Victoria Madalkhanova, chief barista at the ZDRASTE coffee shop chain, has advised consumers in Russia on choosing refreshing cold drinks during hot weather, warning that overly sweet beverages can increase thirst.
Speaking to news outlet Lenta.ru, Madalkhanova recommended evaluating four key factors when selecting a drink in high temperatures: sweetness, acidity, drink base, and caffeine content.
Madalkhanova explained that drinks with excessive sugar often exacerbate thirst rather than satisfying it, making moderate sweetness a better choice. She added that light acidity from citrus fruits or berries provides effective refreshment, though individuals with sensitive stomachs should consume acidic drinks with caution.
While traditional dairy options like iced lattes remain popular, Madalkhanova noted that they are no longer the sole obvious selection at coffee shops. Milk-based drinks tend to be more filling and can feel heavier in hot weather, whereas carbonated drinks, tea-based beverages, and options made with coconut water generally feel lighter on the stomach.
Popular Coffee Alternatives for Summer
One of the most popular alternatives to classic iced coffee is the espresso tonic, which Madalkhanova highlighted as particularly effective in hot weather. The tonic component provides freshness, light bitterness, and a carbonated base, while the espresso delivers a familiar invigorating effect without the heavy density of dairy milk.
Another seasonal hit is bumble coffee, a layered beverage composed of espresso, orange juice, and caramel notes. Madalkhanova stated that the drink combines coffee bitterness with citrus acidity and strong visual appeal, offering a rich flavor profile while feeling lighter than traditional iced milk drinks.
Tea and Matcha Options
For consumers seeking to replace coffee while maintaining a smooth energy boost, Madalkhanova suggested matcha tonic. Unlike an iced latte, matcha tonic features grassy notes of matcha combined with carbonated tonic. Matcha contains caffeine alongside L-theanine, an amino acid known for promoting a smoother and more balanced feeling of alertness.
Madalkhanova noted that matcha pairs well with a variety of summer flavor additions. Citrus fruits such as lime, orange, and grapefruit add freshness and balance grassy notes, while lychee introduces delicate sweetness and an exotic aroma. Adding coconut creates a softer and creamier taste, berries contribute brightness and sourness, and tonic provides a refreshing carbonated base.
Bubble Tea and Coconut Water
Bubble tea has also emerged as a distinct summer trend, according to Madalkhanova. The cold tea drink features tapioca pearls or juice balls at the bottom of the cup and is typically prepared using black or green tea blended with milk, fruit syrups, or fruit puree. She explained that its unique texture allows the drink to be perceived almost as a dessert, as consumers both drink and eat it.
Madalkhanova also highlighted coconut water as an ideal base for hot weather, describing it as naturally refreshing and effective at quenching thirst. Rich in essential electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium, coconut water remains light because it lacks the fat and dense texture of coconut milk. For those desiring a more dessert-style cold beverage, she recommended a frappe.
Russian Beverage Sales Trends
The recommendations follow market data for 2025 showing an overall drop in sales for most sweet carbonated drinks in Russia, including traditional lemonades and kvass. Reports indicate that only carbonated drinks explicitly labeled as cola experienced sales growth, expanding by nine percent in quantitative terms.
