Russian toasts
Legend says that a toast is vacant without vodka. Capture the moment of communion and cheer with one of these classic Russian toasts.
In Russia, vodka is a national treasure.
And so when we drink, It is not about mere consumption but commemmoration.
After all, a toast is a moment of communion, bringing people together, looking at the person in front of you. That is why we look in each other’s eyes when toasting. When you look someone in the eyes, you are looking into the Russian soul: a compelling, mysterious part of Russian culture that has been the driving force behind many a great
(if long) novel, and many a great (if longer) night.
До дна!
DO DNA!
Until the end, the heroic !
(Shot taken in one go)
Russian Standard is a vodka better sipped than taken in one shot. Its unique character and unrivalled purity is better tasted than swallowed. Nonetheless, there are moments that call for kicking it back, as it were. Appreciate the slightly dry aftertaste with a hint of sweet spices.
За встречу!
ZA VSTRECHU!
To our get together!
We might think we have a tough time with new security laws and tightened baggage restrictions at airports, but it used to be that going 100 km was a matter of life and death.
But nothing can keep the Russians from their heavily social selves.
This toast is a way to celebrate the importance of friendship and companionship, no matter the distance that may come between you.
За милых дам!
ZA MILYH DAM!
To lovely ladies!
When you live in a country of willowy women with leggy legs, long locks of gold and brown, and high chiselled cheek bones, it’s only natural to raise a glass to the fairer sex every once in a while.
Ваше здоровье!
VASHE ZDOROVIE!
To your health!
Vodka has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is commonly believed that one shot, or 50ml, of vodka per day benefits blood circulation.
And similar to the US or the UK where a nip of brandy or whiskey is commonly used to mellow the effects of a cold, in Russia, you’re given vodka, straight and heavily peppered, then told to jump into bed under several blankets to sweat off whatever ails you.
Выпьем за любовь!
VIPIEM ZA LUBOV!
Let’s drink to love!
The Russians are a romantic lot, and courtly love, folkloric feats and poetry are still a staple of many a Russian romance.
But love in Russia has to do with much more than just what goes on between a couple: it also extends to a Russian’s relationship with his country, from its vast landscapes, to its unforgettable cuisine. This toast is really about a passion and a zest for life that is unmistakably Russian.
