Russia is known for its rich cultural history, vast landscapes, and of course, its iconic vodka. However, the country’s beer scene is rapidly growing, and for those visiting, it’s an exciting part of the local experience. Whether you’re sipping a classic Russian lager in a Moscow pub or exploring the booming craft beer scene in St. Petersburg, drinking beer in Russia is a unique and enjoyable activity.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Russia and are keen to dive into its beer culture, this guide will provide you with all the tips you need to navigate the nuances of Russian beer etiquette, local beer types, and the best places to enjoy your drink.
1. Know the Popular Russian Beer Styles
Russian beer is diverse, with many styles that range from mass-produced lagers to experimental craft beers. Understanding the most common types of beer in Russia will help you choose the right one for your taste and occasion.
Common Beer Styles to Try:
- Lagers: Light, crisp, and refreshing lagers dominate the Russian beer scene. The most popular brands, like Baltika and Zhigulevskoye, offer a variety of pale lagers, which are perfect for casual drinking. Expect most lagers to have an ABV (alcohol by volume) ranging from 4.5% to 5.5%.
- Russian Imperial Stout: A rich, dark beer that originated in Russia during the 18th century. If you enjoy stronger, malt-forward beers with chocolate and coffee notes, try a Russian Imperial Stout like Baltika 6.
- Wheat Beer: Refreshing and easy to drink, Ochakovo Wheat Beer is a great option if you’re looking for something light and fruity with a slightly cloudy appearance.
- IPAs (India Pale Ales): Russia’s craft beer scene has embraced the IPA style, with breweries like Tinkoff Brewery producing well-balanced and hoppy beers that range from floral to piney.
2. Understanding Beer Sizes and Measurements
When ordering beer in Russia, it’s important to know the common sizes and how beer is typically served. The most popular beer sizes are:
- 500 ml: The standard beer bottle or can size. This is the most common amount for a single serving, particularly in bars and restaurants.
- 0.33 L: Often seen in smaller bottles, especially in more refined or craft beer venues.
- 1 L or 1.5 L: Large bottles are typically sold for home consumption or for sharing with friends during a gathering.
Beer in Russia is generally served in glasses, bottles, or cans, with glassware often reflecting the type of beer you are drinking. Craft beers might be served in smaller glasses, whereas lagers are often served in standard pint glasses.
3. Beer Etiquette: What You Need to Know
While beer drinking in Russia is quite casual, there are still a few key etiquette tips to keep in mind to blend in with the locals and fully enjoy the experience.
Toasting: “Za Zdorovye!”
In Russia, toasting is an important part of any drinking occasion. When drinking beer, you’ll often hear the toast “Za Zdorovye!” (За здоровье), which translates to “To your health!” It’s customary to raise your glass, make eye contact, and take a sip after the toast is made. The toast is typically given by the host or the person who buys the beer. Don’t forget to participate!
Drink with Food
Beer in Russia is typically enjoyed with food. It’s common to see Russians drinking beer with hearty meals like shashlik (grilled meat skewers), pelmeni (dumplings), or borscht (beet soup). Pairing beer with traditional Russian dishes enhances the experience and makes for a well-rounded meal.
Rounds and Sharing
If you’re at a social gathering or a pub, it’s common for people to buy rounds of beer for everyone in the group. This is a gesture of friendship and camaraderie. If someone buys you a beer, it’s polite to reciprocate by buying the next round. Beer is generally shared among friends, and large bottles are often passed around at social events.
4. Where to Drink Beer in Russia
Russia offers a variety of places to enjoy a cold beer, whether you’re looking for a casual drink or a more immersive beer experience. Here’s where you can go:
Pubs and Bars
The most common places to drink beer are pubs and bars. In major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, you’ll find a range of options, from traditional Russian bars serving classic lagers to trendy craft beer pubs featuring local microbrews. Bars in Russia often serve a variety of beer styles, including local lagers and craft beers.
Beer Gardens and Outdoor Cafes
During the warmer months, beer gardens and outdoor cafes are extremely popular. These are great places to relax, enjoy a cold beer, and soak in the atmosphere. Beer gardens in places like Moscow’s Gorky Park offer a perfect mix of people watching and enjoying a crisp lager on a sunny day.
Microbreweries and Craft Beer Bars
Russia’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, especially in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other major cities. Breweries like Tinkoff Brewery, AF Brew, and Bierkrug Brewery are leading the way with experimental beers. If you want to experience Russia’s craft beer revolution, visiting a microbrewery or craft beer bar is a must. These venues often offer tastings of their own beers, along with food pairings to complement the brews.
Supermarkets and Shops
If you prefer to buy beer to enjoy at home or at a picnic, Russian supermarkets and convenience stores have a wide range of beers available, from mass-produced lagers to local craft brews. Look for larger supermarkets with a dedicated beer section to find the best variety. You can also find Russian craft beer at specialty shops that focus on local brews.
5. Try Regional Specialties
Russia is a vast country with diverse regions, and each area has its own brewing traditions. For the adventurous beer drinker, trying beers from different regions of Russia can be a rewarding experience. Here are a few regional beer styles to look out for:
- Siberian Beers: Known for using local herbs and honey, Siberian beers offer distinct flavors that reflect the wild landscapes of the region. Look out for breweries like The Three Bears Brewery in Krasnoyarsk.
- Volga Region: In cities like Kazan and Samara, you’ll find beers that blend Russian and Tatar influences, often with malt-forward flavors. Local favorites like Zhigulevskoye are perfect for trying out more traditional Russian flavors.
- Southern Russia and the Black Sea Coast: Beers from the warmer regions of Russia tend to be lighter and more refreshing, perfect for pairing with seafood. Try Kama Golden Lager from Sochi or Krasnodar.
6. Russian Beer Festivals
If you happen to be visiting Russia during a beer festival, don’t miss the chance to experience local beers in a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere. Beer festivals are an excellent way to try a wide variety of beers, learn about the brewing process, and meet fellow beer enthusiasts. Some of the top beer festivals in Russia include:
- BrewFest Moscow: One of the largest craft beer festivals in Russia, featuring brewers from all over the country and beyond.
- St. Petersburg Beer Festival: A celebration of both Russian and international craft beers, with tastings, live music, and food pairings.
Conclusion
Drinking beer in Russia is not only about the beer itself—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re sharing a lager with friends, trying new craft brews, or pairing your drink with traditional Russian cuisine, beer is an integral part of Russian social life. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the local beer culture to the fullest and experience all that Russia’s growing beer scene has to offer. So, raise a glass and toast “Za Zdorovye!”—to your health—while exploring the diverse world of Russian beer. Cheers!
