The political power couple of Frank and Claire Underwood have returned to small screens everywhere with the debut of season three of Netflix’s Emmy-winning House of Cards.

In one particular episode, President Underwood is taught to drink like a Russian by President Victor Petrov. President Petrov is at the White House to discuss military compromises, but things get a little less hostile after solid gold bottles of vodka are presented that are reportedly worth about $750,000 each.  

After the bottles are presented at the table, President Petrov leads the guests through a series of toasts and shots done the traditional Russian way:

1. A short toast is made.
2. Drink!
3. Sniff the bread.
4. Say, “Nu” (“So”), then whistle.
5. Exhale loudly, sniff your shirt sleeve.
6. Eat the pickle.
7. Repeat the ritual 2 or 3 more times and then take a break.

In order to truly drink like Russians, it is tantamount to stick to strictly vodka during your night and take it as shots, don’t sip. This ritual is always done in the company of friends or family, never alone, and, of course, EAT in between each shot. A toast to House of Cards for teaching us how to properly drink like Russians!

Photo via Flickr