Good luck finding a beer in Sochi: What's up with Russia's alcohol ban?
Among the world's leading producers of vodka, Russia is king. Dating back to the 14th century, the production of vodka has been the lifeblood of his kingdom. Heck, 'vodka' comes from the Russian word for water.
When Russia is playing host to the Olympic Games, the last thing one might expect in the world's forum for sports and subsequent celebration is sobriety.
But in Sochi, you'll be hard-pressed to find a beer within 160 feet of where you plan to cheer unless nonalcoholic Russian brew Baltika is your flavor.
"Who wants to watch curling sober?" said one Canadian fan to the Wall Street Journal. "No one. I'll tell you that right now."
A Russian federal law passed last year prohibits the sale of alcohol inside sports stadiums and arenas, reports the Journal. This January, a local ordinance banned alcohol sales within 50 meters (roughly 164 feet) of some sports venues.
The Journal reports that the country has been trying to curb consumption among its citizens since 2009 through increased taxes on alcohol sales and restrictions on sales, but Russia still ranked fourth in the world in total alcohol consumption per capita in 2011, according to World Health Organization stats.
Added one government official: "Olympic values are not compatible with the consumption of alcohol."
In stark contrast to Russia's presence in Vancouver four years ago, where at vodka and whiskey freely flowed from imitation gasoline pumps at the country's official receptions, the Kremlin banned alcohol at such events in London two years later.
Mountain Olympic venues aren't subject to restrictions, as the locations are outdoors. The real version of Baltika is offered, as is mulled wine. In the Coastal Cluster, the lone restaurant offers a full bar, and alcoholic beer is also sold at two Coca-Cola food stands.
Of course, the country houses serve alcohol, though entry to these buildings isn't open to the masses of Olympic spectators.
Even Utah's 90-percent-Mormon state legislature bent strict rules when the 2002 Olympics came to town.
International "hospitality houses" were issued liquor permits for the 21-day event, and did not charge Utah's then-typical 'membership' fee for visitors to get into a bar and drink.
To avoid Utah's 'sin taxes', many countries -- including Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland and Italy -- planned to import their own beer, wine, and liquor to the Games that year using the diplomatic pouch privilege.
Under Vienna Convention governance, "under no circumstances [should] host-government officials [be allowed] to x-ray or otherwise inspect or open a diplomatic pouch." Wise, guys.