Limonada de León

Limonada de León is a traditional cocktail made with red wine, citrus fruit, sugar, and spices. It is traditionally enjoyed during the Holy Week (Semana Santa)—hence its alternative name: the Holy Week Lemonade. The basic recipe includes red wine, water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, but since this is an old, traditional beverage, many variations have been created throughout the years.

Common additions often include dry fruit such as raisins or dry figs, oranges, and sometimes spirits or liqueurs. The drink is a staple during Holy Week, and it is a mandatory beverage during cheerful local festivities. Many bars and restaurants in León create their signature limonadas, while many locals also prepare and drink homemade versions of this sweet wine cocktail.

This local specialty is also known as matar Judíos, an offensive name that translates as kill Jews. The argumentation for this name is often explained with the legend saying that sometime in the Middle Ages local Christians went to the Jewish quarter to have their revenge on the Jewish people, who they blamed for Jesus’ death.

To diverge them from their intention, the authorities allowed the sales of alcoholic drinks, and tavern owners served them their spiced wine beverage. Allegedly, the idea was a success, the Christians fell drunk, and the Jews were left safe. Regardless of tradition, this antisemitic expression should not be encouraged.