Ingredients
Method
- Fill an old fashioned glass with ice.
- Pour in vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Stir gently until chilled and slightly diluted.
- Garnish with a cherry or orange twist if desired. Serve immediately.
The Black Russian is a cocktail that proves less is more. With just two ingredients — vodka and coffee liqueur — it’s a short, intense drink that’s stood the test of time. Dark, mysterious, and full of character, it’s the ideal cocktail for evening sipping or a quiet night in. And when made with ultra-smooth Illadelph Organic Vodka, it becomes a masterclass in balance and clarity.
The Black Russian was created in 1949 by Belgian bartender Gustave Tops at the Hotel Metropole in Brussels. He made it in honor of Perle Mesta, the American ambassador to Luxembourg, and a legendary socialite of the post-war era.
Though the cocktail has no actual Russian origin, the name comes from its two key components: vodka (a classic Russian spirit) and the deep, dark hue of the coffee liqueur.
The Black Russian gained notoriety in the 1950s and later evolved into the more famous White Russian — especially after The Big Lebowski. But many purists, bartenders, and cocktail connoisseurs still prefer the original — bold, minimal, and uncompromising. Johnny Depp and Madonna have both been associated with this drink during their darker, edgier nightlife moments.
With just two ingredients, the Black Russian leaves no room for mediocre spirits. Illadelph Organic Vodka is exceptionally smooth and clean, elevating the cocktail’s depth without harsh notes. It blends beautifully with the rich coffee liqueur, delivering a crisp yet mellow finish.
Whether you’re new to vodka cocktails or a seasoned fan, the Black Russian made with Illadelph Vodka is the bold, minimalist drink you didn’t know you needed.
A Black Russian is a bold, two-ingredient cocktail made with vodka and coffee liqueur. It’s smooth, dark, and perfect for slow evening sipping.
The “black” refers to the deep color from coffee liqueur, and “Russian” refers to the use of vodka, which has strong cultural associations with Russia.
Since the recipe is extremely simple, vodka quality makes a big impact. A smooth premium vodka like Illadelph Organic Vodka keeps the drink clean and balanced.
Yes — it’s all alcohol, no mixers. The coffee liqueur softens the flavor a bit, but it remains a spirit-forward drink.
Traditionally in a rocks glass over ice. Large, slow-melting cubes are ideal to keep the texture silky.
A White Russian includes cream or half-and-half, making it richer and dessert-like. The Black Russian stays bold and minimalistic.
Absolutely. Increase or reduce the coffee liqueur depending on how sweet you prefer your drinks.
Add cola to create a “Dirty Black Russian,” or a splash of espresso for a more intense coffee kick.
It’s better built per glass, but batching works if you keep it chilled and pour over fresh ice when serving.
You can combine cold brew coffee with a touch of coffee syrup and serve over ice — the flavor profile stays dark and smooth.
It complements chocolate desserts, roasted nuts, and late-night lounge snacks — a great after-dinner drink.
With only two ingredients, there’s nothing to hide flaws. Clean vodkas like Illadelph ensure a silky finish and better balance with coffee flavors.
