How to Make a Lemon Moscow Mule

WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

A variation on the classic cocktail, a Moscow Mule with lemon is a simple, sharp mixed drink that uses Absolut Citron. Also known as a Citron Mule, it uses three key ingredients – lemon flavored vodka, ginger beer and lime juice – and is traditionally served in a copper mug to keep it properly chilled for longer.

With just a handful of ingredients, there’s plenty of space to experiment with different twists and garnishes. It’s also easy to mix, making the lemon-flavored vodka Mule suited to casual gatherings or quiet nights in.

Ingredients

ml Parts

Ice Cubes

Ice Cubes
45 ml Absolut Citron

1 ½ Parts Absolut Citron
90 ml Ginger Beer

3 Parts Ginger Beer
15 ml Lime Juice

½ Parts Lime Juice
1 Wedge Lime

1 Wedge Lime
Mint Leaves

Mint Leaves

Number of Servings

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How to Mix a Lemon Moscow Mule

Mixing a lemon Mule is quick and easy. In fact, there are only three steps:

Fill a mule mug with ice cubes.
Add the Absolut Citron vodka, ginger beer and lime juice. Stir.
Finally, garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaf.

What is a Lemon Moscow Mule Cocktail?

A Moscow Mule with lemon is simply a twist on the classic cocktail – but uses Absolut Citron as the base. It’s famously simple to make, needing only our vodka, ginger beer and lime juice, and is traditionally garnished with a lemon wedge and mint leaf.

It’s usually served in a copper mug, which not only gives the drink its signature look, but also helps keep the lemon Mule cold.

What Does a Moscow Mule with Lemon Taste Like?

A Lemon Moscow Mule tastes sharp and citrusy – thanks to the lemon-flavored vodka – and a little spicy thanks to the ginger beer. The zest and tartness of the lemon perfectly complements the sharpness of the vodka and the slight bitterness of the mixer.

Lemon Mules are a great choice for people who love bright, fizzy cocktails, with a little bit of warmth at the end. Simple, refined and subtly punchy, a Moscow Mule with lemon provides a perfectly balanced flavor profile – making it a popular choice for warm weather.

The History of the Moscow Mule with Lemon

The Lemon Moscow Mule is based on the original Moscow Mule. This is said to have originated in 1940s New York, from a collaboration between a bartender, vodka seller and ginger beer maker who combined their efforts to create a new and exciting tipple. The trio then had the idea to use the iconic copper mug – and the rest is history, and a host of Mule variations.

Tips for Making the Perfect Moscow Mule with Lemon

Ready to master the art of the Lemon Moscow Mule? Try these tips for the best results.

Choose Great Ingredients

The Lemon Moscow Mule is such a simple cocktail that its three ingredients are the stars of the show. Of course, Absolut Citron vodka is essential to getting the recipe off to a perfect start. Next, get your hands on some fresh lime rather than buying store-bought juice, and choose your favorite brand of ginger beer to bring it all together.

Chill Your Copper Mugs Beforehand

Copper mugs help keep things cold and fresh. Place in the freezer for at least ten minutes before mixing so you can experience this cocktail at the right temperature. You won’t regret it – especially on a sunny day.

Pick the Right Glass

If you don’t have any copper mugs to hand, the next best thing is stainless steel, or even a rocks glass. You can pre-chill the steel cups, but you’ll need to make sure your glasses are freezer-safe before doing so. When in doubt, just use plenty of ice to keep things cool.

Variations of a Moscow Mule with Lemon

There are a few ways to switch up your Lemon Mule.

To go the ‘full lemon’, swap out the lime juice for freshly squeezed lemon. Watch those tastebuds tingle!
If you find the ginger beer a touch too spicy for your liking, you can always use lighter, sweeter ginger ale instead for a slightly mellower take.

Like the Moscow Mule with Lemon but want to try something a little different? Check out our variations on the Moscow Mule.

Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Lemon Moscow Mule

This classic cocktail can really be elevated through some creative presentation. This is where you can really experiment with different twists and garnishes. The copper mug does most of the heavy lifting here – but don’t worry if you don’t have one to hand.

Simple, striking garnishes that stand out against the color of the drink give the Mule its statement look. Think bright green mint leaves, a bold lemon wedge, or even a handful of berries if you’re going with a fruity vodka.
A slice of dried orange slice will always work well with the spiciness of ginger beer.
For something even more exotic, how about a sprig of lemongrass?

Moscow Mule with Lemon FAQs

What’s the Difference Between a Moscow Mule and a Lemon Moscow Mule?

A Moscow Mule is made of vodka, ginger beer and lime juice, while a Lemon Mule uses lemon-flavored vodka. This dials up the citrus element of the drink for an extra zesty taste.

Why is a Moscow Mule with Lemon Served in a Copper Mug?

With a cocktail like the Lemon Moscow Mule, getting things ice-cool – and keeping it there – is an important part of the drink. A copper mug can be quickly and easily chilled before mixing, making sure your cocktail stays crips and cold the whole way through

Can You Make a Lemon Moscow Mule Without Ginger Beer?

While ginger beer is a core ingredient in the Lemon Mule, ginger ale can also be used for a sweeter, mellower alternative. You could use soda water and ginger syrup if ginger beer isn’t available – or just good ol’ soda water.