Russian Vodka makes its India pour as ROSIND launches Soyuzprod nationwide

NEW DELHI: Russia is raising a glass to India. In a move aimed at capitalising on India’s fast-expanding premium spirits market, ROSIND has launched Soyuzprod Vodka in the country, bringing an authentic Russian vodka label into a market increasingly driven by premiumisation, experimentation and a growing cocktail culture.

The launch marks a significant step for ROSIND, the official India partner of the Russian Export Center, as it looks to move beyond trade facilitation and establish long-term consumer-facing opportunities for Russian brands in India. The organisation is focusing on building local distribution networks, retail partnerships and sustained brand development across multiple product categories.

India’s vodka market, currently valued at more than Rs 39,000 crore (around US$4.7 billion), is projected to expand to roughly US$7.5 billion by 2034. While domestic labels continue to dominate volumes, demand for premium and imported spirits has been rising steadily as consumers seek greater authenticity, provenance and international drinking experiences.

The timing also reflects strengthening economic ties between India and Russia. Russian spirits exports to India have grown significantly in recent years, with vodka emerging as one of the key growth categories.

“India is one of the most exciting growth markets for premium spirits globally, and consumers today are increasingly seeking authenticity, heritage and quality,” said ROSIND executive director Bobby Kohli. “Soyuzprod embodies the rich tradition of Russian vodka-making while offering a contemporary experience that resonates with modern consumers. Through this launch, we aim to establish Soyuzprod as a credible and accessible Russian vodka brand for India’s evolving premium spirits landscape and build a meaningful presence in the country’s growing premium vodka segment.”

ROSIND’s leadership team includes industry veteran Oleg Kalaev, who previously served as minister of finance, minister of economy, deputy prime minister and first deputy prime minister in the Government of North Ossetia-Alania. The organisation has been working to increase the visibility of Russian consumer brands in India through targeted market-entry strategies.

Soyuzprod arrives with strong heritage credentials. The vodka is produced at the historic Salut Distillery, whose origins date back to 1884. Crafted using carefully selected grains, Lux-grade spirit and glacial water, the brand positions itself as a premium yet accessible offering. Its packaging features a clear-glass bottle, metallic detailing and a prominent crest designed to highlight its Russian roots.

Priced from around Rs 1,000, the brand is expected to compete in India’s growing premium vodka segment, where consumers are increasingly trading up from mass-market labels.

For ROSIND, the launch is about more than adding another imported spirit to shop shelves. It represents a broader ambition to create sustainable pathways for Russian consumer brands in India while tapping into one of the world’s most dynamic alcohol markets. As India’s taste for premium experiences continues to evolve, Soyuzprod is hoping its first pour is only the beginning.