Here are all the best Moscow mule variations to try! These types of mules are the most popular riffs on this classic drink.
Are you a Moscow mule fan! Then get ready, because there are so many Moscow mule variations to try! This classic cocktail was invented in the 1940’s, but it’s having a moment now, too. Why? Perhaps it’s the bubbly, zingy bold flavor. Perhaps it’s because it’s so darn easy to make: just 3 ingredients and takes 3 minutes. Or maybe it’s because of those super cool copper mugs. Whatever the case: mules are the life of the party these days!
Here’s a list of the top most popular types of mules. Click “Get Recipe” to get the recipe for each. Scroll below the list and you’ll find a few more ideas, too.
And now…the top Moscow mule variations!
The classic! The Moscow mule is a classic cocktail born in the 1940’s, made with vodka and ginger beer. It’s actually part of a family of cocktails called a buck: a cocktail made with liquor, ginger ale or ginger beer, and citrus juice. So, it can also be called a vodka buck! This classic cocktail is on the list of International Bartender Association’s IBA official cocktails.
Ingredients: Vodka, lime, ginger beer
Swap vodka for tequila and you've got the Mexican mule! This drink is bold, it’s bubbly, and it’s ready to spice up your next gathering. This Moscow mule variation might be even better than its inspiration. The way the bite of the tequila combines with spicy ginger and zingy lime makes it impossible not to immediately take another sip.
Ingredients: Tequila, lime, ginger beer
One of the arguably most fun ways to drink bourbon? As a mule! This Moscow mule variation swaps vodka for bourbon to make a Kentucky mule. It’s bubbly, bright and bold: with zingy lime and a spicy whiskey finish. There’s no shaking or stirring required: just pour it all into the glass. It’s easy for parties: or a summer evening on the porch.
Ingredients: Bourbon whiskey, lime, ginger beer
It’s minty, it’s bubbly, it’s refreshing: meet the Gin Gin Mule! You might think this Moscow mule variation is just liquor swap. But this cocktail is more than meets the eye! Considered a modern classic, it’s a mashup of the Moscow mule and minty Mojito. The bubbly ginger beer and lime of a mule is balanced by the mint and sweetness of a mojito. If you like, make a straight up "Gin Mule" and omit the mint and simple syrup (head to the recipe for more.)
Ingredients: Gin, lime, ginger beer, mint, simple syrup
Most people consider this the rum version of a Moscow mule...the Dark and Stormy! There are a few differences: this classic cocktail is served in a highball glass and skips a measured amount of lime. This refreshing highball drink has quite the reputation…because it’s just that good. Each ingredient has lots of personality: the rich, earthy dark rum, with vanilla and brown sugar notes. Add to that spicy ginger beer, fruity and filled with effervescent bubbles.
Ingredients: Dark rum, ginger beer, lime wedge
Love mezcal? Then you must try a mezcal mule! This spin on the classic Moscow mule has a hint of smoke is full of bubbly, tangy flavor. Using the tequila-based smoky liquor infuses a sharpness to every sip! It’s balanced with tequila to smooth it out: and man, is it good! When it comes to Moscow mule variations, this one is quite the party trick.
Ready for a fruity Moscow mule variation? Meet this watermelon mule, a bubbly cocktail with a light watermelon essence! This one keeps the vodka and adds a little watermelon juice along with the ginger beer. It's light and refreshing, a sweet spin on the the classic.
Ingredients: Vodka, lime, watermelon, ginger beer
Want a fall variation instead? This seasonal spin is even more fun than the original. It pairs apples and ginger in a bubbly, effervescent mix that looks perfectly cozy nestled in a copper mug. Why stop drinking the mule when autumn hits? This fall cocktail is ideal for when the temps start to drop: it even works as a winter cocktail for holiday gatherings, too.
Ingredients: Vodka, lime, apple cider, ginger beer
And finally, another whiskey-based Moscow mule variation: meet the Irish mule! This spin on the classic Moscow Mule is bubbly and light, with a spicy Irish whiskey finish. It’s a good intro drink to whiskey and a way to make any party more fun! As with all the types of mules, it couldn’t be easier: all you do is pour 3 ingredients into a glass.
Ingredients: Irish whiskey, lime, ginger beer
More Moscow mule variations
Here’s a list of a few other popular types of mules that have become widely known:
- Jamaican mule: Uses spiced rum
- Oaxacan mule: Uses mezcal
- Glasgow mule: Uses Scotch and St Germain
Why the copper mugs?
Of course, you can serve a Moscow mule in whatever glass you like! But if you want to go super classic, we recommend a sold copper mug. Why?
- The mug turns ice cold, which gives a cool sensation on each sip. This drink tastes even colder when you drink it out of the solid copper mug. It adds another sensory element to the drinking experience!
- Tradition! Back in the 1940’s when the drink was invented, the public saw images of Hollywood celebs enjoying the drink in copper mugs. It caught on and became the classic way to drink it to this day.
Where to find copper mule mugs
There are lots of mugs that look like copper out there. But only solid copper gets cold when you add a mule. Solid copper mule mugs are a fun splurge and they make great gifts too (like wedding gifts for couples who love cocktails). Here are some copper Mule mugs on Amazon.
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