Vodka production in Russia has plummeted, despite a surge in alcohol consumption.
One of the reasons for production plummeting by 13% is a shortage of potatoes.
Figures show that in the first half of 2025, potato prices rose by 52% while the overall harvest dropped by 12%.
The drop in production is also driven by government policies.
In 2025, no Russian vodka can enter the European Union.
These laws were part of the EU’s fifth sanctions package passed in 2022, outlawing all Russian Spirits from the EU in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Despite this drop, Russians drank more in 2024 than at similar stages in the last eight years.
Russian financial audit firm Finexpertisa reported in May that more people prefer rum, whiskey, brandy and tequila.
Other beverages sales grew by 10.2% surpassing vodka consumption in some regions.
However, vodka still reigns supreme throughout the country, with 60% of sales annually.
Wine has managed to curb the trend in Russia, with production rising by 10.4%, with sparkling wines experiencing enhanced success as production grew by 17.8% year-on-year.
