How to Make a London Mule Cocktail

Learn how to make a London Mule, also called a gin-gin mule, which is a delicious twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This refreshing cocktail is made with 3 simple ingredients and is perfect for groups, or sitting out on the deck on a warm summer evening.

Jump to:

• What is a Moscow mule?
• What is a London mule?
• Why is it called gin gin mule?
• Why use copper mugs for a mule cocktail?
• Where can you buy copper mugs?
• Ingredients
• Substitutions
• Instructions
• Tips for making mule cocktails
• What to serve with gin mules
• Storage
• FAQs
• Recipe

When we're talking about classic cocktails, I love a gin and tonic. The herbal, botanical vibes of dry gin, combined with refreshing, slightly bitter tonic water is almost all I need.

But a Moscow mule truly has my heart. I enjoy this cocktail so much that I can't help but try variations. I've made a Christmas mule with cranberry juice, a Mexican mule with tequila, and even a Kentucky mule with beautiful Kentucky bourbon.

And now here we are with the London Mule, aka the gin gin mule. The herbal gin is the star, followed by spicy ginger beer, and zingy lime juice. If you love the traditional Moscow mule, you'll love this easy gin mule. It's the perfect refreshing drink for a hot summer day.

What is a Moscow mule?

The original Moscow mule is a cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.

What is a London mule?

A London mule, or gin gin mule, is a cocktail made with gin, ginger beer, and lime juice.

Why is it called gin gin mule?

The name gin gin is a hint to the ingredients in this cocktail. The first gin is the spirit gin, the second gin refers to the ginger beer.

Why use copper mugs for a mule cocktail?

Mule cocktails are typically served in a copper mug because the metal keeps the drink colder longer.

Where can you buy copper mugs?

Home goods stores usually sell these cocktail glasses. You can also find copper mugs on Amazon which is where I got mine.

Ingredients

See the recipe card for exact amounts.

• gin: I'm Scottish, and I like this Scottish gin - Hendrick's Gin with notes of cucumber and rose. You can use whatever gin you like.
• ginger beer: I like ginger beer for a mule cocktail. It has a powerful ginger flavor and isn't very sweet. Sometimes it's hard to find in my city, so I substitute it with ginger ale when I need to. This makes the drink sweeter.
• lime: fresh lime juice is the best for this gin cocktail, but you could also use bottled lime juice.
• optional: simple syrup to sweeten if needed, and fresh mint leaves.

Substitutions

• ginger beer: If you're going to substitute ginger ale for the ginger beer you won't need any extra sweetener like simple syrup. If using ginger beer, you'll want to taste the drink and see if the sweetness level is right for you. Add simple syrup as needed.

Instructions

This cocktail comes together quickly, no cocktail shaker needed.

I like to use copper mugs, because I have them, but you can use a Collins glass or whatever glass you prefer.

Tips for making mule cocktails

• Use a ginger beer you like. Jamaican style ginger beer from my grocery store has a spicier ginger kick.
• Use lots of ice and serve in a copper mule for a cold and refreshing drink.
• Customize your drink by adding different juices like cranberry juice, or other simple syrup like a jalapeno simple syrup for a bit of heat.

What to serve with gin mules

These cocktails are especially refreshing and would be perfect for a happy hour, serving with honey garlic cauliflower, tortilla chips, guacamole, salsa, and cheeseburger spring rolls.

Looking for more ginger beer cocktail recipes or Moscow mule variations? Try a Kentucky Mule, a Mexican Mule, or a Christmas Moscow Mule next.

Storage

This gin mule recipe is best made one at a time right before serving. I don't recommend making a pitcher unless you are serving the entire pitcher immediately because ginger beer is carbonated and will go flat if it sits.

Recipe