Celebrate American innovation with this modern twist on a Moscow mule that swaps vodka for bourbon to deliver bolder, warmer flavors!
Americans love to put our own spin on things. From hamburgers to muscle cars to cowboy boots, we take inventions from other countries and transform them into bigger, faster, fancier iterations with our unique methods of rebranding.
Take, for example, Kentucky bourbon. It’s a distinctly Americanized version of the whiskey that originated in Scotland and Ireland. It’s also a key ingredient in this Kentucky mule recipe—which is itself a regional American twist on the classic Moscow mule. Both drinks tap into the practical and decorative aspects of a copper mug, and both take advantage of the singular zest of ginger beer. But the Kentucky mule swaps the cool sharpness of vodka for the complexity and smoothness of Kentucky whiskey. The result is a thoroughly modern cocktail that’s as bold, warm, and spirited as a Southern family picnic!
You’ll love how quickly and easily this cocktail comes together. And each refreshing sip will deepen your pride in our country’s traditions of innovation and resourcefulness.
Three elements of a perfect Kentucky mule
- Copper mug vs. rocks glass: Copper is a highly conductive metal, so the mug quickly takes on the temperature of the contents, keeping your cocktail icy cold from start to finish. The chilled exterior of the copper mug also creates a crisp, refreshing sensation with every sip. Plus, it looks more traditional. A rocks glass will do in a pinch, but the drink won’t stay as frosty.
- Crushed ice vs cubed ice: Crushed ice chills the drink very quickly and gives it a slushy, more diluted feel—ideal for hot days and adding to the mug’s frosty look. Cubed ice melts more slowly, extending the life of the cocktail while keeping dilution and chill nicely balanced. Either works well, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
- Ginger beer vs. ginger ale: These two mixers aren’t interchangeable. Ginger beer is spicy, bold, and cloudy. It’s made with fermented ginger, sugar, and water, bringing heat and bite that define authentic mule cocktails. Ginger ale is much milder, sweeter, and uses ginger flavoring, not fermentation. It will result in a lighter, less complex drink, while ginger beer brings the classic mule tang and fizz.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Kentucky mule does not keep well due to the carbonated ginger beer, which quickly loses its fizz and freshness. It’s best to enjoy this cocktail right after making it. Storing the assembled drink in the fridge will result in a flat, less crisp taste within a few hours. Freezing the drink is not a good idea, either. For parties, you can mix the bourbon and lime juice ahead and chill it in the fridge. Keep the ginger beer separate and add it right before serving for the freshest finish.
Serving suggestions
Serve your Kentucky mule alongside Southern-style dishes that celebrate American cuisine. Excellent pairings include flavorful Cajun Chicken or Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders. Add a side of Southern Potato Salad and finish with Pecan Pie Cobbler.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 3 ounces ginger beer
- Fresh mint leaves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug or rocks glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon or whiskey and fresh lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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