Drink a Moscow Mule Because, Well, Russia

Moscow Mule, the delicious cocktail was created in America, but it has its origins in Russia. The drink can be enjoyed all year long, but they are especially delicious during the summer months.

So, why should you drink a Moscow Mule? This drink is made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. There’s something about it that just makes you feel like you’re taking part in history. Maybe it’s the copper mug or the fact about its origin.

But whatever it is, we know you’ll love it!

History Of Moscow Mule

Moscow mules were first created by John Martin of G.F. Heublein & Bros., Inc., who was looking for ways to popularize his company’s vodka among Americans.  He later partnered with Jack Morgan, owner of the Cock ‘n’ Bull restaurant on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. The two men were responsible for popularizing Moscow mules and dark rum cocktails, such as the Dark & Stormy.

The history of Moscow mules has been disputed by those who believe it was invented in New York City at the Chatham Hotel.  There are several stories that claim this is true; one involves a man who was unhappy with his Manhattan and asked for something different, to which the bartender replied “That’s a Moscow Mule.”

The history of the copper mug is not clear; however, it has been suggested that Morgan had excess copper mugs made to promote his pub and that Martin used them as the drink’s serving vessel, believing the metal would help keep it cold.

Ingredients And Recipe Of A Moscow Mule

The drink, Moscow Mule, that reminds you of Russia can be made following some simple steps. It can also be made in larger batches for parties or get-togethers simply at home.

Ingredients that are must need to make it are:

Recipe to make a classic Moscow Mule: 

Fill a copper mug with fresh ice cubes. Add vodka, then top with ginger beer and lime juice. Stir well to combine and multiply the ingredients by the number of guests you’re serving and mix in a large pitcher.

LEARN MORE: Lemon Zipper Vodka Cocktail

Variations In The Moscow Mule Recipe

There are several Moscow mule variations, including:

  • Moscow Mule with Ginger Ale instead of ginger beer. It is a simple Moscow Mule recipe that uses ginger ale in place of ginger beer. This is perfect if you can’t find it at the store or want to make a low sugar Moscow Mule! 
  • Moscow Mule with Cranberry Juice. It is a simple Moscow Mule recipe that uses cranberry juice as the mixer! This Moscow mule variation is delicious and festive for parties or holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year, etc.
  • Moscow Mules with Orange Juice are Moscow mules made with orange juice instead of lime juice.
  • Moscow Mules Mocktail Version has no alcohol in it. People love this Moscow Mule recipe! To make it, just omit the vodka and increase the ginger beer by half.
  • Strawberry Moscow Mules are a delicious Moscow Mule Recipe variation made with fresh strawberries and mint leaves instead of lime juice.
  • Spicy Moscow Mules use jalapeno pepper to give them a kick! This is a fun Moscow Mule recipe variation for those that like things a little spicy.
  • Moscow Mules with Mint Leaves are Moscow Mules made with fresh mint leaves added to the drink. This is a delicious, refreshing Moscow Mule variation!
  • Peach Moscow Mules are a yummy twist on the classic Moscow mule recipe! To make them, just add peach Schnapps to the Moscow Mule recipe.
  • Caramel Moscow Mules are a delicious variation on the classic Moscow mule recipe! To make them, add caramel vodka and Werther’s Original Caramel Syrup to the Moscow Mule recipe. This will give your drink a sweet and delicious caramel flavor!
  • Frozen Moscow Mules are Moscow mules made with frozen fruit. This Moscow Mule recipe variation is fun and delicious!
  • Moscow Mule with Ketel One Vodka is a Moscow mule made with Ketel One Vodka instead of Smirnoff vodka in the Moscow Mule recipe
  • Moscow Mule with Tequila instead of vodka is a yummy Moscow mule Recipe variation! To make it, replace the vodka in our Moscow Mule recipe with tequila. You can use any kind of tequila you like.

LEARN MORE: What is Martini Bianco?

Some Extra Tips For Serving Moscow Mules And How To Drink Them Properly:

There are some serving tips for Moscow mule that are popularly followed:

  • Moscow mules are traditionally served in copper cups that have been chilled to keep them cold on hot days! The drink is supposed to be consumed with a straw so that you can enjoy the full flavor of the ginger beer.
  • Don’t forget the lime wedge! It’s an essential part of this drink. Add it to your mug before drinking for extra tartness and flavor.
  • Moscow Mules are perfect for any time of day – enjoy them for a quick afternoon pick-me-up or as an after-dinner drink.

Moscow Mule With Sodas:

Moscow mules can be mixed with many sodas, such as Sprite or Coca-Cola. The sodas can either be poured into the copper mug or mixed in with the drink itself. Some people even like to add a little bit of ginger ale to their Moscow mules for an extra zing. Experiment and find your favorite Moscow mule soda combination!

Ginger Beer For Moscow Mule:

If you want to make your Moscow mule extra special, try using ginger beer instead of ginger ale. Ginger beer has a more intense flavor than ginger ale and gives your Moscow mule a unique kick. Be sure to use a good quality ginger beer for the best results.

LEARN MORE: If You Can Only Make One Cocktail, Make Sure It’s An Old Fashioned

Conclusion

Moscow mule is a drink that has quickly become popular in recent years. Its combination of different ingredients makes it unique for a refreshing beverage. You’re looking for something to sip on during a summer barbecue? Moscow mule is sure to be a hit.