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Cocktails

Irish Russian

Served in a Highball Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic17% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
283 cal17% ABV1.51 US std13.9g sugar21.3g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Easy

Why: 4 ingredients

Best for: Caviar, Chocolate, Dessert

Ingredients

BaseModifierMixer
  • 1 shotVodkaBase
  • 1 shotKahluaModifier
  • 1 dashCoca-ColaMixer
  • Fill withGuinness Stout

How to Make It

  1. Add the ingredients in the order listed in the recipe.
  2. Care must be taken when adding the Guinness to prevent an excess of foam.
  3. Do Not add ice.

Best For

DessertAfter Dinner

Food Pairings

CaviarChocolateCoffee Desserts

Diet & Lifestyle

Vegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.

Swap notes

Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Irish Russian?
The Irish Russian is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 17.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 283 calories.
What does a Irish Russian taste like?
Irish Russian has a flavour profile featuring Cola, Sparkling, Coffee, Roasted. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Irish Russian?
Irish Russian pairs well with Caviar, Chocolate, Coffee Desserts. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Irish Russian?
The Irish Russian has an ABV of approximately 17.0%. That's approximately 1.51 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 283 calories, 13.9g sugar, 21.3g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Irish Russian typically served?
Irish Russian is a popular choice for Dessert, After Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Irish Russian?
If you enjoy Irish Russian, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a Irish Russian at home?
Yes. The Irish Russian uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Irish Russian with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.