Stoli, also known by its original name Stolichnaya, is a world-renowned vodka brand with a rich and complex history. The brand's identity has evolved significantly since its origins in the Soviet Union. While the vodka's recipe and production trace back to 1938, the brand as we know it today is a product of modern history and legal disputes.

The brand's philosophy is centered on its purity and smoothness, which are achieved through a meticulous process of continuous distillation of wheat and rye grains, followed by filtration through active birch charcoal and quartz sand. This process, combined with the use of high-quality ingredients, is a key part of the brand's commitment to delivering a premium product.

In recent years, Stoli has made a concerted effort to distance itself from its Russian roots, which has become a major part of its new brand identity. The Stoli Group, a private company based in Luxembourg, has explicitly stated its opposition to the Russian government's actions in Ukraine. The brand is now produced in Latvia at the historic Latvijas Balzams distillery, reinforcing its commitment to its Eastern European heritage while being politically distinct from Russia.

Stoli's portfolio includes its classic unflavored vodka, a line of flavored vodkas known as Stoli Infusions, and the ultra-premium elit vodka. The brand is known for its versatility in cocktails and its iconic cobalt-blue bottle, which remains a recognizable symbol of its premium quality and heritage.