Russian winemakers not ready to join elite – taste test results.

Mikhail Nikolaev of Nikolaev & Sons in Russia’s Krasnodar region produces sparkling wine using traditional methods, aiming to rival Champagne. Sanctions have boosted domestic wine sales, with plans to double production by 2032. While Russian wines dominate the market, blind tastings show a preference for Western wines, indicating quality differences despite patriotic support.

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