Moscow Mule

Why is a Moscow Mule always served in copper mugs?

The mule mug is not just for looks—there’s a reason for it. First, copper is excellent at retaining cold, so your drink stays chilled longer. Nobody wants a lukewarm cocktail. Second, the metal interacts with the Vodka, lime, and ginger beer, amplifying the flavors and aromas. So, not only does the copper mug keep your Moscow Mule cool, but it also makes it taste better. Consider it the secret ingredient you never knew you needed.

What’s the best Vodka for a Moscow Mule

The Vodka you choose can make or break the experience. You want something smooth and versatile that complements the zesty lime and spicy ginger beer. Tito’s Handmade Vodka is popular because of its clean taste and affordability. Grey Goose is another solid option for splurging a little, known for its smooth finish. But if you want to keep it authentic, consider using Russian standards; it’s a quality vodka from Russia. However, my personal recommendation? Go with Tito’s. It’s American-made and easy on the wallet.

Best Ginger Beer

Choosing the right ginger beer is crucial for nailing that best Moscow Mule cocktail. You want something with a kick but not too sweet, a brew that can hold its own against Vodka and lime. Fever-Tree is a go-to for many because of its natural ingredients and balanced flavor. Bundaberg is another favorite, especially if you like ginger beer on the sweeter side. But pay attention to smaller brands like Q Ginger Beer, which offers a spicy, more complex profile. If I had to pick one? I’d go with Fever-Tree. It’s versatile widely available, and its zingy flavor plays well with the other ingredients.

What about homemade Ginger Beer?

Sure, store-bought ginger beer is convenient, but have you ever tried making your own? It’s a game-changer. Homemade ginger beer lets you control spice, sweetness, and fizz. Plus, it’s simpler than you might think. For fermentation, you only need fresh ginger, sugar, lemon juice, and a little yeast. In a couple of days, ginger beer will be tailored to your taste buds. It’s perfect for Moscow Mules because you can tweak the flavor until it’s perfect. Trust me, you might never return to the bottled stuff once you go homemade.

What’s a Moscow Mule with Gin? (The London Mule)

You’re inviting more complexity to the party by using Gin instead of Vodka. The herbal and floral notes from the Gin turn the drink into something that resembles a spicier, zestier Gin and tonic. It’s a match that plays exceptionally well with ginger beer and lime, letting each ingredient shine while creating something new. If you’re going this route, consider a gin with a robust botanical profile, like Beefeater or Tanqueray. This cocktail is called London Mule.

What’s a Moscow Mule with Whiskey? (The Kentucky Mule)

Using whiskey, especially bourbon, adds a layer of warmth and depth to the cocktail. The caramel and vanilla notes in the bourbon vibe well with the spiciness of the ginger beer, making the drink richer and more nuanced. If you’re up for the swap, a balanced, easygoing bourbon like Buffalo Trace or Elijah Craig could hit the spot. You’re not just tweaking; you’re opening the door to a new experience. Give it a shot—literally.

Variations

Looking for new versions? Here are several of our top picks:

• Kentucky Mule: Bourbon replaces vodka in this version, bringing a warm, rich depth that contrasts beautifully with the bright, spicy ginger. The addition of bourbon adds a cozy complexity, making it a perfect choice for cooler evenings.
• Mexican Mule: Tequila is used instead of vodka, introducing an earthy, slightly smoky undertone that pairs wonderfully with the ginger’s heat.
• Gin-Gin Mule: Gin adds a botanical twist to this drink, enhancing its refreshing nature. The gin’s herbal notes create a uniquely invigorating sip.
• Watermelon Mule: Fresh watermelon juice is incorporated, offering a sweet, summery flair that’s both delightful and thirst-quenching.
• Spicy Mule: This version features a dash of spicy jalapeño or hot sauce, creating an exciting, fiery kick that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
• Tropical Mule: A mix of tropical fruit juices like pineapple or mango is included, transporting you to a beachside paradise with each sip. The vacation vibe of this drink is particularly appealing, making it like a sunny holiday in a glass.
• Apple Cider Mule: Apple cider is blended in for a fruity, autumnal twist that’s both tart and sweet, perfect for fall gatherings.
• Pomegranate Mule: Pomegranate juice is added, lending a tart, antioxidant-rich zing that complements the ginger’s spiciness.
• Blackberry Mule: Muddled blackberries are mixed in, adding a fruity, slightly tart dimension, creating a visually stunning and deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Coffee Mule: Coffee or espresso is combined in this version, offering a caffeinated, robust twist that’s intriguing and perfect for coffee lovers.
• Mango Mule: Sweet mango juice is featured, bringing a tropical, juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spicy ginger.
• Lavender Mule: Lavender is infused, adding a floral, aromatic quality that’s soothing and elegant.
• Cherry Lime Mule: Cherry juice and extra lime are included, offering a tart, zesty, and fruity combination that’s both refreshing and flavorful.
• Coconut Mule: Coconut water or cream is used, giving a creamy, tropical twist that’s both hydrating and exotic.

History and Origin

The Moscow Mule cocktail has a fascinating history that traces back to the United States in the 1940s. Contrary to its name, the drink doesn’t hail from Russia. Instead, John G. Martin, an executive at a spirits and food distributor, and Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock ‘n’ Bull Tavern in Los Angeles, created it as a marketing strategy. Martin had recently acquired the Smirnoff vodka brand and was looking for ways to popularize Vodka, which was not widely consumed in the U.S. then. Meanwhile, Morgan wanted to move a surplus of homemade ginger beer off the shelves.

The two joined forces and mixed Vodka with ginger beer and lime juice, serving the concoction in a distinctive copper mug to make it stand out. The copper mug became an iconic part of the experience, adding to its allure and marketability.

Their marketing efforts paid off. The Moscow Mule helped propel Vodka into popularity in the United States, making it the go-to spirit for a range of cocktails. The drink became a sensation, especially in Hollywood, and its popularity continues today.