Known for its signature copper mug and invigorating blend of ginger beer, vodka, and lime, the Moscow Mule has a storied history and remains a favorite in bars across the globe.
The History of the Moscow Mule
Despite its name, the Moscow Mule was not invented in Russia. Its creation dates back to the 1940s in the United States. The story begins with John Martin, the head of a small vodka company (which would later become Smirnoff), and Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock 'n' Bull pub in Hollywood.
Martin was trying to popularize vodka in America, a spirit that was relatively unknown at the time. Morgan, on the other hand, was struggling to sell his house-made ginger beer. Together, they decided to combine the two ingredients, adding a squeeze of lime to create a refreshing new cocktail.
The final touch was the copper mug, which not only kept the drink chilled but also added a distinctive aesthetic. The drink quickly gained popularity, becoming a symbol of mid-century cocktail culture and contributing to the rise of vodka as a staple spirit in the United States.
