Best Eastern European Alcoholic Beverage Types
Georgian amphora wine is produced with an ancient wine-making method in which pressed grapes, including skins, juice (tkbili), stalks, and pips, are poured in traditional terracotta amphorae known as qvevri (kvevri). The amphorae are sealed and are then buried underground, or kept in Marani—underground cellars.
Usually, the wine is left to ferment from five to six months. The method is used throughout the country, though the wines can slightly vary in styles depending on the region. In Kakheti, the wine is produced with whole chacha—pomace—while in Imereti approximately only a third is used.
Saperavi is a resilient red Georgian grape that originated in the eastern region of Kakheti, and though it is still predominant in Georgia, small amounts are also grown in other Eastern European regions, Australia, and the United States.
This teinturier grape that has dark skins and flesh produces full-bodied wines of a dark garnet color which are characterized by aromas of ripe red berries and pleasant acidity. Most wines produced from the Saperavi grapes are varietal and have a great tendency to age.
Sapervai wines are incredibly versatile and can match a variety of dishes, including delicate fish dishes, stews, grilled meat, or game.
Kisi is a native Georgian variety that is mainly associated with Kakheti. Like many Georgian grapes, this white variety is also used for classic dry styles and traditional Georgian amber wines made in large clay vessels (qvevri).
The grape is often blended with Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane Kakhuri. By the 2000s, Kisi was almost extinct, but it is slowly being introduced as a local grape with excellent potential. Classic dry wines are crisp and bright. They have a medium body and aromas reminiscent of flowers, citrus fruit, apples, pears, and peaches.
Kvass is an ancient, traditional Russian beverage made from buckwheat meal, wheat, rye, rye bread, or barley, but it can be made from any ingredient that can be fermented. It has a relatively low alcoholic content (from 0,7-2.0 %) as a result of the natural fermentation process, but it is classified as a non-alcoholic beverage in Russia.
Some versions, especially commercial brands that are sometimes artificially fermented, do not contain alcohol. The origins of kvass are associated with Kievan Rus', a federation that eventually became an area of three large nations: Russians, Belarus, and Ukrainians.
Mtsvane Kakhuri, or simply Mtsvane, is an aromatic white grape native to Georgia. The grape produces alcoholic and tannic white wines. It is mainly found in Kakheti, where it is used in varietals and blends and several regional appellations.
Although suitable for various styles, it is primarily used for dry wines and traditional wines made in qvevri—terracotta pots used for fermentation and maturation. Dry white wines made from Mtsvane are fresh and light. They will usually have aromas reminiscent of white and yellow fruit, flowers, and citrus, often accompanied by herbal and mineral notes.
Krambambula is a Belarusian cocktail made with a combination of red wine and different types of liquor such as rum, vodka, or gin. The drink has also been declared the national beverage of Belarus. There are numerous recipes for Krambambula because wine can be mixed with any stronger liquor, depending on personal preferences.
In some areas, there are even commercially produced versions of this cocktail. It is believed that the name Krambambula is derived from the Old High German word chranawita, meaning croaker timber, a.k.a. juniper, and the Rotwelsch word blamp, denoting an alcoholic beverage.
Arguably the most popular white grape in Georgia and possibly one of the oldest grapes in the world, Rkatsiteli is an incredibly versatile variety used in the production of brandy and dry, sparkling, fortified, and dessert wines. Although it is grown in several other European countries, this ancient grape remains one of the flagship Georgian varieties.
Although it is grown in other regions, it is native to Kakheti. It is resilient to harsh weather conditions, retains excellent acidity, and achieves high sugars. Dry Rkatsiteli wines are light and refreshing. They tend to have an excellent balance of crisp acidity and sweetness that is complemented by complex and subtly spicy aromas of flowers, green apple, quince, and white peaches.
THE BEST Rkatsiteli Wine Varieties
Chinuri is a native Georgian grape that originated in Kartli, but it is also cultivated in Kakheti. This late-ripening grape produces high yields, and it is known for its ability to achieve crisp acidity and moderate sugar. It is used in the production of dry wines, but it is also known for fruity sparkling wines from the Atenuri appellation.
Chinuri wines have a floral and herbal character, with aromas reminiscent of yellow fruit and mint. The wines are commonly vinified with standard European techniques, but some producers opt to produce amber Chinuri wines made in traditional terracotta pots (qvevri).
