Classic Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe: How to Make It Perfectly

For the evenings when you want to recreate an intimate night at home with your partner, or when friends drop by and cocktails are in order, here is a delicious Classic Moscow Mule recipe to warm you right up.

There’s a bar in Northeast Portland that feels like the definition of cozy and romantic: small and dim, but with high ceilings so it never feels cramped. Conversations there move from quiet whispers to sly smiles or surprised faces, and laughter is full-bodied—the kind that happens when you’re completely present with the people around you.

That favorite spot is The Secret Society, and they make some of the best Moscow Mules in town.

I don’t get to The Secret Society as often as I’d like, but those classic Moscow Mules always stick with me.

Classic Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule is a simple, refreshing cocktail: vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. It was created in 1941 by “Jack” Morgan, president of Cock ‘n’ Bull Products (makers of ginger beer), and John Martin of G.F. Heublein Brothers, Inc., an East Coast spirits and food distributor. Martin promoted the drink nationally by asking bartenders to pose with a copper mug, which is why the Mule is often served in copper.

To give this classic a contemporary twist in line with the current interest in barrel-aged spirits, I used a special vodka: Oak by Absolut.

Oak by Absolut

Oak by Absolut blends classic Absolut vodka with barrel-rested vodka and vodka finished on oak. The result is a darker spirit with richer, smoky flavors and subtle caramel notes. Availability is limited to select U.S. markets, including Portland, Oregon.

Using Oak by Absolut adds depth to the Moscow Mule and gives it an extra oomph that’s perfect for setting a relaxed, intimate mood—ideal for recreating the feel of a favorite bar at home.

Classic Moscow Mule

Prep Time:
5 mins

Total Time:
5 mins

Servings:
1

Refreshing and delicious, this classic cocktail comes together in just a couple of minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 5 oz ginger beer
• 3–4 drops bitters
• lime juice
• lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions

• Pour all ingredients into a copper mug or a highball glass. Fill with ice, garnish with a lime wedge, and enjoy.

Notes

If Oak by Absolut isn’t available, regular vodka works well. You can also substitute ginger ale for ginger beer if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 193kcal,
Carbohydrates: 14g,
Sodium: 10mg,
Sugar: 13g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Thanks to Absolut for sending a bottle of Oak by Absolut to try. Opinions and photos are my own.