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