Alcohol

Truths and myths about Russian drinking

Word to the wise: By all means get down with the locals, but keep an eye on your drinks and try to avoid drinking alone with strangers.
Many of the stereotypes you may have heard about Russian drinking can be true. Russia does have a problem with alcohol abuse and drinking is to a certain extent an important part of local culture.
However, that is not to say that all Russians walk around getting blitzed all day. Most normal Russians drink at the weekend in the same way that the rest of Europe does – in bars, with friends and in relative moderation. In fact, amongst the younger generations drinking to excess, or even drinking hard alcohol at all, is starting to be considered unfashionable.

Vodka:
Vodka is still Russia’s signature tipple, but many now drink it mixed in a cocktail rather than in traditional straight-up style. When buying vodka invest in drinking a quality brand – too much Russian cheap vodka can give you a headache and worse.

If you perchance find yourself in a vodka drinking session with some Russians, don't feel obliged to match them shot for shot. Somebody is inevitably going to get falling-down drunk and nobody really wants that person to be you.
Beer:
Beer is also very popular. Available almost everywhere, there are dozens of different brands to choose from. The local brews in Moscow are Sibirskaya Korona, Bochka and Bochkaryov with St. Petersburg’s Baltika and Nevskoe brands also usually found on tap.

Licensing hours:
Russian bars and restaurants may serve alcohol 24 hours a day. Shops can sell alcohol that is under 15-percent proof 24 hours a day, but vodka and other spirits can only be purchased 10am - 10pm.

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