The White Russian cocktail has been notably renamed the White Ukrainian by at least one bar in Washington, D.C., in a gesture of solidarity.
The Shift to "White Ukrainian"
In response to current geopolitical events, a bar in Washington, D.C., has forgone the classic "White Russian" moniker for its cocktail, adopting the name "White Ukrainian." This change is part of a broader symbolic movement to express support for Ukraine. The same establishment has also renamed its "Moscow Mules" to "Kyiv Mules," further reflecting this sentiment.
Broader Context of Renaming and Boycotts
The renaming of cocktails like the White Russian is indicative of a wider trend where businesses and consumers are shunning products and names associated with Russia. This movement extends beyond just beverages and reflects a desire to express solidarity through economic and symbolic actions.
Examples of Related Boycotts:
- Halting Vodka Sales: Several U.S. states, including Ohio, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Utah, have stopped the sale of Russian vodka in their state-run liquor stores.
- Shunning Russian Products: Consumers and businesses worldwide have been observed avoiding a range of Russian-branded goods and cultural elements, such as ballet performances, as a form of protest.
These acts of renaming and boycotting serve as visible demonstrations of support and protest, with establishments choosing to align their branding with prevailing public sentiment. For more information on this trend, see the report by Fast Company.
Cocktail Renaming Examples
| Original Name | New Name | Context |
|---|---|---|
| White Russian | White Ukrainian | Solidarity with Ukraine |
| Moscow Mule | Kyiv Mule | Solidarity with Ukraine |
This table illustrates the direct renaming efforts observed in establishments aiming to show their support.
