Kentucky Mule

How about a Moscow Mule with a twist? Bourbon and a sprig of mint give this Kentucky Mule its distinctive Southern charm. I just know you’re going to love it.

Yes, my enjoyment of bourbon keeps growing! I’ve been putting it in any cocktail I can. My latest is this Kentucky Mule.

What is a Kentucky Mule?

I didn’t invent this recipe; it’s been around for quite some time. It’s a variation on the classic Moscow Mule, which is made with vodka. A Kentucky Mule follows the same recipe except bourbon is used in place of vodka.

If you’ve ever made a mule, you know how simple it is to put together. After adding liquor, ginger beer, and lime juice to a glass, you just stir and garnish. That’s it. I’m certain you can make one in under a minute.

As with any mule, the resulting cocktail is fresh, bright, and flavorful. And it’s easy to drink. Unless you don’t like ginger, I think you’ll enjoy this cocktail.

What’s in a Kentucky Mule?

Only ice and a few ingredients:

• Bourbon: I’ve shared my favorite below, but you can use whatever bourbon you like. Bonus points if it’s from Kentucky.
• Ginger Beer: Sample a few and see which one you prefer. My current go-to is Fever-Tree. It’s available at most grocery stores or online HERE.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is a must. We’re only using three ingredients, so you want the best of the best.
• Mint: Every cocktail needs a garnish. Mint is perfect for a Kentucky Mule.

What Bourbon Do You Use for a Kentucky Mule?

As I mentioned, it doesn’t matter what bourbon you use. However, if you’re new to bourbon, here are a few recommendations:

My Favorite Bourbons:

• Four Roses Single Barrel: This might be my favorite.  (As you can see the bottle is just about empty!) There are several varieties so make sure you get the Single Barrel. It’s the best. Plus, it’s made in Kentucky, which is perfect for this recipe!
• Redbreast 12 Year: I was introduced to this last year when I was in Ireland. It makes an amazing Old Fashioned.
• Bulleit: Both of the previous options are top-shelf, so they are an investment. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, try Bulleit Bourbon.

How to Make a Kentucky Mule:

Now that we’ve talked about what goes into a Kentucky Mule, let’s make one! (You will find a printable recipe card near the end of this post with a full list of ingredients and instructions.)

1. Add ice to a glass or mug. Traditionally, a mule is served in a copper mug. This helps keep the drink cold. I had these beautiful hand-painted glasses (I found antiquing) with a grouse and a pheasant on them so I decided to use them instead of copper mugs. (I felt the glasses fit the theme.)

2. Add the bourbon, fresh lime juice, and ginger beer. I listed the “standard” measurements in the recipe card below, but feel free to add more or less of any ingredient to suit your tastes. Again, I’m using the Four Roses Single Barrel. It’s perfection here.

3. Stir and garnish. Stir everything to combine and garnish with a wedge of lime and a sprig of mint.

4. Cheers! Sip and enjoy, my friends.

I told you this drink is easy to make! It also tastes wonderful. If you’re not careful, this Kentucky Mule might become your new go-to cocktail.

Looking for more bourbon based cocktails? Try these:

• Frozen Old Fashioned Slush
• Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
• Pumpkin Old Fashioned 
• Cranberry Old Fashioned
• Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail

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Kentucky Mule Recipe:

Kentucky Mule

Bourbon and a sprig of mint give this Kentucky Mule its distinctive Southern charm. I just know you're going to love it.

5 from 2 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bourbon, ginger beer, kentucky mule, mule

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Servings: 1 cocktail

Calories: 173kcal

Ingredients

• 2 ounces bourbon
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 4-5 ounces ginger beer
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a copper mug or rocks glass with ice.
• Pour in the bourbon and lime juice. Top with ginger beer.
• Stir.
• Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.

Nutrition

Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 9mg | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin C: 4mg | Iron: 1mg