London Mule

One of my favorite cocktails, the London Mule, is the subject of my tale today. This drink is ideal for anyone seeking something refreshing with a bit of a kick. It’s our distinctive take on the classic Moscow Mule, but with a distinctly British twist: gin instead of vodka. The botanical notes of gin combine with ginger beer and lime to provide a cocktail that is not only delicious but also lively and energetic. It’s ideal for any occasion, whether you’re unwinding after work or toasting a celebration.

Tasting Notes

Flavors harmonize in the London Mule. The gin provides a floral and herbaceous base, which the ginger beer’s spicy zing enhances. A splash of fresh lime juice gives a bright, zesty taste to the drink, balancing it with the ideal amount of acidity. The end result is a cocktail that is both robust and refreshing, with a depth that grows with each sip.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a London Mule, you’ll need a jigger for measuring, a bar spoon for stirring, and a citrus squeezer to extract lime juice. This beverage is generally served in a copper cup, which not only keeps it ice cold but also improves the flavor profile and overall drinking experience.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces of London dry gin
• 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3 ounces of ginger beer
• Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a copper mug (or a highball glass) with ice cubes.
2. Add 2 ounces of London dry gin and 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice to the mug.
3. Top it with 3 ounces of ginger beer.
4. Stir the mixture briefly.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Pro Tips

• To achieve the best possible flavor, always use fresh lime juice. It makes a huge difference!
• Taste the ginger beer and adjust it accordingly. If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, feel free to add some extra.
• Before making the cocktail, place your copper cup in the freezer to keep it extra cold.

When to Serve

Because of its versatility, the London Mule is ideal for any event. It’s an excellent choice for warm summer evenings, joyful celebrations, or simply for a refreshing and energizing beverage. Its exquisite look and distinct flavor make it a favorite at both informal and formal events.

What Liquor Brands to Choose

A London Dry Gin works well with the spicy ginger beer and tart lime juice in the London Mule. Brands such as Beefeater, Tanqueray, and Bombay Sapphire provide the quality and flavor profile that elevate this beverage. However, feel free to experiment and discover the gin that best suits your taste.

Similar Cocktails

• Classic Moscow Mule: The original vodka-based mule.
• Gin Buck: Known as Gin and Ginger, is a crisp, invigorating cocktail blending the botanical richness of gin with the spicy zest of ginger ale, complemented by a splash of fresh lemon juice.
• Dark and Stormy: A darker version includes rum and ginger beer.
• Kentucky Mule: Bourbon’s response to the Mule family.
• Floradora: A pleasant and colorful drink that combines gin’s botanical overtones with the sweet and tangy flavors of raspberry syrup and fresh lime juice, finished with a splash of ginger ale for fizz.

History

The London Mule is a modern version of the Moscow Mule, which originated in the United States in the 1940s. The original cocktail was used to promote vodka and ginger beer. By replacing vodka with gin, a beverage with rich roots in British history, the London Mule pays homage to classic English flavors while preserving the refreshing appeal of its predecessor.