Russian Bear Vodka

Russian Bear carries the classic Eastern-style vodka name but is produced by Siberia Group Ulan in Slovakia and bottled at 40%. The spirit is run through several distillations, the step that removes congeners and fusel oils and leaves a particularly clean, mild base. Cut with water to bottling strength, it is built for smoothness and a recognisable, uncomplicated vodka character rather than any standout grain note.

The nose offers fresh grain and a light citrus freshness, while the palate is soft and smooth with a gentle cereal note and a subtle sweetness, finishing clean and mild. Its mildness gives it room to carry bigger flavours, so put it in a Bloody Mary: its clean body lets the tomato, horseradish and Worcestershire do the talking, while the spirit adds backbone without sharp edges. Build it over ice and finish with a celery stick and cracked pepper.