What is Agua de Valencia?

Agua de Valencia (Valencian Water) is a popular cocktail originating from Valencia, Spain. It's typically made with a base of Cava (Spanish sparkling wine) and freshly squeezed Valencian orange juice, fortified with gin and vodka, and often includes a touch of sugar. It's known for being refreshing but deceptively potent.

What does Agua de Valencia taste like?

It tastes primarily like fresh orange juice with the bubbly effervescence of Cava. The gin and vodka add alcoholic strength but are usually well-integrated, contributing subtle botanical notes rather than overpowering the orange flavor. It can range from slightly tart to sweet, depending on the oranges used and added sugar.

How strong is Agua de Valencia?

It can be quite strong, despite its easy-drinking nature. The combination of Cava (around 11-12% ABV) plus gin and vodka (around 40% ABV each) results in a potent mix. Strength varies depending on the recipe's ratios, so drink responsibly. It's often served in pitchers, making it easy to consume more than intended.

Is Agua de Valencia safe to drink?

Yes, it's generally safe when prepared in reputable establishments. The main considerations are responsible alcohol consumption due to its potential strength and ensuring fresh orange juice is used. Choose clean bars and cafes. Avoid dubious street vendors or suspiciously cheap offers.

Where was Agua de Valencia invented?

Agua de Valencia was created in the 1950s at the Café Madrid de Valencia by Constante Gil. It gained popularity throughout the city in the following decades and is now considered Valencia's signature cocktail.

Is Agua de Valencia vegetarian / vegan / gluten-free?

It is vegetarian and gluten-free (spirits and Cava are GF). It's typically not vegan because Cava may be clarified using non-vegan fining agents (like isinglass or egg whites). Vegan versions are possible if certified vegan Cava and spirits are used, but this isn't standard.

Agua de Valencia in Spain: Smart Drinking Tips | Valencia

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Description

Valencia is the definitive home of Agua de Valencia. It's readily available and widely consumed in countless bars, cafes, and restaurants across the city, from historic spots like Cafe Madrid de Valencia to modern terraces and neighborhood bars. Trying it here is a quintessential Valencian experience.

Dietary Information

Vegetarian

Vegan Optional

This dish is gluten-free

Serving information

Serving style

Most commonly served by the pitcher ('jarra') for groups, but also available by the glass ('copa'). Served chilled in wide cocktail glasses, garnished with an orange slice.

Quick facts

Best times

Afternoon ('Tardeo'), Evening / Night

Bars open from late morning/midday until very late (1 AM - 3 AM or later).

Seasonal Availability

Available and popular year-round.

Safety Tips

What to Look For

Made with freshly squeezed orange juice ('zumo natural')
Ensures best flavor and quality. Avoid places using bottled or concentrated juice.
Served well-chilled
The cocktail should be very cold for optimal taste and refreshment.
Prepared in a clean bar environment
Good hygiene practices by the staff and clean serving ware are essential.
Transparent pricing
Prices per glass and pitcher should be clearly indicated on the menu.
Balanced flavor profile
A well-made version shouldn't taste overwhelmingly of cheap alcohol; the orange and Cava should shine.

What to avoid

Drinking excessively due to deceptive taste
The sweet, fruity flavor masks the high alcohol content. Pace yourself and be aware of its strength.
Suspiciously cheap offers
Extremely low prices might indicate use of low-quality spirits, artificial juice, or improper preparation.
Places using bottled or artificial orange juice
Significantly impacts the authentic flavor and quality.
Pre-mixed batches sitting out at room temperature
Best prepared fresh or kept well-chilled before serving.
Drinking on an empty stomach
Consuming food alongside helps manage the alcohol effects.

Price information

Price range

€4,00 - €8,00 EUR

~ $4,40 - $8,80 USD

~ £3,48 - £6,96 GBP

Budget tips

Price per glass ('copa') is usually €4-8.
Pitchers ('jarras') for sharing cost around €15-25 and are more economical for groups.
Prices might be slightly higher in prime tourist spots (e.g., near the Cathedral) than in local neighborhoods.
Some bars offer it as part of a drinks deal.

Value indicators

Guaranteed use of fresh Valencian orange juice.
Often made with local Cava.
Authentic recipe proportions.
Served widely and understood by all bartenders.

Afternoon, Evening

Vendor Tips

Always specify 'zumo natural' if you want to be absolutely sure about fresh juice.
Ordering a 'jarra' is the most traditional way for groups.
Many places have their 'secret' slight variations; try a few spots!
Enjoy the social atmosphere often associated with sharing a pitcher.

How to Order

A pitcher of Agua de Valencia, please.

Una jarra de Agua de Valencia, por favor.

OO-nah HAH-rrah deh AH-gwah deh vah-LEN-thee-ah, por fah-VOR.

A glass of Agua de Valencia, please.

Una copa de Agua de Valencia, por favor.

OO-nah KOH-pah deh AH-gwah deh vah-LEN-thee-ah, por fah-VOR.

Is the orange juice freshly squeezed?

¿Es zumo de naranja natural?

¿Es THOO-moh deh nah-RAHN-hah nah-too-RAHL?

How much is a pitcher / a glass?

¿Cuánto cuesta la jarra / la copa?

KWAN-toh KWES-tah lah HAH-rrah / lah KOH-pah?

Regional Variations

House Recipes (Recetas de la Casa)
While the core ingredients are consistent, nearly every bar has its own subtle tweak to the ratios or sweetness.

Cultural context

History

The cocktail was created in 1959 at the Café Madrid de Valencia (which still exists) by its owner, Constante Gil. Initially made for a group of Basque travelers tired of ordering their usual drinks, it remained a local secret for years before gaining wider popularity in Valencia during the 1970s nightlife scene. It's now considered an emblematic drink of the city.

Local significance

Agua de Valencia is more than just a drink; it's a symbol of Valencian social life, hospitality, and local pride in its oranges and Cava.

Eating customs

Typically shared among friends from a pitcher.
Sipped and enjoyed over conversation.
Consumed year-round, regardless of the weather.