vodka is generally meant to be taken as a shot. same with tequila. that's how you know those types of liquor are a complete joke imo. of course, they're meant to be in cocktails but you know what i mean.
even the most hardcore russians (and ukrainians) i know, hold the bottle in the freezer and take shots instead of sipping on it. because they don't like the taste.
most people i know can and do sip on whiskey and brandy.
in the end, i don't give a shit, i'll drink most alcohol. if you order a shot of vodka, i'm not gonna refuse it. same with tequila.