Tsarskaya Original

Tsarskaya Original (Czar's Original) is a 40% ABV premium Russian grain vodka produced by the St Petersburg-based Ladoga group. Ladoga launched this vodka in 2003 to mark the 300th anniversary of St Petersburg's founding, with a limited, hand-bottled first batch. The recipe was recreated by the group's master distiller based on historical records from the era of Peter the Great. The vodka uses "Lux" grade grain alcohol and water from Lake Ladoga; the alcohol is distilled four times and undergoes an 11-stage purification process.

What does Tsarskaya Original taste like?

In The Vodka Masters 2026 assessment, Tsarskaya Original was described as "creamy and smooth". The vodka has won gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017, scored 94 points at the Beverage Tasting Institute, and won first place in the pure-neutral Russian vodka category at the World Vodka Awards 2017.

How is it served?

Drinking it neat and well chilled in small glasses is the method that best shows its creamy texture. Retailers highlight that Tsarskaya is an ideal accompaniment served alongside caviar. It is also suitable for classic vodka cocktails.

What food does it pair with?

Caviar, smoked salmon and other fish meze are the classic matches. Pickles, cold cuts and meze platters from the Russian table also balance this vodka's creamy structure.