Thursday, August 30, 2012

THE PERFECT MOSCOW MULE

Seems like everywhere you look today, some fancy mixologist in some chic, unmarked tavern in NYC is inventing a new recipe like a “Rose Peartini” or the “Blackberry-Gin Fizz.” As innovative and exciting as new drink recipes may be, there is something special about the tried and true recipes of yesteryear like the “Tom Collins,” the “Manhattan,” and the simple but perfect “7&7.” Recently, the popularity of these classic cocktails has been on the incline.

Shows such as “Mad Men” and “Magic City” (both set in the 1960s) may be credited for the revival of “retro” drinks across the country. Retro is in. From television shows to home décor, the styles and trends from five and six decades ago are “in” and cocktails have followed suit. One drink that has made an enormous comeback within the last year, the Moscow Mule, has been around since the early 1940s.

First mixed in 1941 by John G. Martin and Jack Morgan, the Moscow Mule is a simple recipe with basic ingredients. Vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer are all one needs to concoct this refreshing, citrusy cocktail. What makes the Moscow Mule stand out from other vodka drinks is the signature stout copper mug in which they should be served. The copper mug not only plays a role in the identity of the drink, it also keeps it extremely cold.. Chorus lines of copper mugs can be found on more and more bar backs everyday, some even feature the establishment’s logo. (BoozeNews)

If you still haven’t tried a Moscow Mule, or if you are just looking for a great drink recipe to enjoy at home, try our favorite version, perfected by GAP’s very own Drew Murray!


The Perfect Moscow Mule

-Start with the standard 24oz. Copper Mug (Has to be the real deal, full copper, not tin- lined)

-Fill a quarter of the way with ice.

-Roll a fresh lime, to release the juices.

-Cut a round slice of lime (so that it looks like a spoke of a wheel) from the center of the lime.

-Take one of the lime “halves” and squeeze the juice over the ice.

-Throw that same half, into the mug on top of the ice.

-Fill halfway with ice.

-Place the round slice of lime at the top of the ice.

-Take your favorite vodka (I like Tito’s) and pour it directly over and through the lime slice, so that it acts as a filter. While pouring, count 4 long seconds (sometimes I treat myself to 5)

- Pour a whole can of your favorite ginger beer, (I strongly recommend Gosling’s), through the lime slice in the same fashion.

-Stir your beverage and enjoy.

Enjoy your Moscow Mule responsibly!