Why Moscow Mules Are Served In The Iconic Copper Mug

The Moscow Mule, a cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime, is famously served in a copper mug, a tradition that dates back to the cocktail's inception in the 1940s. The use of copper mugs is not just for aesthetic appeal but also serves a functional purpose. Copper mugs are excellent conductors of temperature, allowing the drink to become and remain refreshingly cold. When a Moscow Mule is served in a copper mug, the metal quickly takes on the chilled temperature of the cocktail, providing an icy sensation with every sip. This enhances the drink's crispness and intensifies the flavors of the ginger beer and lime. Additionally, the copper mug gives a certain tactile pleasure, as the cold metal feels distinctively different from glass. The tradition began when the cocktail was created as a marketing strategy to promote both vodka and ginger beer in the United States, and the copper mugs were introduced as a unique selling point. Over the years, the copper mug has become synonymous with the Moscow Mule, adding to its charm and making it a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts seeking both tradition and a refreshing drinking experience.