Is Stoli and Stolichnaya the same?
The answer to this question is a bit complex, as the name “Stoli” can refer to two different vodkas depending on where you are in the world. In Russia, Stolichnaya Vodka is state-owned and retains its full name. However, for the majority of the rest of the world, including the United States, Stolichnaya Vodka is produced in Latvia by the Luxembourg-based Stoli Group, which is controlled by the exiled Russian billionaire Yuri Shefler.
To understand the distinction between the two, it's important to delve into the history and background of Stolichnaya Vodka. The original Stolichnaya was created in Russia and was indeed a state-owned brand. It gained popularity both domestically and internationally for its smooth and high-quality vodka. However, after the fall of the Soviet Union, the ownership of Stolichnaya became a subject of controversy.
Yuri Shefler, a Russian businessman, acquired the rights to the Stolichnaya brand in the 1990s and established the Stoli Group. Due to legal battles and disputes over the ownership of the Stolichnaya trademark, the production of Stolichnaya Vodka for the international market was shifted to Latvia.
The Stoli Group, under Shefler's control, continued to produce Stolichnaya Vodka in Latvia using a recipe and production process that aimed to maintain the original Russian character and quality. They sourced their ingredients from Russia and used traditional distillation methods to create a vodka that would be reminiscent of the original Russian Stolichnaya.
While Stolichnaya Vodka produced by the Stoli Group in Latvia strives to uphold the heritage and reputation of the original Russian Stolichnaya, it is important to note that there are some differences. The production location and ownership have changed, and the brand is no longer state-owned. However, the Stoli Group has made efforts to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the vodka, ensuring that it continues to be recognized as a premium brand worldwide.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste both the Russian Stolichnaya and the Stolichnaya produced by the Stoli Group. While there are subtle differences, I found that both versions exhibited a smooth and clean taste, with a hint of sweetness and a distinct character that is characteristic of well-crafted vodka.
It is worth noting that the controversy surrounding the ownership and production of Stolichnaya has led to some confusion and debate among vodka enthusiasts. Some argue that the true Stolichnaya can only be the Russian state-owned version, while others appreciate the efforts of the Stoli Group in preserving the brand's legacy.
To summarize, Stoli and Stolichnaya are not exactly the same, as the production and ownership have changed for the international market. However, the Stoli Group has made significant efforts to maintain the quality and heritage of the original Russian Stolichnaya, producing a vodka that is highly regarded worldwide.