For a short while in the early 1990s we had reasonably good relations with Russia and I went there on business a few times.
The most prestigious brand of vodka in Russia was Smirnoff. The Stolichnaya that we think is so wonderful over here is considered barely above sewer water in Russia.
Great info re Smirnoff. That is what I buy. And not much of it. A bottle in the summer for Vodka Tonics, and one year I forgot I had it, was still in the fridge in November. I’m the only person in a family of alcoholics who doesn’t give a flying fig about the stuff, other than a nice Merlot with dinner “for my health’s sake.”
I’ve always wanted to go to St. Petersburg. Beautiful city, fabulous art. Have you been there?
And Siberia fascinates me. Such beautiful sturdy wild horses, such strong people. I do NOT wish to visit, however
My cat has an account on Twitter and one of her fave followers is “Putin” a one-eyed black cat.