Black Russian
A bold two-ingredient classic combining vodka and coffee liqueur over ice. Rich, smooth and spirit-forward with roasted coffee sweetness and a clean vodka finish.
Black Russian Recipe
- Vodka 50 ml
- Coffee liqueur 20 ml
- Ice 150 g
Make it properly
- Fill a rocks glass generously with ice.
- Pour in 50 ml vodka.
- Add 20 ml coffee liqueur.
- Stir gently until the drink is properly chilled and the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Serve immediately without garnish.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD BLACK RUSSIAN?
A good Black Russian should be rich and coffee-forward while still allowing the vodka to provide structure.
The coffee liqueur brings roasted coffee flavour, sweetness and body, while the vodka keeps the cocktail clean and spirit-driven.
Because there are only two ingredients, balance matters. Too much coffee liqueur can make the drink heavy and overly sweet, while too little leaves it sharp and dominated by vodka.
Plenty of ice provides the dilution needed to soften the drink while keeping it cold and concentrated.
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BLACK RUSSIAN: RECIPE, INGREDIENTS & TIPS
A practical guide to making a classic Black Russian, from choosing the right vodka and coffee liqueur to getting the ratio, dilution and serving temperature right.
THE BEST INGREDIENTS FOR A BLACK RUSSIAN
The Black Russian contains only vodka and coffee liqueur, so the character of both ingredients remains clearly noticeable.
For the vodka, Drinkero recommends a clean premium style such as Absolut Elyx Vodka 42.3% Vol. Its smooth texture and extra strength provide enough structure to balance the sweeter coffee liqueur.
For the second ingredient, choose a quality coffee liqueur with a clear roasted coffee character and enough sweetness to round out the vodka without making the drink syrupy.
The cocktail does not require citrus, syrup or garnish. Its appeal comes from the simple contrast between clean vodka and rich coffee flavour.
HOW TO BALANCE A BLACK RUSSIAN
Our Black Russian uses 50 ml vodka and 20 ml coffee liqueur.
This gives the cocktail a ratio of roughly 2.5 parts vodka to 1 part coffee liqueur, keeping it spirit-forward while providing enough coffee sweetness to soften the vodka.
Using more coffee liqueur creates a sweeter, heavier drink. Reducing it makes the cocktail drier and more vodka-led.
Ice is also an important part of the balance. Gentle dilution softens the alcohol and opens up the coffee aromas without turning the drink thin.
The finished cocktail should taste rich and smooth, with coffee sweetness up front and a clean vodka finish.
THE STORY BEHIND THE BLACK RUSSIAN
The Black Russian was created in Brussels in 1949 by bartender Gustave Tops at the Hotel Metropole.
The cocktail was reportedly made for American diplomat Perle Mesta and combined two ingredients that were particularly distinctive at the time: vodka and coffee liqueur.
Despite the name, the cocktail was not created in Russia. The word “Russian” refers to vodka, while “Black” refers to the dark colour of the coffee liqueur.
Its simple construction helped it become a lasting classic and later inspired the better-known White Russian, which adds cream.
TECHNIQUE: BUILD & STIR
The Black Russian is one of the simplest classic cocktails to prepare.
Fill a rocks glass with ice, add the vodka and coffee liqueur, then stir gently.
There is no need to shake the drink. Stirring keeps the texture smooth while providing enough dilution to soften the alcohol.
Large, solid ice cubes work particularly well because they keep the drink cold while melting more slowly.
HOW TO SERVE A BLACK RUSSIAN
Serve the Black Russian in a rocks glass over plenty of ice.
The drink should be cold, dark and glossy, with the coffee liqueur fully integrated into the vodka.
A classic Black Russian requires no garnish, which keeps the presentation simple and emphasizes its two-ingredient character.
Serving options:
- Classic: Rocks glass over ice, no garnish
- Large cube: Serve over one large clear ice cube for slower dilution
- Drier style: Reduce the coffee liqueur slightly
- Sweeter style: Add a little more coffee liqueur
Questions about the Black Russian
What is a Black Russian made with?
A classic Black Russian combines vodka and coffee liqueur, served over ice.
What vodka should I use?
Drinkero recommends Absolut Elyx Vodka 42.3% Vol. for its smooth texture and enough character to remain present beside the coffee liqueur.
What coffee liqueur should I use?
Choose a quality coffee liqueur with a rich roasted coffee flavour and balanced sweetness.
What is the correct Black Russian ratio?
Our recipe uses 50 ml vodka and 20 ml coffee liqueur.
Does a Black Russian contain cola?
No. A classic Black Russian contains only vodka and coffee liqueur.
What is the difference between a Black Russian and a White Russian?
A Black Russian contains vodka and coffee liqueur. A White Russian adds cream, making it richer and softer.
Should a Black Russian be shaken or stirred?
It should be built directly in the glass and stirred gently over ice.
Does a Black Russian need a garnish?
No. A traditional Black Russian is normally served without garnish.
Is the Black Russian an official IBA cocktail?
Yes. The Black Russian is included in the International Bartenders Association’s official cocktail list as a Contemporary Classic. See the IBA’s official Black Russian recipe for the classic specification.