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.
26%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
Old Fashioned
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Irish Russian is a modern variation of the Black Russian, which was created in 1949. The 'Irish' component is the addition of a Guinness stout head, which adds a creamy texture and a subtle, roasted bitterness. While its exact origin is undocumented, it likely emerged organically in pubs as a simple, flavorful modification to the classic.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill an Old Fashioned or rocks glass.
Fill the chilled glass with large, clear ice cubes.
Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur directly over the ice.
Stir for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
Gently spoon the creamy, nitrogenated head from the top of a freshly poured Guinness and float it over the surface of the drink.
Glassware
Served in an Old Fashioned or rocks glass
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 only the creamy, nitrogenated head from a can or tap of Guinness Draught for the float, not the liquid beer.
Stir the vodka and coffee liqueur base until well-chilled to achieve a silky texture.
With only three components, the quality of each ingredient is paramount to the final drink.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Irish Russian.
White Russian
A Black Russian with the addition of cream or milk floated on top.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Black Russian
A minimalist mix of vodka and coffee liqueur that delivers bold, roasty sweetness—essentially a White Russian without the cream.
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.