Updated on July 25th 2023
The Moscow Mule is one of the simpler co*cktails that you could choose to make, and that, combined with the fact that it's so damn tasty, is one of the main reasons that has led to it becoming so immensely popular. However, just because we think it's easy to make, that doesn't mean to say that it's impossible to "mess-up," especially if you're a total novice when it comes to making co*cktails. If you want to give yourself a chance of not totally ruining your first homemade Moscow Mule co*cktail (if you've never made one...you absolutely have to!), we've outlined some of the biggest mistakes that you must avoid.
Making It Too Strong
There's a tendency for people, especially those that don't have much co*cktail-making experience, to make their Moscow Mule far too strong the first time round. The only thing that this will achieve is it will help you to become rather tipsy in a very short amount of time. Rather than improvising and pouring as much vodka into the mix as you want, stick to the amount recommended (you can use our go-to Moscow Mule recipe).
Being Stingy With the Ice
People don't realize just how important the ice is when making a Moscow Mule. It's a co*cktail that's best served ice cold; if it's anything but ice cold it won't meet your expectations. The ice also fulfils another important role in that it will dilute the co*cktail to the correct ratio, helping you to avoid the problem we discussed in the first point. So don't be tight-fisted with your ice cubes and make sure you put plenty in your Moscow Mule copper mug.
Disregarding the Importance of the Garnish
Professional bartenders don't serve co*cktails with a garnish just to make it look "pretty" (although that is one benefit that it provides); the garnish, which in the case of the Moscow Mule is typically a lime and a mint leaf, adds the finishing touches to the flavor profile of your co*cktail. Make sure you squeeze the lime into the drink before positioning it on the rim of your copper mug!
Using the Cheapest Ingredients Available
We know that even as the economy starts to pick up, many people are still struggling, but cheap ingredients will always produce a poorer quality drink; there's just no getting away from that. Rather than making this mistake, pay that little extra and get some quality Moscow Mule ingredients; premium vodka, some real tasty ginger beer and some fresh limes. That is a combination that makes for a great Moscow Mule!
Not Using a Copper Mug
The copper mug is synonymous with the Moscow Mule and drinking one without it is not far short of being a crime. While it won't impact much (if at all) of the taste of the drink, it is essential to the presentation and enjoying an authentic experience. It also serves to keep your drink ice cold for a much longer duration than is possible with glass. Copper mugs are said to have a wide range of benefits other than keeping your Moscow Mule nice and cool (very useful in the middle of summer).
Using Bad Ice
You're probably thinking "does ice really go bad?" The answer is "YES!" After it's been in the freezer for a long time, ice can actually start to absorb the odors of the things that surround it. These odors can influence the taste of the ice and seriously impact upon the flavor of your Moscow Mule. So rather than taking any risks, simply prepare in advance and make a fresh batch of ice.
Using Ginger Ale Instead of Ginger Beer
If you are familiar with the Moscow Mule or are considering making it and have looked at a recipe sheet, you'll know that ginger beer is one of the main ingredients that is used. However, too many people use ginger ale instead, mistakenly thinking that they are both the same thing. You can probably guess that I'm about to tell you that they aren't. While ginger beer is actually brewed and fermented, ginger ale isn't. Ginger ale is a carbonated beverage that is produced using water and ginger. Ginger beer has much more of a spicy, "gingery" flavor, which is essential to a great-tasting Moscow Mule. If you use ginger ale, it'll throw the whole co*cktail out of sync.
The truth is that the Moscow Mule is a lot easier to make than many of the other co*cktails out there, and providing you avoid the 7 common mistakes that are listed above, you will be able to enjoy this drink time and time again this summer. Remember one thing that always makes Moscow Mules taste better is having the right cup. You could even pay our designers to customize your copper mug with your choice of engravings.
Own a bar or restaurant and want to use the Jamaican Mule recipe? Sign up for our wholesale program and we can get you discount glassware or Copper Mugs for a great bulk deal.
FAQs
Moscow Mule
If you're a mule drinker, you must be a Harry Styles fan. You pride yourself on your loyal qualities—which is a good thing. Unfortunately, mules symbolize stubbornness, and you've heard the saying: you are what you drink.
What does a Moscow Mule say about a person? ›
Moscow Mule
If you're a mule drinker, you must be a Harry Styles fan. You pride yourself on your loyal qualities—which is a good thing. Unfortunately, mules symbolize stubbornness, and you've heard the saying: you are what you drink.
