10 Facts about Vodka you didn’t know (With Pictures)

5. There Are Many Customs With Vodka

Not only is vodka enjoyed throughout the world, there comes a lot of customs that go along with consuming the drink over the years. During the times of Czar Peter, there was a custom pertaining to foreign ambassadors that was upheld. At the courtyard, one was expected to drink ‘the cup of the white eagle’ which was essentially 1.5 L of pure vodka. That amount can make anyone a bit woozy, but it is customary to oblige with tradition. In Russia, it is especially rude and considered suspicious if one refuses an offered drink. Russian tables are always set with shot or wine glasses and is widely known that a guest can’t be treated properly without a drink. Ever heard of that expression “bottoms up?” Well it stems from the Russian tradition of vodka being drunk bottoms up to not hurt the host’s feelings. When drinking to a toast of someone, it was tradition that you finish your drink bottoms up as a sign of respect for that person.