11 Famous Azerbaijani Beverages

Black tea, or “çay,” is a beloved national beverage in Azerbaijan. This strong, robust tea is typically served in small, pear-shaped glasses called armudu and is often sweetened with sugar cubes or jams.

Brewed using a traditional two-pot method for a rich, concentrated flavor, Azerbaijani tea can also be infused with herbs like thyme, mint, or rose petals.

You’ll find çay enjoyed throughout the year, at any time of day, especially during social events, weddings, and the Nowruz festival. Its influence has spread beyond Azerbaijan, making it popular across the Caucasus and the Middle East.

Ayran is a refreshing, tangy drink perfect for beating the heat. Made by blending yogurt with cold water and a pinch of salt, it has a smooth, creamy texture and a slightly salty taste that pairs wonderfully with spicy and rich dishes.

While Ayran is enjoyed year-round, it’s particularly popular in the summer, often served at outdoor gatherings and picnics. It’s sometimes mixed with herbs like mint or dill for an extra burst of freshness.

This beloved drink is also a hit in Turkey, Iran, and other parts of the Middle East and Central Asia.

Sherbet, or “şərbət,” is a traditional Azerbaijani drink made from sugar, lemon, saffron, mint, basil, fruits, and berries. Its sweet, aromatic flavor and light, refreshing texture make it perfect for warm weather.

Sherbet is a staple at weddings and special events, usually paired with traditional dishes like pilaf and dolma. Beloved in Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey, sherbet is known for its soothing and revitalizing properties.

Compote, or kompot, is a common Azerbaijani drink made by simmering fresh or dried fruits with sugar. This sweet, flavorful beverage can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Loved year-round, it is often served at breakfast or as a refreshing drink throughout the day, especially in summer when fresh fruits are abundant.

Popular variations of compote in Azerbaijan include apple-cinnamon, cherry-plum, and mixed berry. It is a staple at Azerbaijani festive tables, particularly during family gatherings and holidays like Novruz Bayram.

Azerbaijani fruit juices, commonly made from pomegranates, cherries, and plums, are loved for their refreshing, natural flavors and rich vitamin content. These juices range from sweet to tart, with pomegranate offering a deep tang and cherry a sweet-sour balance.

Enjoyed year-round, they are perfect for breakfast or a refreshing summer drink. They also play a key role in celebrations like Novruz Bayram. Their popularity extends beyond Azerbaijan to regions like Iran and Turkey.

Rose sherbet, or gülab, is a traditional Azerbaijani drink made from rose petals, water, and sugar. With its delicate floral taste and light sweetness, this exotic beverage is cherished for its soothing properties and aromatic fragrance.

Enjoyed cold, rose sherbet is perfect for hot summer and is often served at special occasions like weddings and Novruz Bayram. Variations include jasmine or saffron infusions, adding complexity to the drink.

Popular in the Middle East and South Asia, Gülab is refreshing at any time, especially on warm afternoons.

Azerbaijani wine, a traditional beverage, offers diverse flavors from indigenous grape varieties and diverse terroirs. Azerbaijani wines often feature rich, fruity notes, well-balanced acidity, and a smooth finish.

Enjoyed year-round, Azerbaijani wine pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of local cuisine and is a staple at celebrations like weddings and Novruz Bayram.

The industry has grown significantly, with wines gaining popularity in international markets, particularly Russia, Georgia, and Europe.

Notable Azerbaijani wines include Madrasa, a robust red; Shirvanshah, a floral and fruity white; and Karabakh, a red that reflects the rich terroir of the Karabakh region.

Vodka, or “araq,” is a vital part of Azerbaijani culture. This clear, strong spirit is usually made from grains or potatoes, resulting in a smooth and pure drink. In Azerbaijan, you can find Araq infused with local flavors like honey, herbs, or fruit, giving it a unique twist.

Vodka is popular not only in Azerbaijan but also in nearby regions like the Caucasus and Central Asia. It’s enjoyed year-round, especially during dinners and social gatherings, and is a favorite at weddings and festive events.

Sumac juice, or Sumac-ade, is a traditional Azerbaijani drink from sumac berries. Known for its tangy, citrus-like flavor and tart undertone, it resembles lemonade and is smooth and refreshing, perfect for hot summer days.

To prepare sumac juice, sumac berries are soaked in cold water, crushed to release their tart flavors, and then strained to remove solids. Also enjoyed in the Middle East and Mediterranean, sumac juice is commonly served during lunch or as a refreshing drink throughout the day.

Buza, or boza, is a traditional Azerbaijani drink from fermented grains like millet, barley, or wheat. It has a thick, creamy texture and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor.

The grains are cooked and fermented, with sugar or honey sometimes added for extra sweetness. Chilled, buza is a nutritious, energy-boosting drink, popular during colder months for its rich, hearty taste.

Buza is part of the traditional culinary heritage, enjoyed in Azerbaijan and throughout the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. Often served at breakfast or as a snack, it is especially favored in winter and is a common feature at family gatherings and social events.

Azerbaijani beer is a key part of the country’s drinking culture, with Xirdalan Lager being the favorite. This golden beer has a crisp, refreshing taste, with grainy malts, a hint of honey, and a subtly bitter finish.

Afsana, an American Pale Lager, offers a mild, sweet flavor and a light to medium body, while NZS Premium is a pilsner known for its citrusy notes and crisp finish.

These beers are enjoyed year-round, especially during social gatherings. Widely available in Baku’s pubs, clubs, and restaurants, they are popular among locals and tourists alike.