Russia is known for its strong, bold flavors, and while the country is famous for its vodka, it also has a rich tradition of non-alcoholic beverages that every tourist should experience. From refreshing fruit juices to hearty hot drinks, these beverages offer a unique glimpse into Russian culture, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re seeking something to cool down in the summer or warm up in the winter, Russia has a wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks that are both delicious and deeply embedded in its culinary traditions. Here’s a guide to the best Russian non-alcoholic drinks every tourist should try.
1. Kvass (Квас)
What Is It?
Kvass is one of Russia’s oldest and most beloved non-alcoholic beverages. This fermented drink is made from rye bread, water, sugar, and sometimes fruit, which gives it a slightly sour, tangy flavor. Kvass has a low alcohol content (usually less than 1%) due to the fermentation process, but it is still considered non-alcoholic by most standards. It’s a popular summer drink, often sold in bottles or from street vendors.
Why You Should Try It
Kvass is often described as a refreshing, slightly sour, and malty drink with hints of sweetness. It’s especially popular in the hot summer months and is commonly enjoyed as a thirst-quencher alongside meals or as a standalone drink. Kvass is rich in probiotics, thanks to the fermentation process, and is said to have various digestive benefits.
- Best For: Refreshing yourself on a hot day or as a unique accompaniment to Russian food like pirozhki or blini.
2. Russian Herbal Teas (Травяной чай)
What Is It?
Herbal tea is a staple in Russian homes, and Russians take their herbal blends seriously. Chamomile, lemon balm, rosehip, and Ivan Chai (fireweed tea) are among the most popular herbs used to make soothing, flavorful infusions. Many of these herbs are found in the wild in Russia and are often used in traditional medicine for their various health benefits.
Why You Should Try It
Russian herbal teas are both soothing and healthy, making them perfect for relaxation. Ivan Chai, in particular, is unique to Russia and is known for its calming properties and slightly sweet taste. Rosehip tea, often made from the wild rose plant, is packed with vitamin C, making it not only delicious but beneficial to your immune system.
- Best For: Relaxing after a long day, especially before bedtime, or if you’re feeling under the weather.
3. Mors (Морс)
What Is It?
Mors is a traditional Russian drink made from berries, usually cranberries, lingonberries, or blueberries, mixed with water and sugar. The berries are either boiled or mashed to release their flavors, and the drink is then sweetened to taste. Mors is typically served chilled and can be consumed as a refreshing beverage or used as a base for cocktails.
Why You Should Try It
Mors has a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet taste that highlights the natural flavors of the berries. It is a great drink for hot summer days and can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat or a healthy beverage, given its antioxidant-rich berry base. Mors is often homemade, which gives it an authentic, fresh taste.
- Best For: Cooling down in the summer, pairing with light snacks, or as a unique alternative to juices.
4. Uzvar (Узвар)
What Is It?
Uzvar is a traditional Russian beverage made by boiling dried fruits—typically apples, pears, and plums—with spices like cinnamon and sometimes honey. The result is a naturally sweet and fruity drink that’s comforting and aromatic. Uzvar can be served both hot and cold, making it versatile for any season.
Why You Should Try It
Uzvar has a rich, natural sweetness with a comforting depth from the dried fruits and spices. It’s a great drink to enjoy during colder months, as it has a warming, cozy quality. The drink is often served at family gatherings, particularly during holidays like Christmas and Easter, making it a perfect drink to immerse yourself in Russian traditions.
- Best For: A warming, comforting beverage during cold weather or as a naturally sweet alternative to sugary drinks.
5. Sbiten (Сбитень)
What Is It?
Sbiten is a traditional Russian hot drink that dates back to the Middle Ages. It’s made by boiling water with honey, spices (such as cinnamon, cloves, and ginger), and sometimes fruit or herbs. Sbiten was originally consumed as a medicinal drink to warm people up during the cold Russian winters, and it’s still enjoyed as a winter beverage today.
Why You Should Try It
Sbiten is a rich, spicy, and sweet drink that has a comforting, warming effect. It’s the perfect drink to try during winter or after a long day in the cold. The combination of honey and spices creates a soothing flavor profile that’s both sweet and aromatic. Sbiten is also thought to have health benefits due to its honey content and natural herbs.
- Best For: Enjoying during the winter months or as a soothing drink before bed.
6. Kvass with Fruit (Фруктовый квас)
What Is It?
While kvass is traditionally made from bread, there are various fruit kvass versions in Russia that are made from fruits like apples, pears, or cherries. These fruit-based kvass varieties are typically slightly sweeter and less tangy than the traditional bread kvass.
Why You Should Try It
Fruit kvass offers a lighter and more refreshing version of traditional kvass, while still maintaining the drink’s naturally fermented characteristics. The fruity flavor gives a refreshing sweetness, perfect for those who want to enjoy the classic kvass taste with a fruity twist. It’s also naturally carbonated, providing a fizzy sensation that makes it especially refreshing.
- Best For: A fruity, refreshing option on a warm day or for those who want to try a lighter version of kvass.
7. Varenye (Варенье)
What Is It?
While varenye typically refers to jam in Russia, it’s also used as a sweet drink in diluted form. It’s made by mixing fruit jam with water to create a sweet, refreshing drink. Different varieties of berry or fruit jam are used to make this beverage, from raspberry to strawberry or mixed fruit.
Why You Should Try It
Varenye, when diluted with water, offers a naturally sweet and fruity drink that’s perfect for hot days. It carries the vibrant flavors of the fruit jam, and it’s often consumed as a comforting drink with a meal or dessert. The drink is commonly served in Russian households and is especially popular during the summer months.
- Best For: A refreshing summer drink or as a unique beverage to enjoy with pastries or baked goods.
8. Sbir (Сбир)
What Is It?
Sbir is a traditional Russian drink that was popular in the countryside. It is made from mixing water, honey, and rye flour to create a sweet, slightly yeasty, and thick beverage. Some versions of Sbir also include herbal infusions for added flavor and medicinal benefits.
Why You Should Try It
Sbir is a drink that’s both hearty and refreshing, making it a unique offering for tourists interested in traditional Russian drinks. It offers a rich, sweet flavor with a slight depth from the rye flour, and it’s considered a drink that provides energy and refreshment. It is not as commonly found in cafes or stores but can be enjoyed in more rustic settings or traditional festivals.
- Best For: Trying something truly unique and historical, and perfect for those who want to explore traditional Russian beverages.
Conclusion
Russia offers a wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks that are as rich in history and tradition as they are in flavor. From the fermented kvass to the sweet and warming sbiten, these beverages provide a unique and authentic way to experience Russian culture. Each drink has its own story, tied to Russian hospitality, healing traditions, or seasonal rituals, and they offer tourists a flavorful way to connect with the country’s heritage. Whether you’re visiting during the winter months and craving a warm sbiten, or enjoying the cool and refreshing taste of mors in the summer, Russian non-alcoholic drinks are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the full spectrum of Russian culture.