Quote Originally Posted by Deborski View Post
Я про-пробила "Русский Стандарт" и очень нравится.
Я пробовала "Русский Стандарт" и мне очень понравилось.

Русский стандарт is SPB brand, one of a few real Russian brands which can be bought in regular US stores
In 99% the quality of ethyl alcohol confirms the quality of retail product and the taste usually comes from water and raw materials which were used in ethyl alcohol manufacture
There are five grades of ethyl alcohol in Russia permitted to be used in vodka production
Супер, Альфа, Экстра, Люкс and Высшей очистки
Only Супер, Альфа and Люкс are made from grain (the real stuff for vodka), at least major part of it
Only Супер and Альфа are permitted for "Premium" vodka grades
Only Альфа is made exclusively from grain and also has the highest quality on the Russian vodka market

Per my understanding none of Russian export brands made with Альфа grade alcohol
"Русский стандарт Platinum" made with Люкс grade which is middle class

Also, speaking from experience - never buy vodka made with Экстра grade, it will be disappointing
Information about alcohol grade can be found on a sticker of real Russian vodka (usually), in Russian obviously
If you want Russian vodka - go to local Russian store