Holiday Moscow Mule

The Holiday Moscow Mule is a fun take on a standard drink that stands out in the world of cocktails. This drink is a mix of traditional mule ingredients with a little holiday cheer, making it great for holiday parties. Even though I’ve made and served a lot of drinks as a server, the Holiday Moscow Mule is my favorite. Each sip of this one-of-a-kind mix of flavors brings warmth and happiness to your life during the holidays.

Tasting Notes

The Holiday Moscow Mule is a delightful mix of spicy, sweet, and tart. The ginger beer provides a lively kick, while the cranberry juice adds a layer of tartness and color. Lime juice brings a touch of acidity, balancing the drink’s sweetness. The addition of a cinnamon stick and a sprig of rosemary introduce a subtle hint of holiday spices. Together, these ingredients create a refreshing and comforting beverage that’s perfect for winter celebrations.

Equipment and Glassware

In order to make a Holiday Moscow Mule, you’ll need a copper mug, which is traditional and makes the drink cooler. Also needed are a cocktail mixer to mix the ingredients, a jigger to measure them correctly, and a bar spoon to stir them. The copper mug is the best glassware for this drink, but if you can’t find one, a highball glass will do. An orange peel zester or knife and a cutting board for slicing toppings like cranberries or rosemary are good things to have on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 2 oz cranberry juice
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• Garnish: 1 cinnamon stick, 1 sprig of rosemary, and fresh cranberries

Instructions

1. Fill a copper mug or a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice over the ice.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a sprig of rosemary, and a few fresh cranberries.
5. Serve immediately, and enjoy the festive flavors.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality ginger beer for the best flavor. Look for brands that have a strong ginger bite.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a difference. It adds a brighter, more vibrant taste compared to bottled juice.
• Chill your copper mugs before serving. This keeps the drink colder longer, enhancing the refreshing experience.
• For a non-alcoholic version, substitute vodka with sparkling water or additional ginger beer.

When to Serve

The Holiday Moscow Mule is perfect for any winter celebration. Serve it at holiday parties, New Year’s Eve gatherings, or simply as a cozy treat on a cold evening. Its festive appearance and flavors make it an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For the Holiday Moscow Mule, a smooth, high-quality vodka is key. Brands like Tito’s, Absolut, or Grey Goose offer the clean taste needed to complement the spicy and tart components of the drink. Choosing a premium vodka ensures the flavors balance perfectly, elevating the overall experience.

Similar Cocktails

• Classic Moscow Mule – The original, with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
• Cranberry Mule – Focuses on cranberry juice for a tart twist.
• Gingerbread Mule – Adds gingerbread syrup for a sweeter, spicier version.
• Apple Cider Mule – Uses apple cider instead of cranberry juice for a fruity variation.
• Pomegranate Mule – Incorporates pomegranate juice for a deep, rich flavor.

History

The Moscow Mule, created in the 1940s, has seen various iterations over the years. The Holiday Moscow Mule is a modern adaptation that infuses traditional ingredients with seasonal flavors to celebrate the winter holidays. This version has gained popularity for its festive presentation and the way it embraces the spirit of the season, making it a beloved choice for holiday festivities.