Black Russian
A minimalist mix of vodka and coffee liqueur that delivers bold, roasty sweetness—essentially a White Russian without the cream.
27%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
rocks
Glass
Flavor Profile
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.”
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
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
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.
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
White Russian
Adds a float of cream for a richer dessert cocktail.
Changes
Dirty Black Russian
Also called a Colorado Bulldog—served tall and topped with cola.
Changes
Black Magic
Adds a dash of lemon juice and a twist for brightness.
Changes
Brown Russian
Topped with ginger ale for a fizzy, spiced lift.
Changes
Irish Russian
A Guinness stout float gives creamy, roasted depth.
Changes
Brave Bull
Swaps tequila for vodka for an earthy, agave profile.
Changes
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.