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Kentucky Mule

A spicy‑bright ginger highball where bourbon meets lime and ginger beer.

Base spirit
Whiskey
Style
Highball
Glassware
Copper mug

The Kentucky Mule replaces vodka with bourbon in the classic Mule template, producing a warmer, richer drink with caramel depth beneath ginger spice. Built in a copper mug or highball, it balances heat, citrus, and bourbon sweetness.

A Kentucky Mule in a copper mug with mint and lime garnish.

Ingredients

Servings
  • • 2 oz bourbon
  • • 0.75 oz lime juice
  • • Ginger beer

Did you know?

“Mule variations exploded in the 2000s, with the Kentucky Mule becoming a favorite in bourbon regions.”

Source:PunchDrink archives; Imbibe

Bartender's Note

Choose a spicy ginger beer so the bourbon isn’t lost.

How to make the Kentucky Mule

  1. 1Build in mug over ice.
  2. 2Top with ginger beer.
  3. 3Garnish.

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