The Most Popular Russian Cocktails and How They Are Made

Russian cuisine is not just about hearty dishes and pastries; it also boasts a rich tradition of drinks, including a wide variety of unique and delicious cocktails. While Russia is perhaps most famous for its vodka, the country has also developed a number of signature cocktails, some of which are enjoyed across the globe. Whether you’re in a Moscow bar or exploring Russian drink culture from afar, here are some of the most popular Russian cocktails you need to try and how to make them.

1. Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule is one of the most iconic Russian cocktails, known for its refreshing taste and its association with the country’s beloved vodka. Despite its name, the Moscow Mule was actually created in the United States in the 1940s but quickly gained popularity thanks to its easy-to-drink profile and use of Russian vodka.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka (preferably Russian)
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge for garnish
• Mint sprig (optional, for garnish)

How to Make It:

1. Fill a copper mug (or any glass) with ice cubes.
2. Pour the vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer into the glass.
3. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a mint sprig (optional).

The Moscow Mule is best served in a copper mug, which helps keep the drink cool and adds a traditional touch. It’s known for its tangy and spicy kick, thanks to the ginger beer, and the lime juice balances the strong vodka flavor.

2. White Russian

The White Russian is another cocktail made with vodka that became famous around the world, especially after being prominently featured in the cult film The Big Lebowski. This rich and creamy cocktail is a favorite in Russia and beyond, perfect for those who prefer a smooth, dessert-like drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
• 1 oz heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• Ice cubes

How to Make It:

1. Fill a lowball glass with ice.
2. Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur into the glass.
3. Gently add the heavy cream on top, allowing it to float over the other ingredients.
4. Stir if desired or enjoy it layered.

The White Russian is known for its creamy, slightly sweet flavor with the bold taste of coffee liqueur balancing the richness. It’s a popular choice for dessert lovers or anyone seeking a relaxing, easy-to-drink cocktail.

3. Black Russian

The Black Russian is a simple yet delicious cocktail that also features vodka, but with just a splash of coffee liqueur. It’s a popular drink in Russia and has an elegant, no-nonsense profile for those who appreciate strong flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or similar)
• Ice cubes

How to Make It:

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
2. Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur into the glass.
3. Stir gently to combine.

The Black Russian is a smooth, strong cocktail that focuses on the flavors of vodka and coffee liqueur. It’s an ideal drink for those who like a simple, straightforward cocktail without too much sweetness.

4. Siberian Snowstorm

The Siberian Snowstorm is a modern Russian cocktail with a unique combination of vodka, cranberry juice, and citrus. The drink is refreshing and colorful, making it a visually appealing option at any party or bar.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka (preferably Russian)
• 3 oz cranberry juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
• Lime wedge for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Rim the glass with sugar (optional) by moistening the rim with lime juice and dipping it in sugar.
2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice into the glass.
4. Stir well and garnish with a lime wedge.

The Siberian Snowstorm is a tart and refreshing cocktail with a vibrant red hue, perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and sour flavors. It has a light, crisp profile, making it an excellent choice for daytime gatherings or casual events.

5. Russian Spring Punch

The Russian Spring Punch is a fruity and effervescent cocktail that blends vodka with fresh citrus and champagne. It’s a celebratory drink that adds a bit of Russian flair to any party or gathering, often served during holidays or festive occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz champagne (or sparkling wine)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.
3. Shake well and strain into a chilled flute glass.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Russian Spring Punch is light, refreshing, and full of bright citrus flavors with a fizzy finish from the champagne. It’s a perfect cocktail for toasting and celebrating.

6. Vesper Martini (Russian Twist)

The Vesper Martini is famously associated with James Bond, but it has a Russian twist in its use of Russian vodka instead of gin. This martini-style cocktail is bold and sophisticated, offering a unique take on the traditional martini.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka (preferably Russian)
• 1 oz gin
• 0.5 oz Lillet Blanc (or dry vermouth)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon peel for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, gin, and Lillet Blanc.
3. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

The Vesper Martini is a strong, crisp cocktail that balances the flavors of vodka, gin, and a touch of vermouth. It’s a sophisticated choice for those who enjoy classic cocktails with a modern twist.

7. Russian Sangria

A refreshing, fruit-infused variation of traditional sangria, Russian Sangria adds vodka for a Russian flair. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, offering a sweet and fruity flavor profile balanced with the smoothness of vodka.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz red wine (dry red is preferred)
• 1 oz orange juice
• 1 oz lemon juice
• Slices of fruit (oranges, lemons, apples, berries)
• Ice cubes

How to Make It:

1. In a pitcher, combine the vodka, red wine, orange juice, and lemon juice.
2. Add the fruit slices and stir gently.
3. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors blend.
4. Serve chilled over ice.

Russian Sangria is a sweet, refreshing, and vibrant drink, ideal for summer picnics, BBQs, or casual get-togethers. The vodka adds a unique depth to the traditional sangria, creating a balanced and flavorful cocktail.

8. Zubrovka and Tonic

Zubrovka, also known as Bison Grass Vodka, is a flavored vodka that originates from Poland but is very popular in Russia. This unique vodka is infused with bison grass, which gives it a distinctive herbal, slightly vanilla flavor. When paired with tonic, it creates a simple but aromatic drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Zubrovka vodka
• 4 oz tonic water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slice for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour the Zubrovka vodka over the ice.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Garnish with a slice of lemon.

Zubrovka and tonic is a refreshing, easy-to-drink cocktail with a hint of herbal flavor and a zesty finish. It’s a great way to experience the unique flavor of bison grass vodka, with a subtle balance of bitterness from the tonic.

Conclusion

Russian cocktails are as varied as the country itself, ranging from the refreshing Moscow Mule to the creamy richness of the White Russian. Whether you’re looking for something simple and effervescent or something bold and sophisticated, there’s a Russian cocktail to suit every taste. Vodka plays a prominent role in many of these drinks, reflecting Russia’s deep connection to the spirit. So, the next time you’re in Russia (or at a bar serving Russian-inspired cocktails), make sure to try one of these classic drinks and experience the country’s unique flavors in a glass.