How To Make A Moscow Mule

What’s in a Moscow mule?

A Moscow Mule is a timeless cocktail that originated in the 1940s and is made with vodka and ginger beer. It belongs to a category of cocktails called “bucks,” which are drinks that consist of liquor, ginger ale or ginger beer, and citrus juice. Thus, it is also referred to as a vodka buck. The official recipe of a Moscow Mule includes three simple ingredients: vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.

How to make a Moscow mule

Making a Moscow Mule is a straightforward process that requires just a few simple steps. Since the carbonation in ginger beer is the star of the show, this cocktail is not mixed in a shaker. Instead, it is built inside a copper mug over ice to preserve the bubbles, making it one of the easiest cocktails to prepare. Here’s how to make your own Moscow Mule:

1. Start by pouring 2 ounces of vodka and ½ ounce of lime juice into a copper mug.
2. Next, add 4 ounces of ginger beer to the mug, pouring it gently to avoid losing the carbonation.
3. Give the ingredients a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine them.
4. Add ice cubes to the mug, filling it to the top.
5. Finally, garnish your Moscow Mule with a wedge of lime or a sprig of mint for an extra burst of flavor.

Why are Moscow mules served in copper mugs?

Why are Moscow Mules traditionally served in copper mugs? While it is not necessary to serve the cocktail in copper, there are a few reasons why it has become the traditional choice for this drink:

Firstly, copper has a unique ability to keep the drink cool due to its thermal conductivity. As soon as the drink is poured into the copper mug, the metal takes on the temperature of the liquid, making it feel cooler to the touch. This cool sensation can enhance the overall enjoyment of the drink, giving it an extra refreshing quality.

Secondly, serving Moscow Mules in copper mugs is a nod to the cocktail’s history and tradition. The Moscow Mule was originally created in the 1940s as a marketing ploy by Smirnoff executive John Martin and his friend John Morgan, who wanted to sell more vodka, ginger beer, and copper mugs. The cocktail gained popularity in Hollywood, where celebrities were often seen drinking it in copper mugs. Over time, this has become the traditional way to serve the cocktail, and has become a recognizable part of its image and appeal.

Where to find copper mugs for Moscow mule

A good copper mug can keep your drink icy cold and enhance the flavor, making it a must-have for any home bar. However, not all copper mugs are created equal. To get the best possible results, it’s important to choose a mug that is made of solid copper, rather than one with a copper veneer. This is the only way to ensure that your drink will stay perfectly chilled and refreshing.

If you’re in the market for a set of copper mugs for your Moscow Mules, there are many options available. While the mugs used in our photos may no longer be available, there are many similar solid copper Moscow Mule mugs on the market that will do the job just as well.

Best vodka for a Moscow mule

When it comes to making a Moscow Mule, choosing the right vodka can make all the difference. But what is the best vodka for this classic cocktail? While personal preferences may vary, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind when selecting a vodka to use in your Moscow Mule.

As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to use a mid-priced vodka for this cocktail. Very inexpensive or high-end vodka may not be the best choice, as the bold flavors of ginger beer and lime can easily overpower the subtleties of a high-quality vodka.

However, this doesn’t mean you should opt for the cheapest vodka available. Low quality vodka can ruin the drink, so it’s important to choose a brand that strikes the right balance between quality and affordability. Vodkas in the $20-$30 per 750 ml bottle range are often a good choice for making Moscow Mules, as they offer a good balance between quality and value.

Some popular brands that work well in a Moscow Mule include Tito’s, Smirnoff, and Grey Goose, among others. Ultimately, the key is to choose a vodka that is smooth and clean-tasting, with a neutral flavor profile that won’t clash with the other ingredients in the cocktail. By following these guidelines and experimenting with different vodkas, you can find the perfect one to use in your Moscow Mule and take your cocktail game to the next level.

