History & Heritage
“The Moscow Mule was created in 1941 at the Cock'n Bull pub on Hollywood's Sunset Strip when bar owner Jack Morgan joined forces with Smirnoff distributor John Martin to sell excess ginger beer and unpopular vodka. Served in distinctive copper mugs, the drink helped introduce vodka to American palates and became a sensation through savvy marketing and early Polaroid photos of celebrities holding the frosty mugs.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Fill a chilled copper mug with ice
Add vodka and lime juice
Top with spicy ginger beer and give a gentle stir
Garnish with a lime wheel and sprig of mint if desired
Glassware
Traditionally served in a frosty copper mug
Garnish
Fresh slice
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use a high-quality, spicy ginger beer for proper kick
Chill the copper mug beforehand to maximize frost
A quick squeeze of lime over the top brightens aromas
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
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Sour
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Bitter
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Strong
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Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Moscow Mule.
Spicy Mule
Muddles jalapeño for fiery heat.
Changes
Apple Mule
Adds fresh apple cider for autumnal sweetness.
Changes
Kentucky Mule
Swaps bourbon for vodka for a sweeter, oak-driven profile.
Changes
London Mule
Uses gin as the base spirit, adding botanical complexity.
Changes
Mexican Mule
Tequila base for agave character (a.k.a. Tequila Mule).
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Dark and Stormy
Trademark Bermudan highball of Gosling's Black Seal rum over fiery ginger beer with a squeeze of lime.
Mexican Mule
Tequila bucks the Moscow Mule template—earthy agave, zesty lime and fiery ginger beer over ice in a frosty copper mug.
Ginger Beer Fizz
Zesty ginger beer brightened with lime and a hint of sweetness.