Because of the high temperatures, summer is a time when we need to pay special attention to staying hydrated. In addition to water, we can enjoy a wide variety of refreshing drinks that help us stay hydrated and, at the same time, pair perfectly with our Cuban mini cigars
We’ve always heard about it, both from experts and family members: during the summer, you must stay hydrated. The idea has even made its way into major events like the 2026 World Cup, where “hydration breaks” were the talk of the town.
In any case, taking a break to enjoy a beverage, whether alone or with others, opens the door to many more options than just water or soda. Why not turn that moment into an opportunity to try something different? Below, we recommend five non-alcoholic beverage options that combine tradition and creativity to help you cool off.
A Summer Classic: Lemonade
Made the traditional way, lemonade is the classic summer drink par excellence, since we can make it at home or enjoy it at any bar or coffee shop during the hottest months. No matter where we go, we’ll always find it.
It’s usually made with lemon, though you can also add other citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or orange. If you add hints of mint or ginger, you’ll enjoy a unique flavor that will have you coming back for more time and time again. To pair with it, we suggest a Cohiba Short, since its mild to medium strength won’t eclipse the intense citrus flavor of our lemonade.
Refreshing Afternoon Snacks with Iced Tea
Iced tea is a perfect choice for summer afternoon snacks. In addition to helping us stay hydrated, it pairs perfectly with all kinds of desserts, from brownies with ice cream to homemade doughnuts. This is due to its astringent quality, which balances out the intensity of the sugar.
If we had to choose a mini to pair with this beverage, we’d go with a Romeo y Julieta Mini, whose balanced and aromatic blend adds a smoky note to the overall experience.
Coconut Water, the Ultimate Caribbean Touch
Native to tropical regions, coconut water is growing in popularity around the world. With a slight hint of sweetness, its coconut flavor is very delicate, so it won’t be too cloying for those who drink it. Plus, it’s a natural source of electrolytes and potassium, making it an ideal choice for staying hydrated in the summer, especially if you’re an avid athlete.
Obviously, a Caribbean drink like coconut water pairs very well with most of our Cuban mini cigars. However, we recommend lighting up a Guantanamera Cristales, both for its festive character and its mild aromas.
Kombucha: The Choice for the Most Adventurous
Made by fermenting sweet tea, kombucha is a drink suited for the most adventurous palates. Its slightly tart flavor, like that of cider, offers notes of fresh fruit as well as very fine bubbles. While it’s not a drink for everyone, its most loyal fans enjoy it anytime, anywhere.
Neither as sweet as a soft drink nor as intense as vinegar, kombucha is best paired with a mini cigar that has character. Our recommendation? Try an intense Partagás Chicos, whose high strength will create a unique flavor when combined with kombucha.
Tricking the Palate: Tinto de Verano 00
Very common in Spain, tinto de verano is a drink made with red wine and a carbonated beverage, either plain soda or soda with a hint of lemon. Tinto de Verano 00 follows this same concept, but is alcohol-free, making it a lighter option to enjoy during the hot summer months.
If you want to enjoy the taste of a well-chilled red wine without consuming alcohol, this is the perfect choice. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with more traditional cigarrillo the Trinidad Short, a mini that’s perfect for any occasion.
When it comes to summer drinks, there are plenty of options to help us beat the heat. This allows us to discover new flavors, add a little variety to our “hydration break,” or simply skip the alcohol. Whatever we ultimately choose, we can always enjoy it alongside our favorite Cuban mini cigars, whose versatility makes them the perfect companions.
