White Russian and Black Russian

Even though you might think so, the cocktail White Russian is not originating from Russia (or Belarus). According to The Oxford English Dictionary the cocktail is mentioned for the first time in the Oakland Tribune way back in 1965.

Back then, during the russian civil war, there was a group of anti-bolshevik group, called “The White Russians“, and that’s where the name of the cocktail got it’s name.

The White Russian is a rather heavy cocktail, suitable for consumption after a good meal, and is indeed on IBA’s After Dinner-list. It is quite easy to mix and takes only a few ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 5 cl vodka
  • 2 cl coffee liqueur (e.g. Kahlua or Tia Maria)
  • 3 cl cream (or milk)
  • Ice cubes

(Personally I think cream makes the cocktail too heavy and I prefer to use milk instead – usually whole milk)

Instructions

  1. Vodka and coffee liqueur is poured in an old fashioned glass.
  2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
    1. (You know have a Black Russian)
  3. Top up the glass with cream/milk – pour it very carefully over the back of a bar spoon, creating a layer on top of the drink.
    1. (You know have a White Russian)
  4. Upon serving, gently stir the drink in front of the customer, just a few swirls for effect.

Video guide

Official IBA cocktail: White Russian

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *