The Tequila Mule is a lively twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with tequila, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice. Swapping vodka for tequila brings bright, fruity notes and more personality to the drink, making it a favorite for those who prefer a spirit with character.
Brief History
Despite its name, the Moscow Mule is an American invention that dates back to 1940 in New York City. The drink was developed through a collaboration between John G. Martin of a spirits company, Jack Morgan of the Cock ‘n’ Bull pub, and Rudolph Kunett of the Smirnoff company. At the time, vodka was unfamiliar to many Americans, so Martin and Morgan combined vodka with spicy ginger beer to create a refreshing, easy-to-sell cocktail. The mule’s distinctive presentation in a copper mug helped it stand out and boosted its popularity.
When tequila replaces vodka, the result is a tequila mule with a fruitier, more aromatic profile that complements the ginger and lime beautifully. If you grow mint or enjoy herb-forward cocktails, garnish with a mint sprig to enhance the aroma.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Ginger beer: Available as a non-alcoholic soda or as a spiked, alcoholic version. Both work in this cocktail; the non-alcoholic type is common in grocery stores, while brands like Crabbie’s offer a boozier alternative if you want a stronger drink.
- Fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the best bright acidity. If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled 100% lime juice can be used in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
- Tequila: Use a blanco or reposado tequila you enjoy. Popular choices include Milagro, Espolòn, Altos, Hornitos, Corralejo, Don Julio, and Teremana. The tequila’s flavor will shape the drink, so opt for one with clean agave notes.
- Garnish: Mint leaves, a lime wheel, or candied ginger add aroma and visual appeal. Mint is optional but recommended if you like an herbaceous lift.
Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities and full preparation details.
Expert Tips
- Smack the mint: Gently slap a mint sprig on the back of your hand before adding it as a garnish. This releases the essential oils and makes each sip more aromatic.
- Serve in a copper mug: Copper mugs keep the cocktail very cold and help maintain the drink’s crisp texture while you sip.
More Tequila Cocktails
Tequila Sunrise
Mango Margarita Recipe
Classic Margarita
Paloma
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Tequila Mule
Ingredients
- 4 ounces ginger beer, alcoholic or non-alcoholic
- 2 ounces tequila, vodka for classic variation
- 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
- Mint leaves, lime wedge, or candied ginger garnish
Instructions
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Pour the fresh lime juice and tequila into a copper mug or a chilled glass, then fill with ice.
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Top with ginger beer, stir gently to combine, and garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaves or candied ginger if desired.
Notes
Smack the mint: Lightly slap a mint sprig before garnishing to release its oils and boost the drink’s aroma.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation.