This cocktail is not so named because it originated in, or is particularly popular in Russia. Rather, at the time of its invention -- before the heyday of Finlandia and Absolut, et al -- most Americans associated vodka with being a Russian export. The Cold War also undoubtedly had something to do with the drink's nomer. Legend has it that the Black Russian first appeared in 1949, at the Metropolitan Hotel in Bruxelles. Bartender Gustave Tops created the drink in honor of then US ambassador Pearl Mesta.

Like Black or White Russians?

Click here for our Black Russian and White Russian feature with drink history, trivia and variations.

Fill a rocks glass with ice. Pour in vodka, followed by Kahlua® or other coffee liqueur. Personal preference dictates how this drink should be served -- with a stirrer or swizzle stick for the drinker to mix, or lightly shaken in a cocktail shaker by the bartender before serving.