When you sip on a Moscow Mule, you may imagine Tolstoy and Dostoevsky drinking the same cocktail outside the Kremlin in the 1800s. However, Moscow Mules are about as Russian as apple pie or buffalo wings. This popular cocktail originated in Los Angeles about 80 years ago as a way to sell vodka to the American market.

There have been a few variations in the origin story, but according to a 2016 article in the New York Times, the Moscow Mule was the brainchild of John Martin, a Smirnoff executive, and Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock ‘n’ Bull pub on Sunset Strip.

In 1941, Martin was fruitlessly trying sell vodka while Morgan was trying to unload a shipment of ginger beer that was selling equally as poorly. When the two men decided to market their drinks together, the resulting cocktail took off in Hollywood and became the success it is today.

The Moscow Mule is a simple drink perfect for anybody who loves the spicy kick of ginger root. The drink is simple to make and usually consists of vodka, ginger beer, and lime. Several other variations of the drink have gained popularity in recent years. Some common variations include Kentucky Mule (bourbon), London mule (gin), and Mexican mule (tequila). The first time I made this recipe, I substituted the vodka with soju. For a lack of a better term, it could be dubbed the Korean Mule.

Here’s an easy homemade Moscow Mule recipe you can make at home. The subtle taste of cherry makes it the perfect cocktail to keep you cool this summer.

Homemade Cherry Moscow Mule

Serves 1
Prep Time: 10 minutes

1/2 lime
6 cherries, pitted
2 oz vodka
6 oz ginger beer
2 to 3 ice cubes or crushed ice
1 lime slice (optional)
1 mint sprig (optional)

Finely chop the cherries and put them into a copper mug or a glass. Add the juice of half a lime and muddle together. If you don’t own a muddler, you can use a thick wooden spoon or heavy butter knife.

Add the ice cubes or crushed ice and pour in the vodka.

Top with the ginger beer. Add a lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish, if desired.

Moscow mules are traditionally served in a copper mug to keep the drink chilled. If you don’t have a copper mug available, you can use a regular glass instead.