Black Russian
A minimalist mix of vodka and coffee liqueur that delivers bold, roasty sweetness—essentially a White Russian without the cream.
27%
ABV
208
Calories
Rocks
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2 oz
1 oz
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Add both ingredients to a rocks glass filled with ice
Stir gently to combine
Serve without garnish
Glassware
Served over ice in a rocks glass
Garnish
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use dense, cold ice to minimize dilution
Experiment with higher-proof coffee liqueurs for more intensity
Chill the glass to keep the drink icy
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Black Russian.
White Russian
Velvety vodka and coffee liqueur softened with a cap of cream—an indulgent sipper immortalized by *The Big Lebowski*.
Black Magic
The legendary Mai-Kai Tiki cocktail featuring dark rums, tropical juices, and coffee—a complex, powerful creation representing the pinnacle of Polynesian Pop culture.
Brown Russian
A compelling member of the 'Russian' cocktail family that represents a divergence from its more famous siblings. This variation transforms the simple Black Russian into a more refreshing and nuanced long drink by adding spicy ginger ale for effervescence and complexity.
Irish Russian
A variation of the Black Russian, where the dark, robust character of Guinness stout is used to crown the simple combination of vodka and coffee liqueur.
Brave Bull
A deceptively simple yet potent cocktail that marries the earthy, agave-forward notes of tequila with the rich, sweet complexity of coffee liqueur. This mid-century classic serves as a cultural bridge, introducing Mexican tequila into the popular 'Russian' cocktail template.
Other Variations
Dry Black Russian
Leans boozier with a 3:1 vodka-to-liqueur ratio.
Changes
Sweet Black Russian
Even mix for a sweeter, more coffee-forward sip.
Changes
Dirty Black Russian
Also called a Colorado Bulldog—served tall and topped with cola.
Changes
History & Heritage
“Belgian bartender Gustave Tops created the Black Russian in 1949 at Brussels' Hotel Metropole for U.S. ambassador Perle Mesta. Named for its dark hue and Russian-associated vodka, the drink mirrored Cold War intrigue and swiftly spread through mid-century lounges. Its simple build later inspired the cream-laden White Russian and countless coffee-spiked variations, though the original remains a potent nightcap favored for its stark elegance.”
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Anna Kournikova
A lighter take on the White Russian using skim milk instead of heavy cream—a playful nod to the Russian tennis star's athletic physique.
Brown Russian
A compelling member of the 'Russian' cocktail family that represents a divergence from its more famous siblings. This variation transforms the simple Black Russian into a more refreshing and nuanced long drink by adding spicy ginger ale for effervescence and complexity.
Irish Russian
A variation of the Black Russian, where the dark, robust character of Guinness stout is used to crown the simple combination of vodka and coffee liqueur.