“Baltika” is an extremely popular beer in Russia and Eastern Europe. I tried it out because it was inexpensive, and because it was described as a “dark lager,” which is one of the less common types of beer. I was expecting something similar to Xingu (a Brazilian black lager), but it was nothing like that. Actually, it was like nothing I have ever tasted before in a beer with the exception of some odd and in my opinion unfortunate home brewing experiments, the kind where your buddy hands you a bottle of his very own swill and you take sip, stifle a grimace and describe it as “interesting”.
Baltika does not really taste like a beer as such. It tastes like slightly carbonated water filtered through raisins and then flavored with molasses. This might appeal to your tastes- it really has to appeal to someone, because like I said it's a popular beer- but I'm afraid it did not appeal to me. If I am ever in Russia, I will drink the vodka before I willingly drink this stuff again, even though vodka has very sinister effects on me.
With the exception of subtle grace notes in the background of certain beers, I do not think of molasses when I think of great beer. I definitely do not think of raisins. If you happen to be a lifelong fan of raisins soaked in molasses, then this beer may well be your dream come true. Otherwise, I'd give it a pass.