For those of you who are in the mood for a ginger beer cocktail served in a sexy copper mug but aren’t necessarily in the mood for vodka, look no further than the Kentucky Mule.

A take on the original Moscow Mule, the Kentucky Mule recipe simply swaps out the vodka for an American Whiskey, usually a bourbon. The pairing of whiskey and ginger should be no stranger, surely you’ve had a whiskey ginger before. So it should be no surprise that this “alternative” twist on an original cocktail may taste so good that you’d think this is actually the original!

Let’s get right to it–

The Original Kentucky Mule Recipe

  • Start with a chilled Copper Moscow Mule Mug
  • Add 2-3 ice cubes
  • Add 3 parts bourbon (1.5oz)
  • Add 1 part lime juice (0.5oz)
  • Top it off with your favorite ginger beer, although the true recipe calls for Cock & Bull Ginger Beer
  • Garnished with a slice or wedge of lime and some mint leaves

Like the Moscow Mule, the Kentucky Mule can be enjoyed all year round, but is especially a summer drink when mint leaves are used to garnish the cocktail. Many people also really enjoy the Kentucky Mule in the winter as the bourbon can add a warming depth to the drink.

For another non-alcoholic spin on the Moscow Mule, check out the recipe for a Virgin Moscow Mule!