Although physically in Eastern Europe, Russia is a classic “Northern” drinking culture, as are, for instance, other Eastern European countries, Germany, the Netherlands, and the Scandinavian countries. Historically speaking, these cultures do not drink as much at home or with meals. Alcohol tends to be strictly forbidden to children, who come to think of it as an adult and somewhat taboo substance. Drinking as a primary activity, separate from mealtimes, is more common. Distilled spirits are frequently mixed in with the beer and/or wine, and may even replace them entirely. Northern drinking
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