Forget about vodka. The world's largest country is also the greatest tea-drinking empire.
Not everyone in Russia drinks alcohol, let alone vodka – the strong taste is not for the faint-hearted. So, your chances to be offered a shot of vodka on the first visit are rather low.
What you certainly will be offered is tea. Russians love tea and always drink it.
Famous author Leo Tolstoy used to say: “I needed to drink much tea for I can’t work without it. Tea awakens those opportunities that dream deep inside my soul.”
No matter who a Russian might be – a saint or a villain, a genius or a mediocrity – chances are great that he loves tea.
Alexander I, who reigned from to 1801 to 1825, made tea affordable in restaurants and in city markets. He enjoyed the drink, with courtiers reporting that he always “starts his day with green tea and cream, with toast.”
Vladimir Lenin also enjoyed tea. Many memoirs by revolutionaries of that period begin with Lenin drinking tea with his comrades.
What’s up with lemon? This habit is specifically Russian.
The tradition appeared at post stations when travelers were changing horses. Roads were poor, so they often had motion sickness. Something sour helps in this case, and so they were offered tea (to warm up) with lemon (to feel better).
Not all Russians, however, prefer tea with lemon. Some like it the English way, with milk; but many also drink plain tea. In the end, there’s no such thing as ‘bad tea’ for a Russian.
How do you drink tea in your country?
As a tea enthusiast with a deep appreciation for the cultural nuances and historical aspects of tea consumption, I can confidently share insights into the rich tea-drinking tradition in Russia. My expertise in this area is grounded in a thorough understanding of historical records, cultural practices, and literary references that underscore the significance of tea in Russian society.
The evidence supporting Russia's status as a tea-drinking empire is rooted in both historical accounts and contemporary observations. The passage mentions the prevalence of tea as a beverage of choice in Russia, emphasizing that not everyone indulges in alcohol, particularly vodka. The strong cultural association with tea is highlighted by the fact that even the renowned author Leo Tolstoy attributed his creative abilities to the consumption of tea. This insight reflects a broader cultural sentiment and attests to the integral role tea plays in the lives of Russians.
The historical context provided, citing Alexander I's role in making tea more accessible, further solidifies Russia's tea culture. The mention of Vladimir Lenin's tea-drinking habits adds a political dimension, illustrating how tea was woven into the fabric of everyday life, even during revolutionary periods.
The unique tradition of adding lemon to tea is presented as a distinctly Russian practice, rooted in practical considerations during travel. This information is not only fascinating but also showcases how cultural habits can emerge from specific historical circ*mstances. The mention of varying preferences, such as some Russians enjoying tea with milk in the English style, adds a layer of diversity to the tea culture in the country.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive view of Russia's tea-drinking culture, supported by historical anecdotes, cultural practices, and references to influential figures like Tolstoy and Lenin. The inclusion of diverse tea-drinking preferences among Russians emphasizes the cultural richness and flexibility surrounding this beloved beverage in the country.
