Recent survey findings reveal a clear preference pattern for hot beverages among Russians, with coffee taking the lead overall. Nearly half of those polled, about 48 percent, indicated coffee as their drink of choice when the weather or mood calls for something hot. Tea follows at a comfortable distance, with roughly 44 percent of respondents leaning toward tea, and a small segment, around 5 percent, reporting that they drink both coffee and tea in equal measure. A tiny portion, just over 2 percent, abstains entirely from coffee and tea, opting instead for chicory, matcha, or warm water with lemon. Cocoa occupies a niche corner of the market, chosen by around 1 percent of respondents. These numbers paint a broad picture: hot drink culture in Russia is still distinctly coffee and tea centered, with a sprinkling of alternatives for those seeking variety or specific flavors.
The survey digs into the coffee landscape with detail. Grain coffee emerges as the most popular option, selected by 42 percent of participants. Ground coffee and instant coffee account for about 27 percent, indicating a balanced preference for convenience and traditional brewing. A smaller but notable share drinks coffee in capsule form, highlighting the growing appeal of pod-based systems in homes and workplaces. Milk-based coffee, in particular, shows a strong affinity among respondents, with nearly 60 percent indicating it pairs well with their favorite brew. This suggests a strong cultural preference for creaminess and a smoother texture in daily coffee rituals.
Tea preferences reveal a nuanced culture as well. Classic black tea remains the favorite for 38 percent of participants, while green tea attracts 22 percent. Fruit and herbal teas occupy smaller yet meaningful portions, with around 17 percent enjoying fruit-flavored blends and 13 percent favoring herbal varieties. A notable trend within black tea is the rising popularity of Earl Grey, which has become the most favored subtype among black teas in the survey. These preferences reflect a diverse tea landscape where traditional staples coexist with aromatic and contemporary infusions.
Snacks and companions alongside hot drinks also shape daily routines. The most popular accompaniment to a hot beverage is chocolate and candies, chosen by about 32 percent of respondents. Sandwiches follow closely, capturing near 29 percent, while cookies and cakes are selected by just over 19 percent. Interestingly, 13 percent admit to enjoying coffee and tea together as a pairing, a testament to the flexibility of Russian snacking patterns. Healthful options like dried fruits are chosen by around 7 percent, suggesting that while indulgence remains common, there is a steady segment seeking lighter, nutrient-rich choices.
Beyond the numbers, the data hints at evolving habits influenced by urban lifestyles and accessible retail formats. The prevalence of grain and capsule coffees points to a mix of traditional preference and modern convenience. The strong milk association with coffee may reflect cultural tastes that favor creamy textures, while the tea spectrum indicates a broad interest in both classic and contemporary flavors. The snack mix reveals an appetite for both comfort foods and lighter selections, underscoring a social dimension where hot drinks serve as daily rituals, work breaks, and moments of relaxation.
Looking at the broader picture, these findings illustrate a robust and varied hot-drink culture in Russia. Coffee remains a staple morning driver and afternoon pause, while tea offers both a comforting daily ritual and a stage for experimentation with flavors like Earl Grey. The presence of alternatives such as chicory and matcha signals curiosity and openness to global influences, even as traditional preferences persist. The accompanying snacks highlight the social aspect of hot beverages, where people share time and small pleasures, from sweet treats to healthier options.
In sum, the survey captures a snapshot of a nation with a dynamic, layered approach to hot drinks. Coffee and tea sit at the core, each with distinct subgroups and preferences. The choices around coffee preparation, the continued appeal of classic tea varieties, and the evolving snack pairings together tell a story of everyday rituals that blend comfort, convenience, and a touch of culinary exploration. This portrait of consumption patterns offers a practical lens for retailers, cafes, and brands aiming to align products with current consumer tastes and evolving habits.