dunno but there is most certainly a difference between vodka made for drinking neat (i.e. for the Russian and similar East European markets) and for mixing (i.e. everywhere else!).
I don't know what you can get in the States, but it is worth finding a Russian (or Ukrainian, or Polish ...) delicatessen and buying what they've got. In a Russian shop you might find Kubanskaya, real Russian Stolichnaya or just ask about what they'd recommend for drinking chilled and neat. While you're there get yourself some rye bread and a jar of dill pickles. Take this little lot home and put the voddie in the freezer.
When the vodka is nice and chilled, cut yourself some thin slices of rye bread and butter them (unsalted butter is good), and some slices of dill pickle: arrange on a plate. Take a shot glass (the sort that is the size of an egg cup) and pour a mouthful of vodka into it.
The next bit is a little tricky, but believe me this is the way to do it ...
1 take vodka tot in right hand
2 take bread or pickle in left hand
3 breath out sharply
4 knock back vodka in one gulp
5 hold bread or pickle up to your nose and inhale gently
6 eat said bread or pickle
7 repeat as necessary.
This is best done just before a meal. If you are in company it is usual to make a toast before each shot.
Ah, happy days (daze) ...
[well, you did ask, LJ]
added after Bri's post - Smirnoff!??!?!?!?!? Neat!!!!!!!!!!??????????GAH! Yuck
