A classic cocktail for when the sun goes down and temperatures rise, Agua de Valencia or Valencian Water, was invented in 1959 in the Café de Madrid bar in Valencia by Constante Gil. Showcasing the sunshine infused oranges of Valencia, Spanish gin, vodka and Spanish Cava, it's a refreshing drink oozing with history, opportunity, and as with all cocktails, some would say, pure luck.

According to the book, 'Valencia Noche' by María Ángeles Arazo, the Agua de Valencia cocktail was brought to life by Constante Gil as a result of a request by a group of Basque travellers who happened upon the Café de Madrid bar, asking for the house's best sparkling wine. Bored of the same old carbonated sparkling wines, they asked for something different. Of course, this was the perfect opportunity to show off the best of Spain's sparkling wine portfolio with a Valencian orange twist.... and so, Agua de Valencia entered the official history books in black and white print format.

It wasn't until the 1970s that it rose to the fame which it enjoys today. A winner amongst locals and visitors alike, Agua de Valencia is a must-try during your holidays in Valencia.

If you want to cool down on a hot day, try our recipe for Agua de Valencia. It's really quick and simple to make and serves four people. Ideal for drinks with friends or at a party, we recommend you use locally sourced, or freshly made orange juice for the ultimate in taste-appeal.

You will need:

200 ml of orange juice
50ml of Gin
50ml of Vodka
700 ml of Cava or another sparkling wine
A pinch of sugar

Preparation method:

Pour all of the ingredients into a jug or pitcher and stir to blend. Chill for one to two hours before serving with ice in individual glasses. The best glasses to serve Agua de Valencia in are cocktail glasses or hi-ball glasses.

Serve as an aperitif or enjoy on a balmy night from the terrace.

Alternatively, if you are in town for Las Fallas, drink Agua de Valencia to cool down when the party really gets going.

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