Moskovskaya has been around since 1901, and while the production has long since moved from Russia to Latvia, the recipe remains unchanged. This is a vodka with genuine heritage, even if the modern iteration is decidedly modest in its ambitions.
At 38% ABV, it sits slightly below the standard 40%, which gives it a somewhat lighter body than many competitors. The nose is clean and neutral — exactly what you want from a mixing vodka — with just a faint grainy sweetness and a whisper of white pepper.
On the palate, Moskovskaya is smooth and inoffensive. There is a gentle grain character and a mild sweetness that makes it perfectly serviceable in a Moscow Mule or a simple vodka tonic. The finish is short and clean, which again points to its strengths as a mixer rather than a sipper.
At £20.95, this is solid value for a vodka with genuine pedigree. It will not blow your mind, but it will not let you down either. A reliable workhorse for the drinks cabinet.
