It’s easy to think the only traditional drink to try in Russia is vodka. However, the country has many less-famous but equally delicious drinks to offer, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. For the food lovers and adventurous drinkers, here are the top six authentic beverages you must taste while visiting Russia.

1. Vodka

In Russia, locals often gather at a bar to enjoy a small bite to eat, concluding their meal with a shot of vodka. Notably, Russia boasts some of the world’s finest vodkas, so if you choose to indulge, make it the country’s unofficial national drink. However, exercise caution, as it can affect you quickly.

2. Kvas

Kvas is a mildly sweet beverage akin to sparkling cider, made from fermented dark rye bread and herbs, with a very low alcohol content (0.5–1 percent). It’s a traditional drink that farmers once favored for hydration.

This refreshing drink is available in large servings at affordable prices. While you can buy bottled kvas at stores, seeking out a local place that serves it on tap will provide the best experience—perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

3. Mors

Mors is the sweet, fermented juice made from regional Russian foxberries, resembling cranberries. With a thicker consistency than regular juices, it has a mild alcohol content of around 1 percent.

Often found in cocktails for added flavor, Mors is also popular with children, making it a delightful choice that’s both economical and delicious.

4. Ryazhenka

Ryazhenka is a unique drink produced by slow-boiling milk for over eight hours, then fermenting it to create a yogurt-like texture. While its preparation resembles that of condensed milk, the final product offers a distinct and delightful flavor. You can find Ryazhenka in most local stores and markets.

5. Beer

Believe it or not, Russia is home to some remarkable beers. While many foreign options are available, local brews are less accessible outside of the country and often priced affordably.

If heading to St. Petersburg, be sure to try Vasilyeostrovskoe beer, available in light, dark, and red varieties, brewed directly on Vasileostrovsky Island.

6. Black Tea/Cherry Varenya

Russians are avid tea drinkers, and visiting any café will expose you to a diverse selection of teas paired perfectly with sweet treats.

Black tea is the preferred choice, typically enjoyed without milk or sweeteners. Some choose to enhance the flavor with a Cherry Varenya, a delightful combination of black tea with sour cherries, lemon, and sugar. This combination balances sweetness with tartness, offering a sophisticated twist on simple tea.

7. Bread Wine

This unique drink shares some similarities with kvas but differs significantly in its alcohol content. Made from rye, it possesses a natural sweetness that intensifies due to the use of toasted grains.

The grains undergo fermentation after being treated with yeast and distilled twice, much like whiskey and bourbon. The result yields a spirit reminiscent of these liquors but without aging in barrels. This drink is regarded as a precursor to modern vodka.