Alcohol in Azerbaijan: Rules, Prices & Local Wines

Azerbaijan is a secular Muslim-majority country. This often confuses visitors: Can you drink? Is it strict?

The answer is: Yes, you can drink, and the local alcohol scene is thriving.

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The Rules 📜

• Legality: Alcohol is legal and widely available.
• Drinking Age: 18.
• Public Drinking: Drinking on the street (walking with a beer) is technically fined but rarely enforced unless you are rowdy. Drinking in parks is generally frowned upon.
• Availability: Sold in supermarkets, liquor stores, bars, and restaurants.
• Religious Context: While many locals drink, some are strict non-drinkers. Respect their choice, but don't worry about yours.

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What to Drink 🍷

1. Azerbaijani Wine

Azerbaijan is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world.

• Red: Try Madrasa (local grape). Brands: Savalan, Meysari, Chabiant.
• White: Try Bayan Shira.
• Pomegranate Wine: A sweet, dessert-style wine. Unique to the region. Try Az-Granata.

2. Beer (Pivə)

• Xirdalan (Khirdalan): The national lager. Cheap, decent, drank everywhere.
• Craft Beer: A small scene is growing in Baku (e.g., Beerbasha).

3. Spirits

• Vodka: Very popular due to Soviet influence.
• Fruit Vodka: Mulberry (Tut) or Cornel (Zoğal) vodka. Very strong moonshine!

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Prices (2025 Estimates) 💰

Alcohol is very affordable compared to Europe/US.

• Local Beer (0.5L) in shop: 1.50 - 2.50 AZN ($1 - $1.50).
• Local Beer in bar: 4 - 8 AZN ($2.50 - $5).
• Bottle of decent wine: 10 - 15 AZN ($6 - $9).
• Cocktails in fancy bar: 12 - 20 AZN ($7 - $12).

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Where to Buy 🛒

• Supermarkets: Bravo, Araz, Spar sell alcohol until late (usually 10-11 PM).
• Wine Houses: Specialized shops like Keg & Cork or Port Baku Wines have better selection.

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Summary

• Relax: You can order a beer with your kebab.
• Try Local: Don't stick to Heineken; try Xirdalan and Savalan wine.
• Respect: Don't get drunk and loud near mosques or conservative areas.

Cheers! (Or as locals say: Sağlığına!)