A festive twist on a classic cocktail, learn how to make this simple cranberry Moscow mule to enjoy during the holiday season.
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A classic Moscow mule is a simple drink that combines vodka, spicy ginger beer and tart lime juice. This cocktail makes a nice base to which you can add all kinds of delicious ingredients.
The mule is traditionally served in a copper mug. Why? Well for starters it’s fun to drink. The mug adds an air of sophistication and let’s people know what you are drinking. The mule is the only cocktail traditionally served in a copper mug. The copper also acts conductor keeping the drink either cold or warm. The result is a crisp and smooth drink that you will enjoy more in that shiny mug than in a rocks glass.
Where did the Moscow Mule come from?
Back in the 1940’s , vodka was not the most popular drink in the US. In an effort to change that, a swanky bar partnered with a vodka company and a brewery to create this classic. They combined Smirnoff vodka and ginger beer and served it to their high end cliental in Hollywood. A classic was born.
How to choose a ginger beer?
The mule has seen a resurgence in popularity recently prompting new varieties of ginger beer to emerge on the market. Ginger beer is made from ginger root which has a spicy flavor. It’s a non-alcohol soda brewed similarly to root beer. This soda combines nicely with citrus and smooth vodka.
When choosing a ginger beer I recommend trying a few variations first. I personally prefer a spicy flavor, but some like a sweeter version.
Start with Barritt’s, a classic ginger beer brewed in Bermuda. You can also try a sweeter version like Stoli. Or check out your local breweries, many are trying their hand at this classic soda.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Once you know how to make the classic drink, it’s time to add a twist. During the holiday season, try adding cranberry. Fresh cranberries are in season for a few months of the year and add a delicious tart flavor to foods, desserts and drinks. Get the full recipe below.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
A festive twist on a classic Moscow Mule cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 2 oz vodka
- .5 oz lime juice
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug with ice.
- Add cranberry juice, vodka and lime juice and stir to combine.
- Top with Ginger beer.
- Garnish with whole fresh cranberries and a lime.
Notes
A classic Moscow mule combine vodka, lime juice and ginger beer. Try adding apple cider or cranberry juice to create fun twist on this drink.
If you are loving this mule theme, check out another fall version the Apple Cider Moscow Mule. While you have that bottle of good (cold) vodka handy, try some of these simple vodka cocktails.
What twist would you add to a Moscow mule? Let me know in the comments.
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