The Moscow Mule was invented in 1941 in the Chatham Hotel
bar in New York City by a ginger beer purveyor and two Smirnoff vodka executives.
The copper mug the drink is usually served in was part of the original
marketing campaign for the drink.
The original recipe remains unchanged today with ginger beer,
vodka and lime juice, with more lime and mint to garnish.
There are many ways to mule though, whether it’s adding in a fruit or swapping out the vodka for a different liquor. Here
are some of the many variations on the theme.
2. Peach Mule
Peach nectar, diced peaches and
peach schnapps are all added in for a
stone fruit version of a mule. Grand Marnier lends a hint of orange.
3. Strawberry Mule
Muddle fresh strawberries into the standard preparation for
an early summer twist.
4. Blackberry Mule
Blackberries and basil form a merry trio with the ginger
beer, enhanced by the lime juice.
5. Watermelon Mule
6. Jalapeño Cucumber Mule
Mules can be spicy and refreshing with ginger beer and
lime, but the hot/crisp combo of jalapeño and cucumber on top brings
another level to the flavors.
7. Orange Mule
8. Apple Cider Mule
There’s something about the copper mug that already makes
this drink have autumnal vibes, but you can turn it up more by adding apple cider
to the drink.
9. Limoncello Mule
10. Rosemary Kentucky Mule
When you add in bourbon instead of vodka, the drink feels a
little like a mint julep. You can add fresh mint instead of rosemary to follow
that thread.
11. French Mule
To bring the mule to Paris, replace the vodka with cognac.
Also, muddle whole pieces of ginger at the bottom of the shaker.
12. London Mule
Gin is a typical substitute for vodka already in drinks like
martinis when you want a crisper drink. London gin pairs nicely with the lime
and ginger beer, and brings a floral edge to ginger and citrus flavors.