When summer arrives, few things are as satisfying as a cool, refreshing, and easy-to-prepare drink. Portugal has a long tradition of liqueurs and spirits that can serve as excellent bases for cocktails, especially when combined with ice, citrus, and other fresh ingredients.
Among Portuguese options, Amarguinha stands out for its bitter almond character and its versatility in simple combinations. But it is not the only one: Port and Tonic and Portuguese sangria are also excellent choices to enjoy during the warmer months.
In this article, we have gathered some of the best Portuguese cocktails for the summer, with suggestions for different tastes and occasions.
6 Portuguese cocktails to enjoy this summer
1. Amarguinha Sour
The Amarguinha Sour is one of the most citrusy and balanced options for enjoying this Portuguese liqueur in the summer.
The combination of Amarguinha Original, lemon juice, and ice helps balance the bitter almond notes with the acidity of the citrus. The egg white provides a silkier texture and the characteristic foam of a sour.
If you want to find out how to prepare this and other cocktails with Amarguinha, check out our selection of the best cocktails with Amarguinha.
2. Amarguinha with ice and lemon
Sometimes, the best drink for summer is also the simplest.
The classic way to enjoy Amarguinha combines the liqueur with ice and a few drops of fresh lemon. The chill provides a more refreshing sensation, while the citrus helps enhance the almond notes.
3. Amarguinha and Tonic
If you are looking for a refreshing Portuguese drink for warmer days, the combination of Amarguinha and tonic water is an excellent alternative.
The tonic adds bubbles and a touch of bitterness that complements the characteristic notes of bitter almond. For a balanced result, it is better to use a dry, not-too-sweet tonic.
4. Amarguinha Cream with coffee
For those who prefer a creamier cocktail, Amarguinha Cream with coffee offers a different combination.
The bitter almond notes of the cream meet the intense character of espresso, creating a smooth drink with a slight bitter contrast. It is a particularly interesting option to finish a meal or enjoy a relaxing moment on a summer day.
5. Port and Tonic
Port and Tonic is one of the simplest combinations to enjoy the character of Port wine in a fresh and light way.
Port wine adds intensity and fruity notes, while the tonic provides freshness and bubbles. Ice and citrus round off a drink that is especially well-suited for hot days.
6. Portuguese sangria
Sangria is another of those perfect drinks to share during the summer. Its combination of wine, fruit, ice, and citrus creates a fresh drink that is easy to adapt to different occasions.
To give it a more Portuguese character, you can use a wine produced in Portugal and fresh seasonal fruits.
Why does Amarguinha pair so well with summer cocktails?
Amarguinha has a characteristic bitter almond profile that works especially well when combined with fresh ingredients.
Citrus, such as lemon, helps to balance the liqueur's profile, while ice provides freshness and softens the drink's intensity. Tonic water, in turn, adds a slightly bitter contrast and a lighter texture.
Furthermore, Amarguinha does not need many ingredients to shine. Simple combinations can be enough to create a balanced drink, which is especially practical when looking for cocktails that are easy to prepare at home.
What is the best Portuguese cocktail for the summer?
The choice depends on the type of drink you are looking for:
| If you're looking for... | Try... |
| A citrus cocktail | Amarguinha Sour |
| A simple and refreshing option | Amarguinha with ice and lemon |
| A fizzy drink | Amarguinha and Tonic |
| A creamy cocktail | Amarguinha Cream with coffee |
| A refreshing Portuguese classic | Port and Tonic |
| A drink to share | Portuguese sangria |
If you prefer citrusy and balanced flavors, the Amarguinha Sour is an excellent option for the summer. To enjoy the flavor of Amarguinha in a simpler way, you can opt for Amarguinha with ice and lemon. And if you are looking for a different combination, Amarguinha and Tonic provides a fresh and light profile, perfect for hotter days.
If you want to discover other ways to enjoy the Cream range, you can check out our recipes with Amarguinha Cream
