Moscow Mule
A crisp, refreshing highball combining vodka, lime and spicy ginger beer. Bright, zesty and lightly fiery, with lively carbonation and a clean finish.
Moscow Mule Recipe
- Vodka 50 ml
- Lime juice 15 ml
- Ginger beer 100 ml
- Fresh lime 1 wedge, optional
- Ice 200 g
Make it properly
- Add vodka and lime juice to a copper mug.
- Fill generously with ice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge
WHAT MAKES A GOOD MOSCOW MULE?
A good Moscow Mule is crisp, refreshing and full of contrast. Vodka provides a clean base, lime brings fresh citrus acidity and ginger beer adds spicy warmth, sweetness and lively carbonation.
Plenty of ice keeps the drink cold and refreshing, while a fresh lime wedge adds extra citrus aroma. The finished cocktail should be bright and zesty, with enough ginger spice to remain distinctive without overpowering the lime.
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MOSCOW MULE: RECIPE, INGREDIENTS & TIPS
A practical guide to making a classic Moscow Mule, from choosing the right vodka and ginger beer to balancing fresh lime, ginger spice and refreshing carbonation.
THE STORY OF THE MOSCOW MULE
The Moscow Mule emerged in the United States during the 1940s and became closely associated with its distinctive copper mug. Despite its name, the cocktail is American rather than Russian in origin.
Its simple combination of vodka, lime and ginger beer helped popularise vodka in the United States and created a refreshing template that has since inspired countless Mule variations.
THE BEST INGREDIENTS FOR A MOSCOW MULE
A clean, versatile vodka allows the lime and ginger to remain at the centre of the drink. Drinkero recommends Absolut Vodka for its smooth, neutral character.
Lime provides the fresh acidity, while a quality ginger beer supplies both carbonation and the distinctive spicy ginger character. Drinkero recommends Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Beer for a lively, refreshing Moscow Mule with plenty of ginger flavour.
HOW TO MAKE A REFRESHING MOSCOW MULE
Build the Moscow Mule directly in a copper mug or highball glass. Add the vodka and lime juice, fill generously with ice and top with chilled ginger beer.
Stir gently to combine the ingredients without losing too much carbonation. The finished drink should be very cold, sparkling and refreshing, with a clear balance between lime acidity and spicy ginger.
HOW TO SERVE A MOSCOW MULE
Serve a Moscow Mule in a copper mug filled generously with ice. The mug is the classic choice and helps keep the drink exceptionally cold while giving it its distinctive presentation.
If you do not have a copper mug, a highball glass works very well. A large rocks glass can also be used for a shorter presentation.
Top the vodka and lime juice with well-chilled ginger beer and stir gently to combine without losing too much carbonation.
Finish with a fresh lime wedge or lime wheel and serve immediately while the drink is cold and lively.
Serving options:
- Classic: Copper mug + lime wedge
- Highball: Highball glass + lime wheel
- Simple: Rocks glass + lime wedge
- Extra fresh: Add a small sprig of fresh mint with the lime garnish
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MOSCOW MULE
What is a Moscow Mule made from?
A classic Moscow Mule combines vodka, lime juice and ginger beer. Drinkero's recipe uses 50 ml vodka, 15 ml lime juice and 100 ml ginger beer.
What vodka is best for a Moscow Mule?
A clean, versatile vodka works particularly well because it allows the lime and ginger flavours to remain prominent. Drinkero recommends Absolut Vodka.
What ginger beer should I use for a Moscow Mule?
Use a sparkling ginger beer with enough spice to remain distinctive alongside vodka and lime. Drinkero recommends Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Beer.
Is ginger beer the same as ginger ale?
No. Ginger beer generally has a stronger, spicier ginger character, while ginger ale tends to be softer and sweeter. For a classic Moscow Mule, use ginger beer.
Does a Moscow Mule have to be served in a copper mug?
No. The copper mug is traditional and strongly associated with the cocktail, but a highball glass also works perfectly well.
How do I make Moscow Mules for a group?
Choose 6, 12, 24 or 48 Moscow Mules in the Drinkero Cocktail Kit Builder. Drinkero calculates the vodka, lime juice, ginger beer and other quantities you need.
Is the Moscow Mule an official IBA cocktail?
Yes. The Moscow Mule is included in the International Bartenders Association’s official cocktail list as a Contemporary Classic. See the IBA’s official Moscow Mule recipe for the classic specification.