Black Russian (Caffè Borghetti, Vodka Stoli Gold)

The Black Russian is a cocktail with a Russian soul that combines its most characteristic distillate, namely Vodka, with the sweetness of coffee liqueur. Simple preparation and few ingredients for a drink with a great effect, perfect for after dinner and to be savored slowly in small sips (considering also the robust amount of alcohol). Most likely, the name is inspired by the dark color of coffee and the presence of Vodka, the quintessential spirit of Russia; however, a second theory suggests that the origin of the name can be traced back to the tense period of the Cold War between the United States and Russia, where the latter was considered the dark and dangerous land for the entire West. What we do know for sure today is that the Black Russian is undoubtedly a great classic of mixology, famous and appreciated all over the world.

Despite its Russian inclination, the Black Russian cocktail was invented in 1949 by Gustave Tops, bartender of the Hotel Metropole in Brussels, who created it to welcome the American ambassador during an official visit to Luxembourg. The cocktail was very much appreciated by the representative and quickly gained immense popularity throughout the region. Today it is among the drinks officially recognized by the IBA, the International Bartender Association.

American during an official visit to Luxembourg. The cocktail was very much appreciated by the representative and quickly gained immense popularity throughout the region. Today it is among the drinks officially recognized by the IBA, the International Bartender Association.

The ingredients to prepare a good Black Russian are few, but they must be measured correctly. We need an excellent Vodka, preferably Russian, for this we recommend the Stolichnaya Gold Vodka, and the famous Italian coffee liqueur, Borghetti. First, fill a tumbler or old fashioned glass with plenty of ice. Then pour 5 cl of Vodka to 2 cl of coffee liqueur, stir gently, and the cocktail is created. To your liking, you can garnish with a piece of dark chocolate or decorate with a vanilla stick. The cold and crystalline essence of the Russian distillate combines with the sweet and slightly toasted soul of Borghetti, giving an intense, elegant, and fragrant sip.