A journey through the diverse tastes of Spanish Alcohol, Spirits and Cocktails
Spanish Spirits and the Cocktails That Made Them Famous
Spain is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and fine dining. In recent years it has also become a mixology epicenter, calling itself home to several top-rated restaurants and some of the finest mixology and cocktail bars in the world.
Cocktail culture may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Spain. Spain is known for its wines, Cava and Rioja. Spanish Vermouths have become more popular with Americans at aperitivo hour and until recently little was known about one of the only exclusively Spanish alcoholic spirits – hierbas.
Hierbas, also known as hierbas ibicencas, is a blend of herbs and spices indigenous to the Balearic Islands, macerated into a neutral base spirit. It has been a Spanish stable since the 1500s. Some recipes even maintain a regional protection to Ibiza or Majorca.
Hierbas was initially created by monks who sought to use local herbs and botanicals for medicinal purposes. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, blending anise, fennel, rosemary, thyme, and other local herbs to create a unique and aromatic spirit that maintains its light drinkability in the hot summer months.
For exotic treats and exceptional craftsmanship, take a trip to Paradiso Barcelona, one of the top-rated bars in the world. But you need not leave home to partake in some Spanish classics like Sangria, Pomada, Rebujito and Butano.
Some Classic & Modern Spanish Cocktails
Pomada
Originating on the Balearic Island of Menorca, the traditional Pomoda recipe calls for a ratio of one part gin to three parts fresh lemonade or lemon soda. You can opt for a mix of freshly squeezed lemon juice and soda or a canned lemonade like Fanta.
For beach days, mix the ingredients in an empty 1.5-liter water bottle or a 2-liter soda bottle and place it in the freezer. For a slushy texture, take the bottle out before it's fully frozen and shake to create ice crystals.
Alternatively, you can let it freeze completely and remove it a couple of hours before serving.
Rebujito
In Sevilla or other parts of Andalusia, the rebujito is on every menu and is essentially sherry and sprite with a mint garnish.
- 2 ounces fino sherry
- 1/2 ounce lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce lime juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- Soda water to the top and garnish with lemon/lime wheels, mint sprig
Butano
The Butano originated fifty or so years ago Pamplona. The essential components are pacharán and orange soda. Noticing a theme here?
Common recipes call for only that. 4oz orange juice and 1oz Pacharán. If youre trying to get fancy, aerate the orange juice and add a better kick with 3/4oz of any bitter and 1/2oz of apple cider vinegar.
How to Serve Hierbas
Hierbas is commonly served in the Balearic Islands as a digestif, neat or chilled or shot in a chupito glass. Fine or Super Premium hierbas like Basbas can be mixed as the base spirit in cocktails or a modifier. We like Basbas as a Shakarito (shaken vigorously with ice), on the rocks (like a fine bourbon) or in the classic Basbas Cocktail (a spritz).
Modern Twist on Hierbas using Basbas
Unlike other hierbas, Basbas undergoes a proprietary aging process that gives it a more substantial feel and smoother taste making it one of the only mixable hierbas’ in the world.
That creates a lot of new and unique cocktail mixing opportunities.
Basbas has an herbal taste, a cinnamon/anise smell and a golden amber tone. It's also a little bit sweet. This combination of factors makes it a great replacement for many base spirits AND the sweetening component.
Professional mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike replace: whiskey and bourbon, tequila and rum and any sweetener with Basbas resulting in a net lower calorie and final cocktail with less sugar than it otherwise has.
For example, a Basbas Mojito contains only Basbas, Soda, Lime and Mint. It tastes just as refreshing as a traditional mojito but lighter and more floral because there is no added syrup.
Basbas is great as a Spritz, a Negroni, a floater on champagne and mixed with sour (sour mix) or smokey (mezcal).
Iconic Spanish Hierbas Alcohol Brands
At Basbas, we are proud to continue the tradition of crafting premium hierbas. Our spirit captures the essence of Ibiza, blending handpicked local herbs to create a refreshing and aromatic experience. Each sip of Basbas embodies the spirit of the island, offering a taste of its rich history and vibrant culture.
Basbas is the most awarded hierbas in the world with more than 12 gold medals and best in class awards in recent years.
Another renowned name in the world of Hierbas, Familia Marí Mayans has been producing high-quality spirits since 1880. Their dedication to preserving traditional methods while producing in bulk make it the economical option.
The Timeless Appeal of Spanish Vermouth
Vermouth, a fortified wine infused with various botanicals, has a storied history that dates back to ancient Greece. However, it was in the late 18th century that Vermouth as we know it today began to take shape, particularly in Italy and France. Spain quickly adopted this delightful beverage, making it an integral part of its culture and cuisine.
Spanish Vermouth is typically sweeter and more aromatic than its French and Italian counterparts, often enjoyed as an aperitif. It is infused with a variety of botanicals, including wormwood, which gives Vermouth its characteristic bitterness.
Famous Spanish Vermouth Brands
Yzaguirre: Established in 1884, Yzaguirre is one of Spain's most esteemed Vermouth producers. Their Vermouth is known for its rich, complex flavors and smooth finish, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.
Perucchi: Founded in 1876, Perucchi is Spain's oldest Vermouth brand. Their artisanal approach and dedication to quality have earned them a loyal following, with their Vermouth often regarded as a benchmark for excellence.
Basbas: The Spirit of Ibiza
At Basbas, we are dedicated to preserving the heritage of Spanish spirits while infusing them with contemporary flair. Our Hierbas is crafted with love and respect for tradition, using only the finest local herbs to create a spirit that is both authentic and innovative.
As we enter the US market with our Limited Release, we invite you to experience the magic of Basbas. Each bottle tells a story of Ibiza's rich cultural tapestry, offering a taste that is both timeless and unforgettable.
Spain's alcoholic beverages, particularly Hierbas and Vermouth, are more than just drinks—they are a testament to the country's rich history and vibrant culture. From the ancient monastic recipes of Hierbas to the sophisticated blends of Vermouth, these spirits continue to captivate and inspire.
We at Basbas are proud to be part of this tradition, bringing the essence of Ibiza to your glass.
Stay tuned for more updates on our Limited Release in the US and join us in celebrating the spirit of Spanish craftsmanship.