Do copper mugs make Moscow Mules taste better? ›
Along with American tradition, a copper mug is vital to fully enhance the aroma and taste of a Moscow Mule co*cktail. When vodka is served in a copper mug, vodka gets oxidized, leading to a potent aroma and superior flavor profile.
Is Moscow Mule better with crushed ice or ice cubes? ›
The standard ratio for a Moscow Mule is 2 parts vodka, 1 part lime juice, and 4 parts ginger beer. Use crushed ice: Fill your copper mug with crushed ice instead of regular ice cubes. Crushed ice will cool your drink faster and create a slushy texture that is more enjoyable to sip.
Should you stir a Moscow Mule? ›
Should a Moscow Mule Be Shaken? A Moscow Mule may be shaken, but only before adding the ginger beer. Once you've added carbonation, shaking the drink will negatively affect the drink, and you'll have to start again. That's why you should invest the right bartender tools, and you can stir the drink instead.
Is a Moscow Mule a feminine drink? ›
Is a Moscow mule a girly drink or a manly drink? This is one of the things I love most about this co*cktail: anyone can enjoy it! It's often served in a masculine metal mug, and it's got a sharp bite to it, so it's perfect for guys. But it's also fizzy and a little sweet, so women really enjoy it too!
What do you call a Moscow Mule now? ›
And bar proprietors are changing the names of their co*cktails to make it clear what side they're on: In many places, the Moscow Mule is now the Kyiv Mule. In at least one bar, it's the Snake Island Mule, a reference to the Ukrainian territory where border guards made a defiant last stand against invading troops.
What is a dirty martini personality type? ›
Customizable with gin or vodka, a touch of vermouth and defiled with olive juice, if you like your martini dirty, you're hip, swanky, stylish…
Are you supposed to chill Moscow Mule mugs? ›
Moscow mules are served in copper mugs to enhance the presentation, chill the drink to a frosty temperature, and some believe it even affects the flavors. Keep reading to learn more about the history of copper mugs and why they go hand-in-hand with Moscow Mules.
Is a Moscow Mule healthy? ›
A study published in the January/February issue of the Journal of Environmental Health found that copper leaches into the drink made of ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka. In a little under half an hour, the copper levels rise higher than the safety standard set for drinking water.
No matter which type of mug you choose, be sure to hand wash your copper cups, dry them thoroughly, and polish them as desired. With proper care, your guests can always enjoy a tasty co*cktail from a classic copper mug.
Is tito's vodka good for a Moscow Mule? ›
Tito's Handmade Vodka is crafted in an old-fashioned pot still, and it's teeming with traditional tastes. A neutral spirit, Tito's Vodka is anything but bland. Pouring it over crushed ice, you'll unlock a delectable crispness that elevates your Moscow Mule to new heights.
What vodka do most Russians drink? ›
Among some of the most loved bottles that come from Russia include Beluga Noble Vodka, which is known for its citric taste that comes with hints of oats and honey and spicy finish, Russian Standard Vodka, famous for being one of the most reliable bottles of vodka on the market at a highly competitive price point, and ...
What co*cktail is similar to a Moscow Mule? ›
In addition to these, the Moscow Mule has cousins from all over the world. If you like the idea of a Moscow Mule made with tequila instead of vodka, you can try a Mexican Mule (recipe courtesy of Difford's Guide), and if bourbon is more your style, there's also a Kentucky Mule (recipe by Liquor).
How do you spice up a Moscow Mule? ›
Keeping things wintery, spicy, and just a touch sweet with this Spicy Jalapeño Ginger Moscow Mule (with Mocktail). Vodka mixed with fresh lime juice, grapefruit juice, spicy jalapeños, fresh ginger, and topped off with ginger beer. It's a touch of sweet and a little bit spicy.
What goes well with a Moscow Mule? ›
Light fishes seasoned with citrus is a great way to compliment a mule. One rule of thumb is to lean towards relatively simply preparations: options with rich, creamy sauces end up providing an unwelcome contrast to a Mule. Best of all, it doesn't even need to be a fancy preparation.
How to make a stubborn mule? ›
Recipe:
- 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon.
- ¼ oz fresh lemon juice.
- 4-5 oz Earl Giles ginger beer (or similar)
- 1 eyedropper Bittercube Cherry Bark Vanilla Bitters.
- Filthy Black Cherry to garnish.
Is a Moscow mule a girly drink or a manly drink? This is one of the things I love most about this co*cktail: anyone can enjoy it! It's often served in a masculine metal mug, and it's got a sharp bite to it, so it's perfect for guys. But it's also fizzy and a little sweet, so women really enjoy it too!
