Bar launches index-linked cocktails

A London bar is launching a series of index-linked vodka cocktails in a bid to promote Russian business in Britain.

Potemkin, one of the capital's leading vodka bars, has named five cocktails after the top Russian companies currently traded on the London Stock Exchange -- Tatneft, Rostelekom, Evraz, MMC Norilsk Nickel, and Surgutneftegas -- and will adjust alcohol levels according share price performance.

Entrepreneur Roger Shashoua developed the idea to promote his book "Dancing with the Bear" about making money in Russia.

"Most British people are unaware of just how successful Russian businesses are proving to be in London," he said in a statement. "This provides them with an opportunity to do their homework, and eat, drink, and make money."

Potemkin will assess the performance of the five companies on a weekly basis. If their share prices rise, so too will the alcohol used to prepare each cocktail.

The price will remain the same at 4.95 pounds per cocktail, but drinkers should be aware that, just like share values, alcohol content can fall as well as rise.