The History of the Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule cocktail is a refreshing and popular drink that has gained a significant following in recent years. It is known for its distinctive combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, typically served in a copper mug. The history of the Mule cocktail is a fascinating tale that intertwines with American history and the evolution of mixology.

The birth of the Moscow Mule cocktail is often credited to John G. Martin, the president of the Heublein drinks company, and Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock’n’Bull pub in Los Angeles. In the 1940s, both Martin and Morgan found themselves with excess inventory of their respective products- vodka and ginger beer. Seeking to promote their struggling products, they decided to collaborate on a cocktail that would showcase both ingredients.

Legend has it that three friends with connections to Martin and Morgan were involved in the creation of the Mule cocktail. Sophie Berezinski, a Russian immigrant who had inherited the Smirnoff distillery, provided the vodka. Morgan's girlfriend, Ozeline Schmidt, designed the copper mugs that became iconic vessels for the drink. Finally, a man named John "Jack" Morgan Jr., who had a background in marketing, contributed his skills to promote the cocktail.

The Mule cocktail gained popularity in the 1950s, becoming a favorite among Hollywood celebrities and socialites. Its distinctive copper mug, which not only kept the drink cold but also provided a unique visual appeal, contributed to its allure. The combination of spicy ginger beer, tart lime juice, and the smoothness of vodka created a refreshing and balanced flavor profile that appealed to many. To adhere as closely as possible to the iconic recipe, a well-balanced lime juice such as Twisted Alchemy’s 100% Persian Lime Cold Pressed Juice or Twisted Alchemy’s Persian Lime Cold Pressed Sour Juice Mixer is essential.

Over time, the Mule experienced a resurgence in the early 2000s, as bartenders and mixologists began revisiting classic cocktail recipes, and the Mule regained its status as a beloved staple drink. The cocktail's simple yet delicious combination of lime juice, vodka, and ginger beer, along with its signature copper mug, made it a hit in bars and restaurants across the world.

Today, the Mule cocktail has evolved beyond its original vodka-based recipe. Variations with different spirits, such as the bourbon-based Kentucky Mule or tequila-based Mexican Mule, have emerged, providing drinkers with a range of options to suit their tastes. The cocktail has also inspired creative twists, incorporating various fruits, herbs, and spices to add complexity and depth to the flavor profile. Twisted Alchemy’s cold-pressed juices and mixers provide plenty of options for exploration- a Three Citrus Mule brings 100% Grapefruit Cold Pressed Juice and 100% Valencia Orange Cold Pressed Juice into the classic mix. A Twisted Alchemy Blood Orange Mule provides an extra tart kick with the addition of 100% Blood Orange Cold Pressed Juice

The Mule cocktail has come a long way since its humble beginnings, from a collaborative effort to promote struggling products to a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Its history is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the individuals behind its creation and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted cocktail. Twisted Alchemy’s line of cold-pressed juices are optimally suited to serve the time-worn and delicious history of this classic cocktail.