The Moscow Mule cocktail is one of the most iconic cocktails that emerged in America in the 1940s. The birth of this cocktail is actually based on an interesting marketing story.
In the 1940s, vodka was not a very common drink in America. John G. Martin, owner of the Smirnoff brand, was looking for a new idea to boost vodka sales. At the same time, Jack Morgan, the owner of a bar in Los Angeles, had a surplus of ginger beer and wanted to put it to good use.
Two entrepreneurs got together and tried mixing vodka and ginger beer. When they added lime juice, the result was a very fresh and balanced drink. Thus the Moscow Mule was born.
“Sometimes the best ideas are born when different paths cross at one point”
One of the most striking features of the cocktail is that it is served in a copper mug. According to legend, a friend of Morgan's was producing copper mugs and these mugs were used to promote the cocktail. The copper mug not only kept the drink colder but also became part of the visual identity of the cocktail.
The Moscow Mule quickly became popular across America and played a major role in the popularization of vodka in America. Today this cocktail is considered one of the most recognizable classics on bar menus around the world.
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Ingredients
Unit System
50 mlVodka
120 mlGinger ale
10 mlfresh lime juice
IceLime wedge and Fresh mint (optional)
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Method
1
Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2
Add vodka and fresh lime juice.
3
Top with ginger ale.
4
Stir gently.
5
Garnish with a lime wedge and optional mint.
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Bartender Tips
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Use real ginger beer - Ginger beer (ginger fizz) sets the spicy character of the cocktail.
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Use a copper mug - a copper mug keeps the drink frosty for longer.
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Add fresh lime juice - Fresh lime juice makes the cocktail fresh and balanced.
Greyhound - A fresh and slightly sour cocktail made with vodka and grapefruit juice. Despite its simple structure, it offers a lively and balanced drink.
