Kentucky Mule

The Kentucky Mule is a variation on the standard Moscow Mule that uses Bourbon instead of Vodka. Other than that, the recipe for this cocktail is basically the same. The Kentucky Mule is just one of many "Mule variations" that are out there, including cocktails like the Mezcal Mule, which, as the name would suggest, is Mule made with Mezcal.

While the formula for any Mule style cocktail is fairly basic, it also shows how just changing up the base spirit in a cocktail can change it so much. And, depending on what your favourite spirit is, you can make a type of Mule to suit your taste. And, in this case, if you happen to like Bourbon, maybe the Kentucky Mule is the cocktail for you.

Total Time 3

Servings 1 cocktail

Ingredients

60 mL Bourbon strictly it should be Bourbon, but you can also try Rye
15 mL Lime Juice
90 mL Ginger Beer
Mint Sprig To garnish

Instructions

Add Bourbon and Lime Juice to a copper glass or glass of your choosing filled with ice.
Top up with Ginger Beer.
Garnish and enjoy.

Notes

While you should use a good quality Bourbon for the Kentucky Mule (and for any cocktail for that matter), keep in mind that this cocktail is more about the Ginger Beer and Lime Juice. So make sure you're using fresh and well carbonated Ginger Beer as well as freshly squeezed Lime Juice. Once again, that advice goes for any cocktail you're making. There's no reason to use flat Ginger Beer or old Lime Juice!

In relation to carbonated mixers in general, we like to use smaller individual cans when making cocktails. This ensures the mixer is as fresh and carbonated as possible when it goes into the cocktail. Sure, if you know you're making a few cocktails, a full bottle of Ginger Beer is great to have, but if you're only making one or two, go with cans.

Looking For More Info on the Bourbon Mule?

You can take a whole journey going through different versions of the Mule cocktail. Start with the Moscow Mule, the classic with Vodka, then play with different spirits to see what you like.

Unlike the Kentucky Mule recipe that you see here, some Mule variations don’t just do a simple replacement. They may put in small additions of other juices to better compliment the spirit. If you’re playing with your own version of the Mule, feel free to make some small changes to see what works best for your taste buds and the spirit your using. Have fun!

Can I make more than one Kentucky Mule at the same time by increasing the recipe?

Yes you can. Although the Kentucky Mule is made in the glass, you’re also welcome to make a batch of these in a mixing glass or jug. This way it’s easy to share a few cocktails with friends, which is always a lot of fun!

Will this cocktail stay fresh if I make it to drink later?

No. As mentioned, it’s important to use fresh and well carbonated Ginger Beer. If your Ginger Beer isn’t fresh, you’re not going to have a great tasting cocktail. The good news is though that the Kentucky Mule only takes a couple minutes to make, so if you’re looking to make a few for friends, you won’t have any trouble making a Kentucky Mule to order.

When should I drink a Kentucky Mule?

As with most Mule cocktails, Kentucky Mules are great in warm whether, whether it’s a dry or a humid heat. This is a really refreshing and enjoyable cocktail, so wait for a nice warm day. Maybe reward yourself after doing work around the house, or put your feet up in the back yard on a summer evening.

The Kentucky Mule, and most Mule cocktails for that matter, work as an all around general drink that’s a good replacement for a beer if you want something different.

Is the Kentucky Mule strong?

While there is 60 mL of Bourbon in this cocktail, it’s fairly diluted thanks to all the Ginger Beer. Yes, the ABV of the cocktail will be higher than that of a beer, but there’s enough liquid in there that you won’t get too drunk on these, compared to an Old Fashioned for example, which contains the same amount of Bourbon as the Kentucky Mule, but it’s more concentrated.

What kind of music pairs well with the Kentucky Mule?

Well, anything from Kentucky! Try some good old fashioned Country music or Bluegrass to get the proper Kentucky feel while you’re drinking this cocktail.

If you’re relaxing with a Kentucky Mule, play the music more quietly. If you’re having a party, play that music loud!

Let’s find some more cocktail recipes

If you’re still looking for more cocktail recipes, we have you covered. Either chuck some ingredients into our cocktail generator or browse some of the cocktails below:

All Bourbon cocktail recipes: keep going with the Bourbon and see what you can make!

All Whiskey cocktail recipes: if you want to find some recipes with Whiskey, here you go.

Top Whiskey cocktail recipes: if you just want to see the best Whiskey cocktail recipes, check these out.