Your Guide to Spanish Wines and Beverages at Harborne’s El Buen Gusto
Have you ever sat down in a Spanish restaurant and wondered which wine to order with your meal? For many diners in Harborne, choosing the right bottle or beverage can feel overwhelming. With so many varieties – from crisp cavas to deep Riojas – the options can be both exciting and daunting.
At El Buen Gusto, we believe dining should be a complete experience, blending food, drink and atmosphere into something memorable. Choosing the right Spanish wine or beverage is a simple way to transform an evening out into something extraordinary.
This guide explores the essentials of Spanish wines and drinks, why they matter to Birmingham’s local dining scene, and how you can enjoy them right here on Harborne High Street.
Why Spanish Wines and Beverages Matter
Spanish cuisine is rooted in tradition and flavour. Dishes like tapas and paella are designed for sharing, celebration and conversation. To truly experience them, they should be paired with authentic Spanish beverages.
For diners in Harborne and across Birmingham, our Spanish drinks provide:
- Authenticity: They deliver a true taste of Iberia without leaving the UK.
- Exploration: Spain is one of the world’s top three wine producers, with regions offering everything from refreshing whites to robust reds.
- Atmosphere: Sharing sangria or raising a glass of cava instantly creates a social, celebratory mood.
- Value: Spanish wines are known globally for their balance of quality and affordability, meaning guests can enjoy premium experiences without overspending.
In short, Spanish wines don’t just complement the food – they elevate the entire evening.
Key Insights into Spanish Wines and Beverages
When it comes to enjoying Spanish food, the drinks are just as important as the dishes. At El Buen Gusto, our beverage list has been carefully curated to reflect Spain’s diverse regions, traditions and flavours. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll find on our menu – plus a few fun facts to bring your glass to life.
Sangria | A Classic Crowd-Pleaser
Sangria is one of Spain’s most recognisable exports-– a refreshing punch traditionally made with red wine, brandy and fresh fruit.
At El Buen Gusto, you’ll find:
- House Sangria – a vibrant mix of red wine, brandy, Cointreau and Fanta Lemon.
- El Buen Gusto Premium Sangria – elevated with vodka and Martini Bianco.
- Tisana (White Sangria) – cava-based, lighter and perfect for summer.
💡 Did you know? Sangria takes its name from sangre, the Spanish word for blood, because of its deep red colour. Today, there are many versions, including white and sparkling sangria.
Best with: Tapas for sharing, especially chorizo, cheese boards and patatas bravas.
Rioja & Other Red Wines | Spain’s Signature Strength
Rioja, from northern Spain, is world-famous for smooth, versatile reds aged in oak barrels. Our Rioja Tunante Tinto is a customer favourite for its bold fruit aromas and vibrant colour.
Other wines include:
- Amoranza Tempranillo Garnacha – silky smooth, with plum and spice.
- Melea Bush Vine Monastrell – berry-forward, with hints of strawberry and plum.
- Misiva Ribera del Duero Roble – a full-bodied, elegant choice with spice.
💡 Fun fact: Spain has more land under vine than any other country in the world, and Tempranillo – the grape behind Rioja – is the nation’s most planted variety.
Best with: Meat paellas, lamb chops, jamón and manchego cheese.
White Wines | Crisp and Refreshing
Spanish whites are increasingly popular for their freshness and food-friendly style. At El Buen Gusto, our list includes:
- Amoranza Verdejo – light and zesty, great as an aperitif.
- Monopole Rioja Blanco – one of Spain’s oldest white wine brands, with floral and fruity notes.
- Meu Albariño Rías Baixas – a seafood lover’s dream, with aromas of stone fruit.
💡 Did you know? Albariño grapes grow near Spain’s Atlantic coast, where the sea breeze gives the wine its crisp, saline character.
Best with: Seafood paella, calamari, garlic prawns and vegetarian tapas.
