Witness the White Russian Revenue Dare to Compare New Recipes or Promote the Standards for Success
By Taylor Rau
White Russians. Men and women love them, and it’s no wonder why.
They’re delectably smooth, easy to drink and they delightfully deliver
the signature social boost for which quality libations are renowned.
Today’s spirits scene is akin to a crowded metropolitan area — dense,
heavy with traffic and full of options on where to go. Recipes abound;
it’s a simple fact. However, the White Russian prevails in the category
of milk-centered cocktails. It stands alone, and while the specific
calls for it at the bar add up, sales are increased as evidenced by the
closing-up register tally. Why not promote them?
While there is a standard for the classic White Russian, today’s
innovative spirits allow for increased cocktail creativity, and there
is more leeway than ever as to what a guest might judge as the perfect,
best-tasting White Russian. Capitalize on that. Enjoy today’s
variations and patrons will, too. Have fun with the libation behind the
bar, and consider its options. The following recipes are indicative of
what’s possible, and taking the old standby seriously will result in
revenue when done with enthusiasm. Although the Cosmo still remains a
boon to the bar business, does it have the gender-reaching clout of the
White Russian? The results will speak for themselves.
Black White Russian
Bucket glass, ice
Build in glass.
1.5 ounces Blavod Black Vodka
1.5 ounces Kahlúa
3/4 ounce milk
The following recipes are courtesy of Robert Plotkin, industry
expert/consultant with BarMedia and author of “The Original Guide to
American Cocktails and Drinks,” edition No. 5 of “The Bartender’s
Companion.”
Vanilla White Russian
Bucket glass, ice
Build in glass.
1.5 ounces of Absolut Vanilia Vodka
1.5 ounces of Kahlúa
3/4 ounce milk
Truffle White Russian
Bucket glass, ice
Build in glass.
1.5 ounces raspberry vodka
1.5 ounces Kahlúa
3/4 ounce White Crème de Cacao
3/4 ounce milk
White Hawaiian
Rocks glass, ice
Pour ingredients into iced mixing glass. Build in glass.
2 ounces Pearl Lo Coco Vodka
1 ounce Kahlúa
1 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
White Heart
Use a cocktail or house specialty glass, chilled
Pour the following ingredients into an iced mixing glass.
3/4 ounce Sambuca
3/4 ounce White Crème de Cacao
2 ounces half & half cream
Shake and strain.
White Russians. Men and women love them, and it’s no wonder why.
They’re delectably smooth, easy to drink and they delightfully deliver
the signature social boost for which quality libations are renowned. 
