Vodka is a distillate that is mainly produced from fermented grains or potatoes, and even though many purists disagree, fruit or molasses can also be used. The base material can be distilled many times, and each distillation produces stronger and purer vodka varieties.

The history of vodka remains unclear, with both Russia and Poland claiming to be the place of origin. According to some written records, the drink has been enjoyed since the 15th century, with many enthusiasts arguing that it appeared earlier, but was not known under its current name. 

Chacha is a potent Georgian brandy that is made from pomace—solid remains of grapes such as skins, stems, and seeds that are left after the juice has been pressed. The drink is usually a by-product of winemaking, in which the pomace is collected and aged before it is distilled.

Varying between 40 to 60 percent in alcohol content, chacha is usually clear and characterized by aromas of dried fruit. When it is oak-aged, it attains a light golden color and notes of vanilla, caramel, and wood. Although it is commercially produced, many families produce wine at home, and also distill chacha from the leftover pomace, while some producers even make it from whole grapes. 

Named after the eponymous mountain in Yerevan, Ararat is the most famous Armenian brandy. Ararat was first introduced in 1887, and it was mainly modeled on the famed French cognac-making tradition. Although Armenian producers copied French methods, the combination of spring water from the Katnaghbyur source, climate, and native grapes influenced the creation of a brandy that has been praised for its excellent quality and a unique character.

The brandy is exclusively produced from local Armenian grapes that are grown in Ararat Valley, and it is aged for at least three years in centuries-old Caucasian oak casks. Depending on the age of the blend, Ararat can be labeled differently, while specialty blends also carry various designations. 

Starka is an alcoholic beverage that is usually based on rye spirit. It dates back to the 15th century, and it is traditionally associated with Poland, Lithuania, and Belarus. Its origin is mostly connected to Polish noble families who would bury and age a distillate in wooden barrels to commemorate the birth of a child.

Starka was only consumed on special occasions, most commonly on the child’s wedding day. Nowadays, most varieties of this old drink are made from a rye distillate and a number of secret ingredients, while the best versions are still aged in oak barrels. 

Often dubbed as Russian moonshine, samogon is a potent drink that can be distilled from virtually anything, but the most common base ingredients include grains, corn, beets, sugar, potatoes, bread, or various fruits. The name of this centuries-old drink roughly translates as self-distilled.

The exact time when samogon first appeared is not known, but it is suggested that it even might precede the all-time-favorite Russian vodka. Through history, samogon was a drink of choice among lower social classes and in rural areas in Russia. Starting with the reign of Ivan the Terrible, any liquor that was not state-produced was outlawed, and vodka and wine were mainly promoted as suitable options.