The Moscow Mule Recipe

Posted in Vodka on March 4, 2014

The Moscow Mule is a mule or buck cocktail. This is a rather out of fashion name which was used for alcoholic mixed drinks which were made of ginger beer, citrus juice and a liquor base. The Moscow Mule is vodka based and this probably inspired its name because numerous people perceive vodka as a typically Russian drink.

This cocktail was invented in 1941 at the Cock’n’Bull restaurant in Los Angeles. It is believed to have been created in order to promote vodka among alcohol consumers. The restaurant was a favorite place for various celebrities and important people. The idea of the Moscow Mule was elaborated by the president of the company producing Smirnoff vodka and by the president of the Cock’n’Bull Products which was making ginger beer. They were in the company of another reputable businessman of those times and the three of them decided to combine vodka, ginger beer and lime juice to see what comes out. They were pretty happy with the result and they have also come up with the current name after enjoying several creations of theirs. The Moscow Mule was very popular in the 50s when the United States was actually experiencing a vodka craze. The popularity of the drink was enhanced by the marketing efforts of the Smirnoff president. He popularized it in copper mugs and these recipients became the trademark vessel for the drink.

The Moscow Mule is refreshing and it has a subtle ginger flavor. It can be enjoyed in all seasons because the freshness of the citrus juice makes it great for hot summer days, but the warmth of the ginger allows us to savor it in winter also. It is very easy to prepare the Moscow Mule at home. Different recipes are calling for different amounts of lime juice. It is, after all, up to you how much juice you plan to use. You can experiment with it and see which version is the most appealing for you.

How to Prepare the Moscow Mule

You need the following ingredients:

  • 2 oz. of vodka.
  • 1 oz. of lime juice (some recipes only call for ½ oz.)
  • Ginger beer (4 to 6 oz.)
  • Ice
  • A lemon slice for garnish.

The Moscow mule is traditionally served in a copper mug, but a highball glass also works just fine. Put the ice cubes in the glass and then add the vodka and the lime juice. Top off with ginger beer and garnish with the lemon slice. Make sure the ginger beer is cold in order for obtaining the best results. Also keep in mind that the traditional recipe is made with ginger beer and not ginger ale. Using ale might alter the taste of the cocktail.

 

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