15 Best Russian Vodka Brands in the USA: 2023 Guide

You’ll definitely want to try out Russian Standard if you’re looking for the best Russian vodka in the USA. It’s got a smooth and complex taste, which makes it perfect for all sorts of cocktails and mixed drinks.

Russian Standard vodka is made from winter wheat grown in Russia’s fertile black earth. It’s distilled over 200 times, and no additives are used to mask any unpleasant flavors or aromas, so you get an experience that’s as pure as possible.

Vodka lovers can also appreciate that Russian Standard is gluten-free, perfect for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions. And with various flavors, something to suit everyone—from vodka with Siberian Golden Root extract or silver-filtrated vodka. So whatever your taste buds tell you, you’ll find something that satisfies them regarding this vodka brand.

Try some Russian Standard Vodka in our Delicious White Tea Shot Recipe.

If you love Russian vodka, you’ve probably heard of Beluga. It’s one of the top-shelf Russian vodkas available in the US, and it’s made with attention to detail and quality ingredients.

The same 3-step process is used every time: soft winter wheat is triple distilled, filtered through birch coal and silver, and finally filtered through quartz sand. Each bottle is also numbered by hand to show authenticity, so you know you’re getting the real thing.

Beluga vodka also offers a few special varieties that stand out from other Russian vodkas. Its Gold Line provides a smooth finish that makes it great for sipping or mixing into cocktails. At the same time, its Noble line offers a slightly sweeter taste using only winter wheat from Russia’s Khovansky region.

But Beluga isn’t just known for its liquids and luxurious packaging. Every bottle comes with its own gold-rimmed glass stopper, making it look like something straight out of a movie set.

If you want to experience the best of what Russia offers regarding vodka, Beluga should be at the top of your list.

If you’re looking for smooth and sophisticated vodka, Zyr is a perfect choice. It’s a luxury vodka from Russian winter wheat and pure water from northwest Russia. It’s five-time distillation and quadruple filtration processes stand out, leaving you with a smooth and velvety finish.

This vodka is also rated highly for its delicate flavor, which contains hints of citrus, earthy sweetness, and gentle spice. The best part? It’s only 40% ABV so you can enjoy your drink without worrying about it being too potent.

This special vodka has received a 100-point rating from Wine Enthusiast and is a double gold award winner at the World Spirits Competition.

So if you’re looking for a high-end Russian vodka that won’t break the bank, Zyr is definitely worth considering.

This Vodka Sour Cocktail Recipe pairs perfectly with Zyr Vodka.

Regarding Russian vodka, you need to look no further than Jewel of Russia. Distilled to perfection in the region of Kaliningrad, this is one of the most popular brands in the US. It is one of the only vodka brands with a ‘Classic’ and an ‘Ultra’ label, providing consumers with choices across different price points.

The Jewel of Russia Classic is made with all-natural grains, filtered ten times over, and distilled 5 times to ensure quality and smoothness. The unique charcoal filtering process gives it an unmistakably clean taste without that overpowering alcohol flavor often associated with vodkas. The Ultra label, on the other hand, goes through an additional 3-step filtration process using crystals for a crisp finish and subtle aroma.

Jewel of Russia deserves a place on your shopping list if you want a smooth vodka experience without compromising taste or quality. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or something more luxurious to indulge in – this Russian brand has something for everyone!

If you’re looking for a unique Russian vodka, look no further than Green Mark. The ultra-premium vodka comes from the homeland of vodka, Russia, so you know it will be top-notch.

Green Mark is distilled six times and filtered three more times to give you a smooth, crisp flavor that won’t disappoint. The result is a premium vodka with a clean taste that won’t leave you feeling too heavy after one too many shots!

Are you looking for the best Russian vodka? Look no further than Imperia, the traditional Russian vodka brand from St. Petersburg. Founded in 1894, Imperia has become one of the most recognizable brands in the US for its award-winning vodkas.

What makes Imperia stand out?

Finest Ingredients

Imperia uses some of the finest ingredients in its products. From freeze-filtering its grain spirits to using honey and juniper as flavorings, each bottle of Imperia is crafted with care and precision.

Distinct Taste

What really sets Imperia apart is its distinct taste: smooth and clean, yet somehow full-bodied at the same time. The secret to Imperia’s flavor is a combination of exceptional ingredients, a triple filtration process, and inventive techniques like freeze-filtering grain spirits before distillation, allowing for more flavor extraction from the ingredients used.

