Balalaika（バラライカ）
The White Lady's vodka twin — lemon and Cointreau on a Russian instrument's name.
01Recipe
Recommended recipe
House spec — an editorial spec drawing on the sourced versions below.
| Ingredient | Measure |
|---|---|
| Vodka | 40 ml |
| Cointreau | 20 ml |
| Fresh lemon juice | 20 ml |
Total volume (pre-dilution)
2 : 1 : 1
- 01
Shake all ingredients hard with ice.
- 02
Double-strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish — Lemon twist
02Taste profile
- Sweetness
- 45Moderate
- Sourness*
- 89Intense
- Bitterness
- 20Light
- Fruitiness
- 50Moderate
- Herbal*
- 0Faint
- Alcohol
- 55Moderate
- Crisp
- 60Strong
Independent editorial scores, 0–100. *Estimated from the ingredient list — a profile sketch, not a verdict.
03History
Early 20th century — the gin version (White Lady / Chelsea Sidecar) circulated London and Paris; vodka took the base as Russian spirit fashion spread west.
Named for the balalaika, the triangular Russian lute — Cold War-era menus loved the Russian branding.
Listed among the IBA's official cocktails (New Era Drinks).
Origin contested — the entry keeps verified record and received legend distinct.
Sources — IBA Official Cocktails
05Variations
- OriginWhite LadyThe gin original
- SimilarKamikazeLime-for-lemon vodka sibling
- SimilarSidecarThe brandy template
06The map
Ingredients
Spirits
