It tastes great, looks great, and it's easy to make. The Moscow Mule is a classic 1940’s favorite that’s still a hit to this day. 3 ingredients and a zero need for bar tools anybody can make this amazing cocktail at any time. At the beach to cool down, at a party, you name it!
Want to Serve Moscow Mules at Work? Make Sure You’re Legally Certified.
Most U.S. states legally require bartenders and servers to hold an Alcohol Seller-Server Certification before serving cocktails professionally. Get certified online in as little as 1–2 hours fast, affordable, and done the same day.
What’s in a Moscow Mule?
Three ingredients make up the Moscow Mule:
• Vodka
• Ginger Beer
• Lime Juice
Ingredients
2 oz of vodka (any kind)
½ of freshly squeezed lime juice
6 oz of ginger beer
Due to the refreshing hit of lime and ginger this cocktail falls under a family of cocktails called a buck. A buck consists of liquor, citrus juice, ginger beer or ginger ale. It’s an official cocktail on the list of the International Bartender’s Association.
Check out the Whiskey Sour, Sidecar, Long Island or Martini!
How to make a Moscow Mule
A cocktail shaker is not advised to make a Moscow Mule. Because the ginger beer is carbonated it would actually ruin the drink! Simply add vodka, lime, ginger beer and stir it inside a copper mug! It’s one of the easiest cocktails to make. Don’t forget the mint garnish!
Directions:
- Squeeze lime juice into a copper mug (we’ll let you know why)
- Pour vodka and ginger beer
- Add ice and a lime or mint garnish
What are the Origins?
In the 1940’s the Moscow Mule was created to sell more vodka, ginger beer, and copper mugs. Celebrities in Hollywood were photographed drinking the refreshing cocktail with copper mugs. It’s caught on ever since!
The Copper Mug Distinction
Why are Moscow Mules served in Copper Mugs? Because it looks cool (pun intended!) Well yes, but also for function! Copper mugs keep cocktails colder so every sip will always be just as cold as the first. A Moscow Mule can be made in any glass but a copper mug will always add to the experience.
Where to Get Copper Mugs
Solid copper is the only way to go if getting that authentic Moscow Mule experience.
Some suggestions:
The Ultimate Set: A set of 4 solid copper mugs, copper straws and even wooden storage lids come with this bundle.
PG Moscow Mule Mugs: Great for longevity, the stainless steel lining keeps the inside from ever chipping or affecting taste.
Serving Moscow Mules Professionally? Here’s What You Need to Know.
If you’re a bartender, server, or alcohol vendor, most U.S. states legally require you to hold a valid Alcohol Seller-Server Certification. Here’s what’s typically required when serving cocktails like the Moscow Mule:
- Alcohol Seller-Server Certificate — Required in Texas (TABC), California, Illinois (RBS), Florida, (BASSET), and many others
- Responsible Beverage Service Training — Teaches ID checking, identifying intoxicated guests, and avoiding over-serving
- Food Handler Card — Required if your bar or restaurant also serves food alongside drinks
Getting certified is fast, affordable, and done 100% online. Most courses take just 1–3 hours and you’ll have your certificate the same day.
State-by-State Certification Quick Reference
Check the most common states below and click to find the right course for your location:
| State | Program | Required? | Get Certified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | TABC Certification | MANDATORY | View Course → |
| California | RBS Training | MANDATORY | View Course → |
| Florida | Responsible Vendor | MANDATORY | View Course → |
| Illinois | BASSET | MANDATORY | View Course → |
| New York | ATAP | Recommended | View Course → |
| Georgia | Seller-Server | MANDATORY | View Course → |
| Oregon | OLCC Permit | MANDATORY | View Course → |
| Pennsylvania | RAMP | Recommended | View Course → |
Don’t see your state? View all state certification courses →
Different Kinds of Mules
With such a classic recipe the vodka in the Moscow Mule can easily be swapped with different kinds of liquor.
- Dark and Stormy: Dark rum in a highball glass gives it a darker color.
- Irish Mule: Use Irish whiskey for a spicy finish!
- Gin Mule: A combination of a Mojito and a mule
- Mezcal Mule: The mezcal and tequila give this variation a smoky finish
- Mexican Mule: The tequila and the ginger beer give this a super spicy finish!
- Kentucky Mule: Bourbon swaps out the vodka in this whiskey-based mule.
- Apple Cider Mule: Sweet and tangy it can be sipped anytime!
Learn how to serve this incredible cocktail by getting alcohol certified!
Need a guide to learn how? We got you covered!
Check out our other amazing cocktail guides!
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