Servings: 1
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Start to Finish Time: 10 minutes
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The All-American Mule with a Russian Name
Despite its name, the Moscow Mule has nothing to do with Moscow—or mules, for that matter. This zippy cocktail was actually born in the United States during the early 1940s. Legend has it the drink was created at the Cock ‘n’ Bull pub in Hollywood, the result of a savvy marketing collaboration between three business owners: John Martin, who had recently acquired Smirnoff vodka and couldn’t get Americans to drink it; Jack Morgan, who had an overstock of ginger beer; and Sophie Berezinski, who had imported a cache of copper mugs from her father’s factory in Russia. Together, they created a drink—and a legacy.
Cool, Crisp, and Effervescent
The Moscow Mule quickly became a hit, thanks to its refreshing profile and instantly recognizable presentation. The combination of vodka, freshly squeezed lime juice, and spicy ginger beer delivers a perfectly balanced cocktail that is light yet flavorful. The carbonation and acidity work hand in hand to keep your palate alive from the first sip to the last.
That Iconic Copper Mug
More than just a stylish vessel, the copper mug plays a functional role in the Moscow Mule. It keeps the drink ice-cold longer than a traditional glass, enhancing the sensory experience with every frosty touch. Add a lime wedge for garnish and the drink practically sells itself.
TIP:
Choose Quality Vodka
Since vodka is the backbone of the Moscow Mule, it’s worth using a premium-grade bottle. A clean, smooth vodka ensures the drink doesn’t get lost under the boldness of the ginger beer or the brightness of the lime.
Angostura Bitters: The Secret Weapon
Though not part of the original recipe, a dash of Angostura bitters brings unexpected depth to the cocktail. With notes of clove, cinnamon, and spice, it adds a warm complexity that elevates the drink from simple to sophisticated.
Timeless and Easy to Love
Whether it’s served at a summer barbecue or a swanky cocktail party, the Moscow Mule remains a crowd-pleaser. It’s a breeze to make, stunning to look at, and endlessly satisfying. One sip, and you’ll understand why this American original with a borrowed name continues to stand the test of time.
A Moscow Mule is a crisp, zesty cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime, served ice-cold in a copper mug for maximum refreshment.
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Ingredients:
2 ounces vodka (see TIPS)
1/2 ounce lime juice, fresh
10 ounces ginger beer
1 dash Angostura Bitters (optional)
lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a copper mug or tall glass with ice.
Add the vodka and lime juice.
Top with ginger beer.
Add a dash of Angostura bitters (if using).
Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with a lime wedge (and/or mint leaf, if available).
NOTE:
Despite its name, the Moscow Mule has no Russian origins. It
was invented in the United States in the early 1940s, reportedly at the
Cock ‘n’ Bull pub in Hollywood. The drink was born from a marketing
partnership between John Martin, who was struggling to sell his newly
acquired Smirnoff vodka, and Jack Morgan, who had a surplus of
ginger beer. The iconic copper mug came from a third partner, Sophie
Berezinski, who had brought a stockpile of copper mugs from her
father’s factory in Russia.
NOTE:
Angostura Bitters: Just a dash adds depth, complexity, and
subtle spice to a Moscow Mule.
TIP:
Use a premium-grade vodka for the best Mule experience.
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 273 Calories; trace Fat (1.6% calories from fat); trace Protein; 1g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 0mg
Cholesterol; 17mg Sodium; 20g Total Sugars; 0mcg Vitamin D; 2mg Calcium; trace Iron; 17mg Potassium; 5mg Phosphorus. Exchanges: