, Constante Gil, to create something new. Thus, Agua de Valencia was born: a vibrant combination that balances the acidity of our best oranges with the elegance of cava and the strength of spirits.
Today it is the international symbol of our "tardeo" and our nightlife.
Where to toast with Agua de València: The best pubs
From historic venues to modernist gems. A route through the most emblematic corners to enjoy the cocktail under our moon with Designation of Origin.
Café Madrid
Visit the sacred place where the legend was born in 1959. A bohemian and elegant space ideal for tasting the original recipe of Agua de Valencia.
Let's toast!
Café de las Horas
Neo-Baroque gem near the Cathedral. Enjoy your pitcher in a literary and magical setting under that moon with Designation of Origin.
The neo-Baroque gem
Mi Cub
Located in the majestic Colón Market. Enjoy the local cocktail surrounded by the finest modernist architecture and local produce.
Mi Cub
Café Lisboa
A classic in the Plaza del Doctor Collado. Its terrace is the perfect spot to watch the life of the Carmen neighborhood go by with a nice, cold drink.
Café Sant Jaume
Located in a former 19th-century pharmacy on Cavallers street. Tradition and flavor in one of the most authentic corners of Valencia.
Christopher Lee
A temple for classic cinema nostalgics. A cocktail bar with soul where Agua de València is served among legends of the silver screen.
The art of the mix: how to make Agua de València
The secret of this mix lies in the quality of the ingredients. Learn how to make at home the cocktail that pays tribute to our Huerta and the moon with Designation of Origin.
Ingredients
- Valencian Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed and at its optimal point of ripeness.
- Cava: Those produced in the Comunitat Valenciana (such as those from Requena) are ideal.
- Vodka and Gin: Quality spirits to provide body and balance.
- Ice: Plenty of it to maintain a glacial temperature.
- Sugar: Only if the oranges are not sweet enough.
Preparation
- Squeeze the oranges until you get a fresh, abundant juice.
- Add splashes of Cava, vodka, and gin to taste. The key is the harmony between the citrus and the alcohol.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Always serve in a pitcher with plenty of ice. Stir gently (never shake) so that the Agua de València retains its bubbles and freshness.
- Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator.
Become an expert mixologist
Do you prefer to see it in action? Don't miss our visual step-by-step guide to master the technique and surprise your guests with the authentic Agua de València recipe.
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