Russian Roulette
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Russian Roulette
Cocktail recipe

Rating

3.54 / 5
The Russian Roulette cocktail is a fiery and intense drink that combines the bold flavors of sambuca, vodka, and orange liqueur, with a touch of citrus zing from an orange. It is typically served in a shot glass and presented with a dramatic flair, as the sambuca is set ablaze atop a specially prepared orange slice, which sits over the glass. As the flame heats the sambuca, it trickles into the glass, creating a potent and exhilarating mixture that is sure to ignite the senses. The unique presentation, along with the strong herbal and citrus notes, makes the Russian Roulette a memorable choice for those seeking adventure in their drinking experience.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Sambuca
Calories
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237 calories
Alcohol content
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31% | 2.79 units *

Shot glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+

Method
How to make a Russian Roulette

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Poor the vodka and the curaçao into a shooter glass
Take a round slice of orange, peel it, make a hole in the middle of it and put it on the glass
Set fire to the sambuca and gently poor it on the orange slice
The slice will be on fire and the burning Sambuca will drop into the glass down the hole
Eat the slice of orange and then serve

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FAQ's

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of Russian Roulette compare to other cocktails?

The Russian Roulette has an alcohol content of 31%, which places it on the higher end of the spectrum compared to many classic cocktails. For instance, a standard Margarita has an alcohol content of about 26%, while a Long Island Iced Tea can go up to 22%. Therefore, the Russian Roulette is considered a strong cocktail, suitable for those who prefer a drink with a significant kick.

Preparation techniques icon

Why is the Russian Roulette not shaken or stirred?

The Russian Roulette cocktail is neither shaken nor stirred to preserve the distinct layers of the Sambuca, Vodka, and Blue Curaçao. This technique allows each ingredient to maintain its own identity within the glass, providing a unique tasting experience as you drink it. The method of pouring the ingredients carefully over the back of a spoon or directly into the glass helps achieve this layered effect.

Garnishing tips icon

What are some alternative garnishes to use for the Russian Roulette?

Although the Russian Roulette traditionally uses an orange slice as a garnish, you can easily switch it up for variety. Consider garnishing with a lemon twist to add a zesty aroma, or a maraschino cherry for a touch of sweetness. For a more dramatic presentation, a flamed orange zest can bring both flair and a subtly different flavor profile to the cocktail.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the best way to serve the Russian Roulette to enhance its flavors?

To fully enjoy the Russian Roulette, it should be served cold in a shot glass. You might also consider chilling the shot glasses beforehand to ensure the cocktail remains cold longer, enhancing the layered flavor experience. Serving it immediately after preparation will ensure the layers remain distinct and the flavors are at their peak.

Ingredient specifics icon

Can I use an alternative to Blue Curaçao if I don't have it for the Russian Roulette?

Yes, if Blue Curaçao is unavailable, you can substitute it with another orange-flavored liqueur, such as Triple Sec or Cointreau. To mimic the signature blue color of Blue Curaçao, you can add a drop of blue food coloring to the substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may slightly change, but the overall essence of the cocktail should remain intact.

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