Best ginger beer for a Moscow mule

Here are a few ginger beer brands that we recommend:

1. Q Ginger Beer: Q brand ginger beer is a popular choice among Moscow Mule enthusiasts. It has a great flavor and is made with real ginger. One of the unique features of Q Ginger Beer is that it comes in small cans, which means you don’t have to open a large bottle if you just want to make one or two cocktails. This can be a big plus if you’re not planning on making a lot of Moscow Mules at once.
2. Fever Tree Ginger Beer: Fever Tree is another popular brand of ginger beer that is known for its high-quality ingredients and great flavor. Like Q Ginger Beer, Fever Tree is made with real ginger and contains no artificial sweeteners. It’s a great option for those who want a classic Moscow Mule flavor.
3. Other Ginger Beer Brands: If you’re looking to try something new or want to see what other ginger beer brands are available, there are many options to choose from. Some other popular ginger beer brands include Bundaberg, Gosling’s,and Cock’n Bull. Each of these brands has its own unique flavor profile and may appeal to different tastes. Bundaberg, for example, is made with Australian ginger and has a slightly sweeter taste than some other brands. Gosling’s is a Bermuda-based brand that has been around since the early 1900s and is known for its spicy flavor. Cock’n Bull is the brand that originally popularized the Moscow Mule cocktail and is still a popular choice for many cocktail enthusiasts.

Variations on the mule

The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades, but did you know that there are endless variations on this popular drink? With a little creativity, you can create a whole range of mules that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of our favorite variations:

Kentucky Mule

For a whiskey-forward variation, swap the vodka for bourbon. This gives the drink a rich, smoky flavor that’s perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.

Mexican Mule

For a south-of-the-border twist, substitute tequila for the vodka. This gives the drink a bright, zesty flavor that’s perfect for a summer afternoon.

Gin Gin Mule

This modern classic is a mashup of a mule and a mojito. Swap the vodka for gin and add fresh mint leaves for a refreshing and herbaceous twist on the original.

Dark and Stormy

This classic cocktail is made with dark rum and ginger beer in a highball glass. It’s a perfect option for those who prefer a darker, spicier flavor profile.

Mezcal Mule

For a smoky twist on the mule, use a combination of tequila and mezcal. This gives the drink a unique and complex flavor that’s perfect for sipping on a cool evening.

Irish Mule

For a spicy finish, swap the vodka for Irish whiskey. This gives the drink a rich, warming flavor thatis perfect for sipping on a chilly night. The spicy finish of the whiskey is a great complement to the ginger beer and lime juice.

Watermelon Mule or Apple Cider Mule: These seasonal spins on the classic mule let you enjoy the drink all year long. For a summery twist, add watermelon juice to the mix. Or, for a fall-inspired variation, add apple cider to the traditional mix of ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka. These variations are perfect for adding a seasonal touch to your drink menu.

Conclusion

FAQs of How to make Moscow mule

Can I use ginger ale instead of ginger beer for ming Moscow mule?

A: It is not recommended as ginger ale does not have the same strong ginger flavor as ginger beer.

How much lime juice should I use?

A: Use 1/2 oz of lime juice for every 2 oz of vodka.

Can I use lime cordial instead of lime juice?

A: It is not recommended as lime cordial is sweeter and may alter the taste of the cocktail.

Can I add other ingredients to the cocktail?

A: Yes, you can add a splash of bitters or a small amount of simple syrup to the cocktail for added flavor.

What type of glass should I use for mule cocktail?

A: Use a copper mug to serve the Moscow Mule.

Can I garnish the cocktail?

A: Yes, you can garnish the Moscow Mulewith a lime wedge or slice and a sprig of mint.

Can I make the cocktail ahead of time?

A: It is best to make the Moscow Mule fresh and serve it immediately.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the cocktail?

A: Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by substituting the vodka with ginger ale or ginger beer and omitting the alcohol.

Can I adjust the sweetness level of the cocktail?

A: Yes, you can adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less ginger beer or simple syrup to taste.

Can I customize the recipe?

A: Yes, you can customize the recipe by using flavored vodka or adding other ingredients such as fruit puree or herbs to the cocktail.

What are some variations of the Moscow Mule?

A: Variations of the Moscow Mule include the Kentucky Mule (made with bourbon instead of vodka) and the Mexican Mule (made with tequila instead of vodka).