Russians and Russian Vodka: How to Drink Russian Vodka and Other Drinking Traditions

Ask one hundred Americans to name something Russian, and I would wager that the majority of them would list Vodka as one of the top three things associated with Russia. That's not a bad thing, per se. It means the Americans can appreciate one of the fine cultural offerings from my homeland. The Demon Drink, as it is sometimes called, has always been a traditional subject for discussion and jokes between Russians and Americans. It is the subject of one of the long-standing stereotypes, which I am always asked about by so many. People tend to be fascinated by other cultures and the topic of drinking always bubbles to the top of the list. I can't recall how many times I have heard, "Do Russians all really drink that much?" I answer, "Certainly! A glass of vodka every morning including women and children." Hee hee

While for Russians the act of drinking vodka constitutes a very special ceremony; many Americans don't even know how to drink it properly. Ordering straight vodka on the rocks, and then sipping it like gin or whisky is not what we call drinking vodka. To properly consume this fine spirit, one serves it straight in shot glasses with a pickle and black bread. Really? Yes, really.

Having announced a brief toast "Na Zdorovie!" ("To Your Health!"), one ceremoniously says "Nu..." ("So..."), takes a deep breath, tilts his head back and downs the entire shot in one defiant motion. Next, give a quick sniff to your slice of black bread and quickly eat it along with pickle.

There are many truly Russian traits of character; however, moderation is not to be found among them. The majority has an all-or-nothing affair with drinking and rounds are repeated until there is no more supply at hand. Ahhhhhhh.

If you have any fears of public speaking, drinking in Russia will challenge you. There is one thing you should think of ahead of time...a toast. Toasts are sometimes lengthy and commonly cross nearly any subject. It is usually the host who pronounces the first toast and the guests then follow. An important bit of etiquette to remember, do not drink until the first toast has been offered. After a toast Russians usually clink their glasses together, but this is not done by someone who is drinking something non-alcoholic. Remember, Russians are very hospitable, very proud and love to challenge, but participating in a drinking contest might be something one gives a second thought to. On a serious note, be polite, cheerful and open, but don't feel obliged to drink if you don't feel comfortable doing so.