My Bar Bible / Cocktails / Espresso Martini vs White Russian
Espresso Martini vs White Russian
What is the difference between a Espresso Martini and a White Russian? Here are both recipes side by side, with exact measures, and what actually sets them apart.
The difference
- Both use vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Only the Espresso Martini has simple syrup and espresso.
- Only the White Russian has fresh cream.
- The Espresso Martini is shaken, the White Russian is built.
- The Espresso Martini goes in a coupe, the White Russian in a rocks glass.
- The White Russian is the stronger drink: about 21% against about 17% once diluted.
Espresso Martini
| Vodka | 50 ml |
| Coffee liqueur | 30 ml |
| Simple syrup | 10 ml |
| Espresso | 30 ml |
Dick Bradsell, London, late 1980s. Made for a guest who wanted to be woken up.
White Russian
| Vodka | 50 ml |
| Coffee liqueur | 20 ml |
| Fresh cream | 30 ml |
The Black Russian with cream, made famous again by the film The Big Lebowski.