Mule Mug Reviews & Buying Guide

Mule mugs are traditionally used to serve a Moscow Mule cocktail. Back in 1941, the drink was first invented and they called it a Smirnoff Mule. Since then there have been many versions of the drink but they all have the one thing in common – the copper mule mug.

In this buying guide, we’ll share with you some tips on choosing the best mule mugs and also reviews of some of the most popular ones you can buy right now.

Moscow Mule Drink Varieties

The original version of this famous cocktail uses just a few simple ingredients. There’s 2oz of vodka, 4oz of ginger beer and then just a small squeeze of lime to finish it off. Many people prefer this version, as it’s the original one. But for others, they like to put their own twist on the drink and that’s why other popular varieties were created.

Kentucky Mule

moscow mule drinkThe Kentucky Mule dispenses of the vodka and it gets replaced with good old bourbon instead. It still uses the ginger beer and lime but the bourbon was added to give the drink more warmth.

Mexican Mule

As the name suggests, this version came about in Mexico. This time, the vodka is switched out for, yes you guessed it, tequila! That’s the only difference from the original.

Garden Mule

This version uses all of the ingredients from the original Moscow Mule but adds in some other fresh items too. As the name suggests, these items can come straight from the garden and include things like cucumber and blueberries. You can also add some mint onto the top of the drink for more aroma and flavor.

Now that you have some cocktails to try, let’s move on to the mule mug itself.

Why Are Mule Mugs Made From Copper?

The copper mug for Moscow Mule drink is really what makes it stand out from the rest. It doesn’t matter which version of the drink you have, it just has to be served in one of these copper mugs.

Here are some of the main benefits that a copper mule mug provides:

Stylish

Every home bar just wouldn’t be complete without at least one mule mug. They bring a great authenticity to the bar and a real taste of nostalgia.

Cool Drinks

The main reason why copper mugs became so popular is because they keep drinks really cool. The copper has a reaction with the liquid which keeps it the same temperature. So your drink will stay cool for hours (although most cocktails are gone in minutes!).

Different Taste

As just mentioned, the metal reacts with the liquid, not only in temperature but also in taste. There’s a noticeable different between a mug made of metal and a glass. The drink doesn’t taste of metal, it just tastes better than from a glass.

Long Lasting

2 copper mugsAs we all know, if you drop a glass on the floor then there’s only going to be one outcome; it’s going in the bin in several pieces. But with a mule mug, if they are dropped then there’s no damage at all. That means they will last for years, either as a decoration on your bar or even if you use them every day.

Easier To Drink From

Have you ever tried sipping your cocktail from one of those large, fancy glasses? It can often be quite tricky. But with a mug, you can hold in nice and comfortably in your hand and not have to worry about spilling your drink.

Nostalgia

When you have your Moscow Mule out of the traditional mug, you can think back on all the people who have drank from metal mugs in the past. It’s one of those nostalgic things that should never be changed.

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Features To Keep In Mind When Buying Your Mule Mugs

Just like when you’re buying anything, it’s important to do some research to make sure that what you do buy suits your needs. And finding the best mule mugs is no exception. You don’t want to buy a set of mule mugs and be really disappointed with their quality or weight, so here are some things to look out for.

Is It Copper?

Traditional mule mugs are made from 100% copper. But nowadays, cheaper metals can be mixed in with the copper to make them more affordable. But this can affect the taste and ruin the experience that comes from a traditional Moscow Mule drink.

If you’re worried about drinking from a mug that’s 100% copper, then look out for some mugs which are lacquered on the inside to prevent the liquid actually coming into contact with the metal.

Does It Come With Accessories?

Naturally, we want to get the most out of our money, so you can check to see if the mug comes with any free accessories. Things like coasters, recipe guides or even shot glasses come free with some purchases, so it’s always worth having a look.

How Many Do You Need?

Mule mugs can be purchased in single format but also come in packs too. You can buy a pack of two, four or even more. If you’re looking for some to put in your home bar, then having at least four mugs hanging in your bar will really make them stand out. If you just have one then it might become lost and no one will see it.

How To Keep Your Copper Mugs Clean

moscow muleA common thing people worry about is how to keep their copper mugs clean, without ruining them and making them go rusty. Well fortunately, it’s easier than you might think.

The main thing to do is to always hand wash your mugs. Never put them in a dishwasher as it will ruin the finish. And if it’s one thing you want your mugs to do, it’s to shine.

All you need to do is get some regular dishwashing soap, add it to a clean sponge and clean the outside and inside of each mug. Then run the mug under a tap to remove the soap. Dry it with a clean towel or cloth so that there’s no water marks or smears left. When doing each of those steps, be as gentle as you can.

Then you just need to store the mugs out of sunlight and in a dry place. That way they will stay shiny and rust free for years to come.

Where To Buy Moscow Mule Mugs

Naturally, there are lots of places you can choose to buy your mugs from. But these days it can be so much easier to just let the internet do all the work for you. All you need to do is use a site like Amazon.com where you can browse all the available options, read the reviews and choose the mugs you want. Then have them delivered to your front door, often the very next day.

It really doesn’t get any easier than to shop for your mugs online.