Moscow, the heart of Russia, is not only a city steeped in history and culture but also a thriving hub for the country’s beer scene. While Russia may be best known for its vodka, the country’s beer culture is rich, diverse, and offers something for everyone. From crisp lagers to bold stouts, Moscow boasts a variety of local and traditional beers that are sure to impress any beer enthusiast. If you’re a tourist visiting Moscow, here are some must-try Russian beers to add to your list for a complete Russian experience.
1. Zhigulevskoye – A Classic Russian Lager
Zhigulevskoye is arguably the most iconic Russian beer, and it’s a must-try for anyone visiting Moscow. Named after the Zhiguli Mountains, this beer has become a symbol of Russian lager since its creation in the Soviet era. Known for its light, crisp, and refreshing taste, Zhigulevskoye is a favorite among locals and offers a classic Russian lager experience.
- Why Try It: Zhigulevskoye is perfect for anyone looking to experience a traditional, everyday Russian lager. Its mild malt sweetness and subtle bitterness make it an ideal beer for pairing with a variety of Russian dishes, from hearty stews to grilled meats.
- Where to Find It: You can easily find Zhigulevskoye at most bars, restaurants, and supermarkets in Moscow.
2. Baltika No. 3 – A Smooth Pale Lager
Baltika No. 3 is part of the Baltika Brewery’s extensive range of beers and is one of the most well-known and widely distributed beers in Russia. This pale lager has a balanced malt body with a hint of bitterness and a crisp finish. With its moderate alcohol content (around 4.8% ABV), it’s an excellent choice for a refreshing drink during your Moscow adventure.
- Why Try It: Baltika No. 3 is a great introduction to Russian lagers, offering a smooth and drinkable beer that pairs well with almost any meal. It’s perfect for those who want a light, sessionable beer with just the right amount of flavor.
- Where to Find It: Available at most pubs, restaurants, and bars in Moscow, Baltika No. 3 is a widely recognized brand and a staple in Russian beer culture.
3. Bogatyr – A Strong, Malt-Forward Lager
If you’re a fan of stronger, more flavorful beers, Bogatyr is an excellent choice. This robust lager is brewed in southern Russia and is named after the legendary “Bogatyrs” — mythical warriors known for their strength. With an alcohol content around 6-7% ABV, it offers a bold malt flavor, making it a heartier option for those who prefer a stronger beer.
- Why Try It: Bogatyr’s malt-forward taste and higher alcohol content make it perfect for pairing with hearty Russian meals like shashlik (grilled meat) or pirozhki (stuffed pastries). If you enjoy a more substantial beer, this one is sure to impress.
- Where to Find It: Bogatyr can be found in many craft beer bars and restaurants in Moscow, particularly those specializing in local and traditional beers.
4. Russian Imperial Stout – A Rich, Dark Beer
Russian Imperial Stouts are a piece of brewing history. Originally brewed for the Russian Imperial Court in the 18th century, this style is known for its deep, rich flavors, high alcohol content (often around 9-10% ABV), and complex taste profile. Today, Russian Imperial Stouts are produced by several craft breweries across the country, and they remain a must-try for beer lovers visiting Moscow.
- Why Try It: Russian Imperial Stouts are perfect for those who enjoy dark beers with robust flavors. Expect notes of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and dark fruits, often complemented by a smooth, boozy finish. It’s ideal for sipping slowly, especially on a cold Moscow evening.
- Where to Find It: Look for Russian Imperial Stouts in Moscow’s craft beer bars, where local brewers often create their versions of this classic beer. Be sure to visit places like “Craft Republic” or “Beer Yard” for an excellent selection.
5. Kvass – Russia’s Traditional Fermented Beverage
Kvass is a drink unlike any other beer-style beverage. Although it’s technically not a beer, kvass is a traditional Russian fermented beverage made from rye bread. It’s low in alcohol (typically around 1-2% ABV) and offers a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. Kvass has been a staple of Russian cuisine for centuries, often consumed as a refreshing drink during the summer months.
- Why Try It: If you’re looking to experience a truly traditional Russian drink, kvass is a must-try. Its unique, slightly sour flavor and low alcohol content make it a perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of Russian dishes, especially in the warmer months.
- Where to Find It: In Moscow, you’ll find kvass being sold at local markets, kiosks, and sometimes even specialty shops. Some restaurants that focus on Russian cuisine will also offer kvass as a drink option.
6. Tarkhuna Beer – A Sweet, Herbal Beer
Tarkhuna beer is a uniquely Russian beverage that combines beer with tarragon (known as “tarkhuna” in Russian). The addition of tarragon imparts a refreshing, herbal, and slightly sweet flavor to the beer, creating a one-of-a-kind drinking experience. This beer is an excellent choice for those looking to try something new and distinctly Russian.
- Why Try It: Tarkhuna beer is ideal for those who enjoy a sweeter, more aromatic beer. Its unique flavor makes it perfect for pairing with lighter Russian dishes like salads, fish, or blini (Russian pancakes).
- Where to Find It: Tarkhuna beer can be found at select craft beer bars and regional breweries in Moscow. Look for it at bars that specialize in Russian craft brews or in markets offering local products.
7. Khamovniki – A Traditional Russian Ale
Khamovniki is a lesser-known, but highly respected, Russian ale that originates from Moscow itself. The name is derived from the Khamovniki district, a historic area in the city. This ale is slightly stronger than a typical lager and features a malt-forward flavor with a mild hop bitterness. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to explore Russian ales beyond the more common lagers.
- Why Try It: Khamovniki is ideal for those who enjoy a more flavorful, ale-style beer. Its malty sweetness and balanced bitterness make it an enjoyable beer for sipping, and it pairs well with classic Russian dishes like beef stroganoff or zakuski (Russian appetizers).
- Where to Find It: Khamovniki can be found in select Moscow pubs that focus on local or craft beer. It’s also available at some specialized beer shops in the city.
8. Zhigulevskoye Export – A Twist on a Classic
For those who enjoy traditional Russian beer but want to try a version with a bit more flavor, Zhigulevskoye Export offers a twist on the classic Zhigulevskoye lager. This variant is slightly bolder, with more pronounced malt and hop flavors. It’s a great option for those who are familiar with the original but want to explore something a bit more complex.
- Why Try It: Zhigulevskoye Export offers a deeper taste than the original, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to experience a more flavorful version of a Russian classic.
- Where to Find It: This variant of Zhigulevskoye can be found in many bars, restaurants, and pubs across Moscow, especially those offering a variety of local beers.
Conclusion
Moscow is a city where history, culture, and flavors come together, and the local beer scene is no exception. From the light, crisp Zhigulevskoye to the bold Russian Imperial Stouts, there’s a wide range of unique and traditional beers to discover. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a craft beer aficionado, Moscow’s diverse beer offerings provide an opportunity to explore Russian brewing traditions and experience the city’s rich culture in a new and exciting way. So, make sure to try these must-try Russian beers during your visit to Moscow and immerse yourself in the local drinking culture. Cheers!