Quality Awards

It’s no coincidence that Imperia has won multiple awards for its quality vodka because every bottle is thoroughly tested and verified by a team of experts before it hits shelves. From gold medals at prestigious international taste tests to awards from seasoned sommeliers, it’s clear that Imperia takes quality seriously – and so will you when you try this remarkable vodka brand!

If you’re looking for a classic Russian vodka, you should definitely go for Stolichnaya (or Stoli). It’s been around since 1938 and has always been made with a wheat-based recipe from Russia.

Stoli vodka is an iconic brand and for a good reason. Not only does it have an unmistakable taste and smooth finish, but it also boasts several awards in taste tests and competitions. Time Magazine proclaimed Stoli “the best-rated vodka in the world” in 1989.

When it comes to their distillation process, Stoli takes things seriously. They use the “Charter Process” – a state-of-the-art distillation process where every bottle is distilled four times and then purified with quartz sand filters to eliminate impurities.

The result? It is an ultra-smooth, clean-tasting vodka that stands out among the many other options on the shelves in the USA – which makes it clear why it’s one of the top 15 Russian vodkas in the US!

Let’s talk about Husky vodka! This innovative Russian vodka distillery is among the most popular brands in the United States. They craft super premium vodka from 100% wheat, and it has a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please any vodka connoisseur. With a smooth and creamy finish, you can savor every sip.

Distillation process

The distillation process is what really sets this vodka apart. This wheat-based spirit is distilled 19 times, made with crystal spring water, and filtered using activated charcoal. These steps result in a pure, smooth spirit with hints of almonds on the nose and an overall sweet finish that lingers on the palate.

Drinks for any occasion

You’ll want to keep Husky close for any occasion; it’s also excellent for sipping straight or mixing delightful cocktails! Whether you’re looking for a unique martini or something classic like a Moscow Mule, this vodka can do it all — and do it well. The mixability of 8. Husky makes it the perfect choice for whatever event life throws your way!

Mamont Vodka hails from the Tambov region of Russia and is fast becoming a cult favorite for vodka lovers. This premium vodka is crafted using special grains grown at low temperatures with soft spring water. It’s five times distilled, blended with pure Alpine spring water, and filtered five times over birch coal. The result is an unparalleled smoothness and out-of-this-world taste.

The unique bottle is inspired by one of Russia’s most iconic animals – the mammoth, which adds to its allure and makes Mamont perfect for gifting. The brand claims it has notes of hazelnut, juicy citrus fruits, and spices, with a vanilla-like finish – delicious! Plus, if you like your vodka neat or on the rocks, you’ll love Mamont.

When it comes to classic Russian vodka, you can’t go wrong with Hammer & Sickle. This vodka is made from a unique blend of premium ingredients, and their signature distillation process results in a smooth, light taste that will appeal to everyone. Plus, the spirit has won multiple awards in the world of mixology and has been featured in publications like Modern Mixology and MSNBC.

This vodka is also gluten-free and proudly made without preservatives or additives. The bottle, designed with iconic Soviet styling, nods to its Russian roots, while the white ceramic cap adds classic sophistication. Hammer & Sickle Vodka is considered one of the best vodka brands in the United States for its bold flavor and smooth finish. Per their website, it is only available in a limited selection of stores in certain states, so if you find it in your area, grab it while you can!

The 11th best Russian vodka brand in the USA is Ivanabitch. An independent distillery based in St. Petersburg, Russia, Ivanabitch has made superior-grade vodkas since 2003.

What makes this vodka brand stand out?

Premium ingredients

Ivanabitch vodkas are made from premium grain, meticulously combined in the company’s own proprietary blend. This special blend gives Ivanabitch its unique flavor and smooth quality, distinguishing it from other brands. They also use pure spring water sourced from northern Russia to give the vodka a special boost of flavor and texture.

Distillation process

Ivanabitch vodkas undergo a rigorous 6-stage distillation process, producing a high-quality final product. The vodka is distilled, then filtered multiple times, and cold-stabilized to remove any impurities that may remain after distillation and filtration, giving you an unparalleled drinking experience every time you pour yourself a glass of Ivanabitch vodka.

If you’re looking for a smooth yet strong Russian vodka and have a taste for adventure, try raising a glass of Ivanabitch — it may just be your new favorite!

Are you going for a more traditional option? Look no further than Troika. A staple on the Russian-made vodka scene since 1925, Troika is a nationally recognized brand that is one of the country’s original vodka. As with all Russian vodka brands, it is made from premium grain or potato-based liquors, but Troika stands out by adding a touch of natural honey to give it a unique flavor.

