The Moscow Mule made with whiskey instead of vodka is called a Kentucky Mule — and it's better. The whiskey adds depth that vodka can't. Here's the non-alcoholic version that keeps all of that.
What You Need
- 2 oz No. 86 Non-Alcoholic Whiskey
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 4–5 oz ginger beer (Fever-Tree or Q)
- Ice
- Copper mug (or rocks glass)
- Lime wheel and mint sprig to garnish
How to Make It
- Fill your copper mug with ice — all the way to the top.
- Add No. 86 and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer, pouring slowly.
- Stir once gently with a bar spoon.
- Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim and a slapped mint sprig tucked into the ice.
Why the Copper Mug
The copper mug isn't just aesthetic — copper conducts cold extremely well, so the mug gets frosty fast and keeps the drink colder longer than glass. It also intensifies the carbonation slightly because of the way the metal interacts with the bubbles. If you don't have one, a rocks glass works fine. But the mug is worth having if you make mules regularly.
Ginger Beer Selection
Fever-Tree Ginger Beer is spicier and drier — better for people who want the ginger to punch through. Q Ginger Beer is slightly sweeter and more aromatic. Bundaberg is a reliable budget option. Avoid Canada Dry ginger ale — it's too sweet and has almost no ginger heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a Whiskey Mule and a Whiskey Ginger?
Almost the same drink. The Mule is traditionally served in a copper mug, uses more lime, and the lime is more prominent. A Whiskey Ginger is typically in a tall glass with less citrus emphasis.
Can I add bitters?
Yes — 2 dashes of Angostura bitters (All the Bitter makes a great non-alcoholic version) adds complexity. It makes the drink taste more intentional without changing the fundamental character.
Do I shake it or just build it in the mug?
Build it in the mug. Shaking a carbonated drink flattens it. Add the ingredients over ice and top with ginger beer — no shaking needed.
Cold mug. Real ginger. No. 86.
The Kentucky Mule format, without the bourbon. Same ritual, different morning.
→ Shop No. 86 — from $35.99
Make this recipe with No. 86 non-alcoholic whiskey — built for cocktails like this one.