3 parts vodka
2 parts coffee liqueur

The Black Russian is a cocktail that consists of vodka and coffee liqueur. The typical mixing ratio for the drink is three parts vodka to two parts liqueur, but it can also be made using five parts vodka to two parts liqueur. The second option being the IBA specifications for the drink and the first found standard on any Kahlua bottle.

This drink can be poured over ice cubes or cracked ice and should always be served in an old fashion glass for traditional presentation.

The Black Russian first appeared around 1949 and its creation is credited to a Belgian barman who is said to have created the concoction at Hotel Metropole in Brussels to honour the US ambassador to Luxembourg, Perle Mesta.

The name itself was derived from the stereotype attached to vodka being a Russian drink and to the dark black colour the coffee liqueur created when mixed in.

A simple variation would be the Tall Black Russian that consists of the same ratio of ingredients with the exception of it being poured into a taller glass then topped with a cola to finish filling it.

In Ireland, the drink is often topped off with a bit of Guinness in place of cola to create a very unique flavour and local favourite.

Just about all cultures have the Black Russian and have contributed their slight variations to the mix to create a local speciality. All still have that one common element, however; the beautiful rich colour that is created.