Troika harkens back to the classic Moscow Mule – and its distinct flavor makes it an ideal choice for cocktails like Appletinis and White Russians. It has a smooth taste and a relatively low ABV percentage and comes in several sizes that make it ideal for sharing (or not). If you’re looking for something Russian without breaking the bank, check out Troika!

Rusya was founded in 2014 in Novosibirsk and is now a popular Russian vodka brand in the USA. Their vodka is produced locally with Siberian spring water, guaranteeing top quality and smooth taste.

Rusya produces both regular and flavored vodka, with flavors like berry, honey, and ginger. Their vodkas have a distinct aroma and are perfect for adding to cocktails or sipping straight.

Here are some of the things people love about Rusya vodka:

• Smooth, clean taste that’s easy to drink
• Fairly priced for its quality
• Perfect for both cocktails and sipping
• Made from natural ingredients sourced from Siberia
• Variety of flavors to choose from

You’ve heard of the Big Four Russian vodka brands, but have you tried Polugar? This is a traditional Russian vodka that’s been around for centuries—it gets its name from a pagan celebration of the sun. Polugar is made from rye and wheat and then double-distilled with traditional copper pot stills. It’s then left to mature in wooden barrels, which gives it a unique flavor.

Concerning taste, Polugar has a bold earthy flavor with sharp, spicy rye and pepper notes. It’s perfect for taking shots or mixing into cocktails, like a classic Moscow Mule or Vodka Collins. It’s also reasonably priced at around $40 per bottle, making it an affordable option for anyone exploring the world of Russian vodka brands.

Regarding the best Russian vodka brands, you cannot forget about Smirnoff. It is one of the top-selling vodka brands in the US and has been around since the 1800s, making it a classic.

Smirnoff offers a range of high-quality vodkas from winter wheat and rye grains that are distilled thrice for a smooth taste. If you’re looking for a vodka that nails the classic Russian flavor and won’t break the bank, Smirnoff is your go-to.

The brand’s signature vodkas are made with pure ingredients and include different varieties such as:

1. Smirnoff No. 21: A triple distilled vodka for super smooth sipping
2. Smirnoff Red Label: A signature classic vodka with a light flavor profile with hints of grain sweetness
3. Smirnoff Blue Label: An award-winning Russian premium vodka designed for high-end cocktails and mixed drinks
4. Smirnoff Citrus: Infused with orange, lemon, and lime citrus flavors for light, crisp and refreshing drinks
5. Smirnoff 90 Proof Vodka: Offers an intense experience and robust flavor due to its higher alcohol percentage

What to Look for When Buying Vodka

You might feel overwhelmed when shopping for vodka—many brands and types exist. But thankfully, there are a few things you can look for to make sure you get the best vodka experience.

Quality ingredients

The most important factor in choosing vodka is finding out what it’s made from—typically wheat, rye, or potatoes. Russian vodkas like Stolichnaya, Absolut, and Smirnoff use high-quality wheat or rye grains as the main ingredient to give their vodkas distinct flavors.

Distillation process

Another key factor is the distillation process used to produce the vodka. Russian vodkas like Beluga and Moskovskaya usually use a triple-distillation method, resulting in an incredibly smooth drink with no harsh aftertaste.

A perfect blend of sweetness

The last thing you should look for when buying vodka is the perfect balance of sweetness and alcohol – this will depend on personal preference. Still, Russian vodkas generally use smaller amounts of flavoring, resulting in a smoother taste that’s less overwhelming than some other brands.

So if you’re looking for the absolute best vodka experience, don’t forget to look at quality ingredients, distillation methods, and sweetness when checking out your options!

How to Taste-Test Different Types of Vodka

Do you want to experience the flavor of Russian vodka just like the Russians? It’s all about the proper taste-testing technique. Here’s how to do it:

Necessities

First, you’ll need a few things for your taste-testing:

• A shot glass for every type of vodka you’ll be testing (a minimum of two shot glasses is recommended).
• A plate with small snacks, such as salted popcorn, olives, nuts, or cheese cubes.
• Water and ice.

The Taste Test

Once you have everything ready, pour your vodka into the shot glasses — one type at a time — and take a sip. The first sip should be small and warm, so you can appreciate the true flavor without being overpowered by ice or water’s coldness. Take note of what flavors and aromas are present in each vodka. Add an ice cube to each shot glass and take another sip. This time, focus on what flavors stand out most when coldness is added (it will usually make certain flavors stand out more). Finally, add a splash of water to each shot glass and taste it again. This will lend itself to more subtle tastes like roasted aroma notes and hints of sweetness.

