Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe

A Moscow Mule is a timeless cocktail that combines the crisp taste of vodka, the spicy bite of ginger beer, and the zesty kick of lime. This delightful mix is served in a copper mug, enhancing the refreshing experience. Despite its name, the Moscow Mule was created in Los Angeles in the 1940s.

To make a classic Moscow Mule, you’ll need:

Vodka
Ginger beer
Fresh lime juice
Ice cubes
Lime wedge for garnish (optional)

This fizzy and spicy drink is perfect for any occasion. The copper mug isn’t just for aesthetics; it keeps your drink colder for longer. Explore the variations and history of this drink as you sip on this refreshing cocktail.

Equipment

To prepare a Moscow Mule, you’ll need the following items:

Copper mug (optional, but traditional)
Cocktail shaker (for mixing, if desired)
Jigger (for measuring ingredients)
Bar spoon (for stirring)
Ice (crushed or in cubes)

The copper mug keeps your drink icy cold, enhancing the experience. If you don’t have a shaker, a simple stir will suffice. Measuring tools like a jigger ensure you get the proportions just right.

Ingredients

To make a Moscow Mule, you need a few simple ingredients. Gather the following for one serving:

2 ounces vodka
4 ounces ginger beer
0.5 ounce fresh lime juice
Ice (enough to fill your mug)
Lime wheel or wedge for garnish
Mint sprig (optional)

Use quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh lime juice makes a huge difference compared to bottled versions.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make a Moscow Mule:

Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
Pour in 2 ounces of vodka.
Add 0.5 ounce of fresh lime juice.
Top off with 4 ounces of ginger beer.
Stir gently with a bar spoon to mix.
Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge. Add a mint sprig if you like.

The drink should be served immediately to keep it cold and refreshing.

Tasting Notes

A well-made Moscow Mule is crisp and invigorating. The ginger beer provides a spicy zing, balanced by the smoothness of vodka. Fresh lime juice adds a hint of citrus, making the drink refreshing. Each sip offers a blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Served in a chilled copper mug, it enhances the overall sensory experience.

Similar Cocktails

Moscow Mule lovers might enjoy these variations:

Kentucky Mule (substitute vodka with bourbon)
Mexican Mule (use tequila in place of vodka)
Gin Gin Mule (gin offers a botanical twist)

Each variant maintains the core elements of ginger beer and lime juice, allowing you to explore different flavor profiles.

History

The Moscow Mule has an intriguing history that dates back to the 1940s. Contrary to its name, it was created in Los Angeles, not Moscow. Three individuals – a vodka distributor, a ginger beer producer, and a bar owner – combined their products to boost sales. The marketing involved serving the drink in copper mugs, which became an iconic feature.