MOSCOW MULE

Though it was only made popular after a particularly successful Smirnoff ad campaign, the Moscow Mule has supposedly been around for nearly a century. In all that time, it hasn’t changed much at all. After all, why would it? The Moscow Mule is as simple as drinks come, featuring just two primary ingredients and that ever-present cocktail standby, a splash of citrus. In this case, let’s modify it just a bit by adding a bite of flavor in the form of a few mint leaves.

Makes 1 serving.

4 mint leaves

1/2 lime (juiced)

1 part vodka

3 parts ginger beer

1 lime wedge

1. Add the mint leaves to the bottom of your Mason jar, then juice the half lime into the jar. Add your desired amount of ice atop the juice.

2. Pour in the vodka and top off with ginger beer.

3. Garnish with a wedge of lime and enjoy.

VARIATION

Mexican Mule: Made with tequila rather than vodka (page 128).

Right about now, some cocktail aficionados are probably saying, “Hey, isn’t the Moscow Mule supposed to be served in a copper mug?” While that’s true, let’s be honest: How many among us actually own a copper mug? The truth is, most cocktails are simply served in whatever glassware is at hand. The growing popularity of the Mason jar offers most drinkers a handy way to incorporate a little rustic charm.