Singing with oak and spicy ginger, the Kentucky Mule is a perfect Derby Day drink. This classic cocktail uses simple ingredients and gets a flavorful twist from bourbon. Makes 1 drink.
The Year of the (Moscow) Mule continues with a nod to the Kentucky Derby: the Kentucky Mule.
Rather than vodka, this variation features bourbon. The result is a warm, oaky backbone balanced by the bright spice of ginger beer and a squeeze of lime.
For a touch of Derby tradition, I like to finely crush the ice and serve the cocktail in a copper mug. That soft, snow-like ice evokes the Mint Julep while keeping the mule’s refreshing profile.
This is an easy, balanced cocktail that showcases bourbon without overwhelming it — a perfect sipper any time the mood calls for something crisp, citrusy, and a little spicy.
What you need to make this recipe:
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- Copper mugs (or your preferred cocktail glasses)
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Measuring jigger or small measuring cup
Let’s talk ingredients!
You may already have most of these items on hand. Scroll to the recipe card for exact measurements and instructions.
Here are the ingredients you need to make this drink:
- Ginger beer — spicy ginger beer is essential for this mule; it’s not the same as ginger ale.
- Bourbon whiskey — choose a bourbon you enjoy, since its flavor comes through in the cocktail.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice — fresh juice brightens the drink and balances the sweet and spicy notes.
- Garnishes — lime wedges or wheels and fresh mint sprigs add aroma and visual appeal.
DID YOU KNOW?
All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Bourbon must be made in the United States from a mash of at least 51% corn, distilled at 160 proof or less, bottled at 125 proof or less, and aged in new, charred white oak barrels.
How to make a Kentucky Bourbon Moscow Mule
1. In a blender, crush ice to a very fine texture — almost like fluffy snow. This optional step gives the drink a cooling, mint-julep–inspired texture.
2. Fill a copper mule mug (or chosen glass) with the crushed ice.
3. Measure 1 ½ oz. bourbon and 4 oz. ginger beer into the mug, then add ½ oz. freshly squeezed lime juice.
4. Stir gently with a cocktail spoon to combine.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge or wheel, and serve immediately.
Erin’s Easy Entertaining Tips
Mules are ideal party drinks: few ingredients, easy prep, and guests can assemble their own if you set up a simple station.
To create a “Mule Bar” for a gathering:
- Set out measuring tools and glasses so guests can build their drinks.
- Squeeze limes one to two hours ahead and refrigerate the juice; quartered limes stored in a container keep for a few days.
- Keep mint fresh in a jar of water so guests can grab garnishes as needed.
- Print or display the ingredient list and measurements so assembly is straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Replacing vodka with bourbon — a spirit closely associated with Kentucky — gives the cocktail its Kentucky identity. Bourbon’s history and regional ties make it a natural choice for this mule variant.
No single brand is required. Choose a bourbon with flavor you enjoy; avoid the lowest-tier bottles since the bourbon’s profile is noticeable in this cocktail.
Yes. For a pitcher serving six: combine 24 oz. ginger beer, 9 oz. bourbon and 3 oz. lime juice. Pour over finely crushed ice and garnish each glass with lime and mint.
Most commercial ginger beers are nonalcoholic, though trace alcohol can occur during fermentation. Check the label if you need a strictly nonalcoholic option.
Quick tips for making a Kentucky Mule
- Prep ingredients in advance if making multiple drinks.
- Always use fresh lime juice for the best balance and brightness.
- Scale the recipe into a pitcher for parties.
- Finely crushed ice, made in a blender, adds a pleasant texture and cools the drink quickly.
Kentucky Mule
Erin Parker, The Speckled Palate
5 mins
5 mins
EQUIPMENT
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- Blender
- Copper mugs
- Cocktail mixing spoon
- Measuring jigger
Ingredients
- 4 oz. ginger beer
- 1 ½ oz. bourbon
- ½ oz. freshly squeezed lime juice
- Crushed ice, for serving
- Fresh mint, for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, crush ice to a fine, snow-like texture (optional but recommended for texture).
- Fill a copper mug or glass with the crushed ice.
- Measure and add the ginger beer, bourbon, and lime juice to the mug.
- Stir gently with a cocktail spoon, garnish with mint and a lime wedge, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 167 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Sodium: 13 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 16 g
Let us know how it was!