For an even more accurate tasting experience, alternate between sipping warm vodka, cold vodka, and vodka with water between each snack at food so that your palate isn’t overwhelmed by either flavor or texture from food or alcohol alone. Enjoy!

Where to Buy the Best Russian Vodka in the USA

Now that you know the best Russian vodka brands in the USA, it’s time to talk about where you can purchase them. There are many places to get your hands on some of these top-shelf vodkas, but here are a few of our favorites:

Online Retailers

The internet has allowed you to order just about anything with a few clicks. Some of our favorite online retailers for Russian vodka include Amazon, Drizly, and Total Wine & More.

Specialty Liquor Stores

If you’d like to visit your local liquor store, you can look at their selection of Russian vodka brands. Your local stores may carry some or all of the previously mentioned brands and other selections you may not find online.

Duty-Free Shops

If you’re traveling abroad anytime soon, check out the duty-free shops at the airport. It’s a great place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs and duty-free alcohol like vodka. You can find great deals and unique bottles you wouldn’t find anywhere else!

An Insider’s Guide to Making the Perfect Vodka Cocktail

Curious about making the perfect vodka cocktail with Russian vodka? It’s easier than you think, and it all starts with the right ingredients.

Choose Your Vodka

The vodka that you choose is key! The Russian vodkas have different flavor profiles ranging from sweet, floral notes to tart citrus flavors. They can range in ABV from 28% to 55%. Depending on your taste preference, pick a vodka that will give you the flavors you want.

Get Creative With Mixers

You don’t just have to settle for soda or tonic water! Mixers like orange juice, apple juice, cranberry juice, ginger beer, or sparkling lemonade can also work. Combinations like vodka, cream soda, triple sec, and diet ginger ale are also tasty.

Add a Garnish

Don’t forget the garnish—it can really take your drink to the next level! Try adding an olive, a citrus wheel, or some berries to your drink. For example: top off a classic Moscow Mule with a lime wheel or some fresh mint leaves for an extra special presentation.

Making the perfect Russian vodka cocktail is part science and part art. You can craft something unique and delicious with quality ingredients and creativity!

Vodka Cocktails

• French 76
• Vodka Press
• Caipiroska
• Black Superman Drink
• Dirty Shirley

Alternatives to Russian Vodka

Due to recent events with the Russian government’s invasion of Ukraine, many people are boycotting Russian vodka. The good news is that many popular brands aren’t made in Russia. Here are some of our favorites:

• Grey Goose – France
• Tito’s – Austin, TX
• Svedka – Sweden
• Skyy – California
• Ciroc – France
• Karkov – USA

Besides these, the Stoli Group produces vodka sold in the United States in Latvia. If you want to try some Ukrainian vodka, check out these brands:

• Khortytsa
• Reigncane
• Xdar

FAQ

You probably have many questions about Russian vodka brands in the USA. Here are some of the most common ones we hear from our customers:

Is Russian vodka better than other vodka?

That depends on your definition of “better.” Generally speaking, Russian vodkas are made with high-quality ingredients and have a smooth taste, making them a favorite for many vodka drinkers. However, this doesn’t mean all Russian vodka is good, or all other vodka is bad. It’s really a matter of preference.

What is the best Russian vodka?

That’s tough to say definitively, as tastes vary from person to person. Still, some popular options among our customers include XO Vodka, Beluga Gold Line Noble Vodka, and Stolichnaya Gold Vodka.

How much does Russian vodka cost?

As with any alcohol, prices vary depending on the brand and proof. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 for a bottle of quality Russian vodka.

See our guide on the cost of a vodka handle for the latest prices.

Does Vodka Go Bad?

Vodka is a distilled liquor with an indefinite shelf life if unopened and stored correctly.

Check out our guide on If Vodka Goes Bad here.

Conclusion

To wrap up, quite a few top-notch Russian vodka brands are available in the US. Whether you’re looking for quality vodka for mixing or sipping, there’s a Russian vodka out there. Whether you’re a fan of traditional vodka or want to experiment with something new and unique, there are plenty of options.

It can be daunting to try and narrow down the best Russian vodka brands, but with this guide, you can easily select the perfect vodka for your needs. So, pour yourself a glass of vodka, find a cozy spot, and read up on the 15 best Russian vodka brands in the US.