If you’ve ever strolled into a bar and ordered a “London Mule,” you may have wondered where the name came from. The London Mule is a popular cocktail that has gained popularity in recent years, often served in a copper mug and made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
But why is it called a London Mule? Let’s dive into the history of this refreshing drink.
Origins of the Moscow Mule
Before we can understand the origins of the London Mule, we need to first look at its predecessor – the Moscow Mule. This cocktail was created in 1941 by John G. Martin, owner of Smirnoff Vodka, and Jack Morgan, owner of the Cock ‘n’ Bull restaurant in Hollywood.
The story goes that Martin was struggling to sell his vodka in America while Morgan was having difficulty selling his ginger beer. They decided to combine forces and create a new cocktail using both their products. They added lime juice to cut through the sweetness of the ginger beer and served it in a copper mug to make it stand out from other cocktails.
The Moscow Mule became an instant hit, not only for its refreshing taste but also for its unique presentation. It quickly spread across America and became one of the most popular cocktails of its time.
The Birth of the London Mule
So where does London come into play? The answer lies with Fever-Tree, a British company that produces premium mixers for cocktails. In 2015, they decided to create their own version of the Moscow Mule using their ginger beer and locally sourced vodka.
To give their cocktail a British twist, they added a splash of gin – one of London’s most famous exports – and named it the “London Mule.” The drink quickly gained popularity in bars across London and beyond.
Why Copper Mugs?
Both the Moscow Mule and London Mule are traditionally served in copper mugs. But why? The answer is both practical and aesthetic.
Copper is an excellent conductor of heat, which means that the mug will keep your drink cold for longer. It also adds a unique flavor to the cocktail, enhancing the taste of the ginger beer and lime juice.
From an aesthetic point of view, copper mugs are visually striking and make the cocktail stand out from other drinks on the menu. They have become synonymous with both the Moscow Mule and London Mule and are a must-have for any bar looking to serve these cocktails.
The Verdict
In conclusion, the London Mule is a British twist on the classic Moscow Mule. It was created by Fever-Tree in 2015 and contains gin as well as vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. The use of copper mugs not only adds to its visual appeal but also keeps it colder for longer.
So next time you order a London Mule, you can impress your friends with your knowledge of its origins. And if you haven’t tried one yet, what are you waiting for? Head to your nearest bar and give it a go – we promise you won’t be disappointed!