Tsinandali is a Georgian appellation for white wines produced with a blend of local Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane varieties. It is located in Kakheti, more precisely in the regions Telavi and Kvareli. The appellation includes classic dry wines and traditional Georgian wines made in qvevri (clay amphora).
The resulting wines are straw-colored, light, and refreshing, usually packed with bright acidity. Typical aromas include a blend of yellow, white, and stone fruit and some citrus and floral notes. Qvevri-made wines will have more tannins and aromas that are often reminiscent of apricots.
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.
VARIATIONS OF Vodka
THE BEST Vodka Spirits
Nykur Spirits
Nykur Premium Organic Vodka
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023
Best Eastern European Alcoholic Beverage Producers
Shabo is a renowned producer of wine and alcoholic beverages from Ukraine, established in 2003. The company's headquarters are located in the village of Shabo in the Odesa region, which boasts a long tradition of winemaking dating back to the 16th century.
The company spans over 1,200 hectares of vineyards and produces a wide range of wines, cognacs, brandies, and liqueurs. Shabo is known for combining traditional winemaking methods with modern technologies, resulting in high-quality products that have won numerous international awards.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2016
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2023
BEST Shabo Spirits
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
BEST Shortbarrel Spirits
AWARDS
USA Wine Ratings - Gold
2020
BEST Voskevaz Wine Cellar LLC Wines
Bayadera Group is one of the largest producers and distributors of alcoholic beverages in Eastern Europe, founded in 1991 and headquartered in Kyiv, Ukraine. The company is a leader in the alcohol industry, renowned for the high quality of its products and its innovative approach to production and distribution.
Bayadera Group also boasts an impressive export network, covering over 35 countries worldwide. The company employs modern technologies in production and has developed more than 100 authentic alcoholic beverage recipes, many of which are protected by patents.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
BEST Four Corners Spirits
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2021
BEST Otaroff LLC Spirits
Best Eastern European Alcoholic Beverages
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
Grape Vodka Shabo Premium Gold is a distinguished spirit produced by Shabo, a renowned Ukrainian winery and distillery known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This premium grape vodka, presented in a 0.375L format, is made from carefully selected grapes grown in the prestigious Shabo terroir, a region recognized for its ideal conditions for viticulture.
The production process involves a meticulous distillation of grape-based spirits, ensuring purity, smoothness, and a refined flavor profile. The vodka is characterized by its crystal-clear appearance and a clean, velvety texture on the palate. Subtle fruity notes derived from the natural grape essence set it apart from traditional grain-based vodkas, offering a more delicate and elegant experience.
AWARDS
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
Grape Vodka Shabo Chardonnay is a premium spirit crafted by Shabo, a leading Ukrainian winery and distillery celebrated for its expertise and innovation. This exceptional vodka, presented in a 0.375L format, is distilled from carefully selected Chardonnay grapes, a noble white grape variety that imparts subtle elegance and refinement to the final product.
The production process combines traditional craftsmanship with advanced distillation techniques to preserve the natural grape essence, resulting in a crystal-clear vodka with an exceptionally smooth and clean profile. On the nose, it reveals delicate aromas of white flowers and light fruity notes, while the palate is soft and well-rounded, offering hints of fresh grapes and a touch of minerality.
AWARDS
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
SHABO Grape Vodka Muscat is a premium spirit crafted from elite grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Rhine Riesling, and Muscat Ottonel. Each bottle contains 4.5 kg of grapes sourced from the Shabo terroir, ensuring an exceptionally soft and rich flavor.
The production process involves triple distillation and filtration through diamond, gold, or silver filters, resulting in crystal-clear purity and unique natural properties. This grape vodka is best enjoyed chilled, at a serving temperature between +8 to +12 °C, and pairs well with fish, meat, grilled vegetables, and first courses.
AWARDS
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
Spokusa Cherry Temptation Liqueur is a Ukrainian liqueur produced by National Alcohol Company, a part of the Bayadera Group. This liqueur is renowned for its vibrant hibiscus notes, refreshing cherry flavor, and a finish with hints of dried fruit, offering a light yet rich flavor profile.
It is a perfect choice for those seeking a unique and flavorful liqueur experience.
AWARDS
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2022
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
AWARDS
European Beer Star - Gold
2023
AWARDS
European Beer Star - Gold
2023
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Eastern European Alcoholic Beverages” list until March 18, 2025, 1,280 ratings were recorded, of which 816 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.