Rosé Wines | Fruity & Versatile
Rosé (or rosado in Spanish) offers the fruitiness of red wine with the freshness of white. On our menu:
- Amoranza Garnacha Rosé – juicy with plum and red berries.
- Finca Azabache Rioja Rosado – refreshing, with strawberry and tropical fruit notes.
💡 Fun fact: Rosé is hugely popular in Spain, especially in summer. Rioja even produces rosé wines with the same Tempranillo grapes used for reds.
Best with: Light tapas, salads, grilled chicken or seafood.
Cava | Spain’s Sparkling Star
Spain’s answer to Champagne, cava is produced mainly in Catalonia. At El Buen Gusto, we serve Marques de la Sardana Cava Brut, a crisp sparkling wine with fine bubbles.
💡 Did you know? Cava was first produced in 1872 in Catalonia, and today around 95% of all cava still comes from this region. Unlike Champagne, which can only be made in one area of France, cava can be produced across several Spanish regions – but it must follow strict traditional methods to earn the name.
Best with: Celebrations, aperitifs, or paired with salty tapas like olives and anchovies.
Beers, Ciders & Cocktails | Beyond the Vineyard
For those who prefer hops to grapes, our drinks menu also includes:
- Spanish beers such as Alhambra and Estrella Damm, known for their smooth, refreshing style.
- Maeloc ciders, crafted in Galicia, including apple and strawberry flavours.
And if you’re in the mood for something a little stronger, our cocktails range from classics like Mojito and Bellini to a rich Espresso Martini – ideal for evenings on Harborne High Street. You can view our full drinks menu here. (add link once drinks menu is uploaded)
💡 Fun fact: Beer is Spain’s most popular alcoholic drink, with Spaniards drinking more cerveza per person than wine. Tapas bars across Madrid and Seville often serve small beers, or cañas, with every order.
FAQs About Spanish Wines
Q. Do Spanish wines only pair well with Spanish food?
A. No. While they’re a natural fit with tapas and paella, Spanish wines also work with classic British favourites like roast chicken, lamb or fish dishes.
Q. Is sangria always made with red wine?
A. Not always. White sangria (sangria blanca) uses white wine for a lighter, fruitier twist – a refreshing option for warmer weather.
Q. Are Spanish wines expensive?
A. Not at all. Spain is recognised as one of the best countries for affordable quality wines. At El Buen Gusto, we stock a range of wines that deliver premium flavour at great value.
How El Buen Gusto Brings Spanish Drinks to Life in Harborne
At El Buen Gusto, we curate our drinks menu to complement our food and to reflect the traditions of Spain. Every wine, beer or soft drink has been chosen with care.
We recommend:
- Starting with sangria alongside tapas.
- Choosing a Rioja or Albariño with your paella.
- Celebrating with cava when the occasion calls for it.
Our friendly staff are always happy to guide you, whether you’re new to Spanish wines or a seasoned enthusiast.
H3: Supporting Harborne with Authentic Experiences
We’re more than a restaurant – we’re part of the Harborne community. From participating in events like the Christmas Light-Up to welcoming locals during weekday lunches, our aim is to create a space where everyone feels at home.
Our independence means we’re not tied to a chain. Instead, we focus on authenticity, personal service and consistency. Every glass poured reflects our passion for bringing Spain to Birmingham.
With a 4.6-star rating on Google, El Buen Gusto is recognised for authentic Spanish flavours, hearty portions and warm hospitality. Our loyal guests often return week after week, reflecting the consistency and care we bring to every dish.
Ready to discover your new favourite Spanish drink? Join us on Harborne High Street for a warm welcome, authentic cuisine and the perfect glass to match your meal.
Visit us:
El Buen Gusto
73 High Street
Harborne, Birmingham
B17 9NS
Opening Hours:
Tuesday–Thursday: 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Friday–Saturday: 12:00pm – 9:30pm
Sunday: 12:00pm – 8:00pm
(Monday: Closed)
Follow us on Social media:
