Russian Vodka Primer - Part 2: Get in the Spirit

By Alexander Wildeve and Rollo TomasiDrinkers – Van Gogh

Two a.m. in a high rise flat near Moscow’s center, a lively if wobbly group of Russian partiers stand facing one another, vodka shot glasses held aloft in one hand with a bit of zakuski clenched in the other. Between them, two cats forage on a table laden with plates of smoked meat and fish, cheese, black bread, pickled cucumbers, olives, fruit…and numerous bottles of Russian vodka.

Russian Vodka Primer - Part 1: Know Your Poison

By Alexander Wildeve

It’s no surprise that one of the stiffest drinks ever invented comes from one of the world’s coldest countries. A shot of syrupy smooth vodka is sure to thaw the blood and put fire in the soul after finding refuge from the -23C bone chiller of a Russian winter. Typically 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume), Russian vodka , a simple and effective blend composed entirely of water and ethanol, is now king behind every bar from Moscow to San Francisco and a staple in every recreational and professional drinker’s arsenal.