When we think of Russia, the first thing that comes to mind is vodka.Vodka is a popular alcoholic beverage sold worldwide, but what sets Russian vodka apart from others? Many Russian vodka brands use high-quality ingredients and a traditional distillation process to enhance the overall quality of the spirit. In fact, vodka is one of the most popular and sought-after beverages in Russia. Let’s take a closer look at the best brands available.
Russian distillers believe that vodka is a healthier choice compared to other types of alcohol like whiskey or rum. This philosophy has led Russia to produce some of the finest vodka in the world.
Russians prefer to sip vodka neat, as opposed to adding it to cocktails. Although it is also used as the main ingredient in a variety of drinks, from refreshing summer cocktails to cozy winter recipes. In Russia, the drinking culture is much simpler.
In the following section, we will provide comprehensive information about the top ten Russian vodka brands that are currently considered to be exquisite in taste and quality.
Beluga Noble
Beluga Noble vodka is an excellent choice for those who prefer pure water from Siberian artesian wells and malt spirit. The vodka has a soft and rich flavor profile that is ideal for sipping neat or for mixing popular cocktails. The vodka undergoes a three-step filtration process to remove any hard flavors and odors, and is then left out for thirty days to neutralize the final product.
Green Mark
Green Mark vodka is a brand that remains true to its Russian roots, using natural Russian ingredients in each batch. Traditional distillation methods are used to create a clean finish every time. The brand’s name comes from Russia’s “green checkmark of approval” from the Russian government’s quality assurance. Green Mark’s ingredient sourcing and production remain in Russia to this day.
Hammer + Sickle
Hammer + Sickle vodka is a fresh and crisp vodka that offers a bold and round mouthfeel with a smooth finish. Although the original vodka is not flavored, you may detect slight notes of vanilla. Hammer + Sickle sources all its ingredients from a multi-generational family in Russia. The winter wheat from the black soil of Southern Russia provides the product with one of the cleanest tastes you can find.
Husky
Husky vodka gets its pristine finish from the cold filtration technologies that clean the spring water from Siberia. Frigid temperatures allow the filters to absorb more impurities, resulting in a pure and high-quality product. The vodka is named after the dog breed of the same origin, both showcasing traits of ice-cold temperatures. The paw print engraving on the crisp blue bottles adds to the charm of Husky vodka.
Jewel of Russia
Jewel of Russia vodka is a luxurious spirit that offers a smooth and clean finish. The vodka consists of high-quality Russian ingredients, including winter wheat and rye sourced from the black soil of Southern Russia. The water in each recipe comes from 500-feet-deep artesian wells. Each bottle has a hand-painted label featuring imagery reflective of Russian culture, making it a piece of art as well.
Marmont Siberian
Marmont Siberian vodka is a premium-quality vodka from one of the oldest distilleries in Russia. The vodka’s flavor profile is bold, smooth, and crisp, and its production method has roots in Russia, making it a national favorite. Marmont uses natural ingredients and implements a sustainable distillation process for a luxurious result.
Russian Standard
Russian Standard vodka is a high-quality, ultra-clean vodka that stems from a cross between craft, technology, history, and revolution. The inspiration for the recipe comes from famous Russian scientist Dmitri Mendeleev, who researched stability and the science of natural order. The vodka is made from soft glacial waters from Lake Ladoga and winter wheat grown throughout the Russian Steppes, contributing to its unique flavor and aroma profile.
Smirnoff
Smirnoff is the oldest and most popular vodka brand that has been a pioneer in the alcoholic beverage industry since 1864. Though the roots of this brand are no longer part of its origin, Pyotr Arsenievich Smirnov founded Smirnoff’s first distillery in Moscow, Russia. Following the Russian Revolution, the brand was sold to the United States, and it is now owned by Diageo and is still an American product.
Smirnoff is the best-selling well liquor brand for its classic version and flavored options. Its formulators are master mixologists who create beverages inspired by popular cocktail recipes. The brand also keeps up with emerging trends by introducing ready-to-drink vodka beverages, hard seltzers, and other innovative products.
Stoli
As the premium vodka brand, Stoli merges modern distilling processes with original traditions to produce a bold, timeless vodka that caters to dietary restrictions. Stoli distills most of its vodka from grain, and it also offers a gluten-free version of its premium vodka that uses corn and buckwheat in its distillation process.
Stoli vodka contains a standard 40% ABV, and it is recommended to calculate ABV before serving alcohol to drink safely and responsibly. For those planning to open a bar or looking for ways to increase bar profits, keeping various options in liquor storage units can escalate earnings.
Stoli Group uses its influence as one of the top premium wine and spirits sellers to promote sustainability. Stoli collaborates with the ReSea Project, which aims to fight plastic pollution in our oceans. Customers can make a difference with each Stoli purchase. For every bottle sold, Stoli funds the removal of roughly ten plastic bottles from oceans and rivers worldwide. Considering the reputation of Stoli Spirits, their efforts are sure to make an impact in the years to come.
Zyr Vodka
Zyr is a premium Russian vodka brand that delivers a pure style of Russian vodka that is favorable to many consumers. The blend of Russian winter wheat and rye produces a clean finish that goes through five distillation stages, allowing the result to contain maximum purity and a smooth finish. After this process, crystal-clear water is added to the vodka, making it a premium choice for vodka lovers.
