WHITE RUSSIAN
The White Russian: From Obscurity to Cult Classic
The White Russian emerged in the 1960s as a variation of the Black Russian, which was created in 1949. The addition of cream transformed the simple vodka-and-Kahlúa combination into a richer, more indulgent cocktail, though the exact creator remains unknown, according to Liquor.com.
The cocktail combines vodka with Kahlúa coffee liqueur and heavy cream (or milk). This pairing creates a sweet, creamy drink where the coffee liqueur's richness is softened by dairy while vodka provides the alcoholic backbone, as noted in Difford's Guide.
The White Russian gained moderate popularity in the 1960s and 1970s but fell out of fashion during the 1980s as lighter cocktails became preferred. The drink experienced an unexpected revival after the 1998 film The Big Lebowski, where Jeff Bridges' character "The Dude" drinks White Russians throughout the movie, according to Punch.
The film's cult status turned the White Russian into a cultural icon, with the drink becoming permanently associated with The Dude's laid-back lifestyle. Today the White Russian remains popular as both a dessert cocktail and a nostalgic reference to the beloved film, with annual Lebowski Fest celebrations featuring the drink prominently.
RECIPE:
2 oz vodka
1 oz Kahlúa
1 oz heavy cream (or milk)
Method:
Add vodka and Kahlúa to a rocks glass filled with ice.
Stir to combine.
Pour cream over the top (can be gently stirred or left layered).
*Some prefer to shake all ingredients with ice and strain into the glass.