The Moscow Mule is a refreshing vodka cocktail that was invented in the USA in the 1940s. Since vodka is believed to be a Russian product, the drink was named “Moscow Mule.” Today Moscow Mule is one of the most popular cocktails for summer parties or gatherings with friends.
The classic version of a Moscow Mule cocktail consists of vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer, all mixed and served in a solid copper mug. With just three ingredients, the cocktail can be easily prepared at home. You can also add other ingredients to create several delicious and refreshing variations.
In recent years, the cocktail has enjoyed renewed popularity across America. A stylish, traditional copper mug gives the drink its distinctive look and ensures a unique drinking experience.
The Benefits of Copper Mugs
The Moscow Mule cocktail is meant to be served in traditional copper mugs, which have become an essential part of a cocktail. The copper cups look cool and add a certain charm to the drink, making it attractive and easy to recognize. These pretty copper cups add a touch of elegance to your parties and are always a good topic of conversation.
The majority of today’s Moscow Mule cups are made of copper on the outside and food-safe nickel or stainless steel on the inside. However, Moscow Mule mugs made from 100% copper are also available.
These shiny, cool copper mugs are so popular that many customers take the mugs with them when they have finished their drink. In certain parts of the country, customers are only given copper cups if they drink at the bar. In some restaurants, bartenders keep guests’ IDs to prevent cup theft.
Serving the drink in copper cups is essential for proper presentation. Like any other well-prepared drink, Moscow Mule should be poured into the correct drinking vessel. The copper cups are traditional and give the drink a distinctive look and a touch of traditional style. You don’t have to drink your mules from copper mugs, but the copper mug is an unmissable part of its tradition and drinking experience. It is also generally accepted that the cold of a copper mug enhances the taste and aroma of the famous cocktail. Another benefit of using copper mugs is that chilled Moscow Mule served in copper mugs provides an exceptionally cool feeling.
Does a Copper Mug Keep Moscow Mule Cold?
The Moscow Mule cocktail is served ice cold in an elegant, shiny copper mug. Moscow Mule drinkers believe that the copper mug keeps the drink colder than a regular glass. The truth is that a copper mug won’t insulate your drink, but it will make it feel cooler in your hand. As an excellent heat/cold conductor, copper transfers cold to your hand and lips at an astonishing rate, so you can feel and enjoy the cold it provides.
Why are Copper Mugs Lined Inside?
There are two main reasons why the interior of copper mugs is lined with stainless steel or nickel.
1. Copper is a relatively soft material and dents easily. Nickel is often used for the inner lining of copper cups to prevent corrosion and increase the strength and durability of the product.
2. The inner lining prevents copper from leaching into the liquid you consume. Acidic ingredients in a drink and hot conditions can accelerate copper leakage. Ingesting too much extra copper into our system can cause stomach upset or more serious reactions. The inner lining separates the consumed beverage from the copper on the cup wall. As long as the interior lining is not damaged, do not use copper.
How to Clean a Copper Mug?
Over time, copper develops a greenish patina on the surface due to exposure to moisture and oxygen. Unfortunately, copper mugs are not suitable for washing in the dishwasher. Machine washing would accelerate discoloration or even damage copper mugs.
It’s best to wash copper mugs with warm, soapy water and dry them with a soft towel or cloth. To remove the patina from copper and restore its shine, you can purchase a copper cleaning product. Some good options include Wright’s Copper Cream, Wright’s Copper Cream by Weiman, and Blue Magic Metal Polish Cream.
