Last Updated on March 17, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Moscow Mule is a delectable cocktail that you can enjoy any time of the day.
While it only has three ingredients, ginger beer can make or break your cocktail drink.
If you want to get everything right, here are the best ginger beer for Moscow Mule.
Top 15 Ginger Beers To Level-Up Moscow Mule
15. Gosling’s Stormy Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $8.99 for a pack of 6 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 1%
Why We Like It: While Gosling’s Stormy Ginger Beer was created for Dark ‘n Stormy, it is one of the best ginger beers to try for Moscow Mule [1].
Gosling’s Stormy has the right balance of spice and sweetness that not all ginger beers have.
It blends greatly with vodka and fresh lime juice and is an ideal cocktail mixer for versatility.
14. Barritt’s Original Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $7.99 for a pack of 6 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Barritt’s Original Ginger beer is one of the best ginger beer brands for Moscow Mule because of its highly reliable mixability.
The ginger beer contains high fructose corn syrup, which makes ginger beer sweeter than other ginger beers.
In addition, the ginger flavor of Barritt’s is not overpowering and gives out a nice fizz that adds appeal to the Moscow Mule.
Read: Our Favorite Beers For Black & Tan
13. Maine Root Ginger Brew
Average Price: Roughly $2.15 per 12 oz (Drizly )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: If you are looking for a spicy ginger beer that is caffeine free and delivers warm foamy fizz, Maine Root Ginger Brew is a great choice.
Maine Root is made with pure cane sugar juice, purified water, fresh ginger, spice, and happy bubbles for a refreshing taste with a spicy flavor.
12. Royalty Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $24.99 for a pack of 24 (Amazon)
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Royalty Ginger Beer is a bubbly gingery lemonade drink that can make your Moscow mules refreshing and tasty.
It has a crisp ginger flavor and the authentic taste of ginger beer.
Royalty Ginger Beer is meant for you if your palate prefers sweeter ginger beers. It can also be used as a substitute for ginger ale and club soda in mixed drinks.
11. Brooklyn Crafted Mango Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $5 per 12oz (Yeg Exotic )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: If you want a little adventure for your Moscow Mules, Brooklyn Crafted Mango Ginger Beer is a not-so-traditional ginger beer to try.
The flavor-infused ginger beer is bold and rich, with an extra spicy ginger kick from the ginger extract it contains.
Brooklyn Crafted Mango Ginger Beer is made from raw cane sugar, ginger, and mango extracts.
Moreso, you can find ginger bits floating in every bottle since it is unfiltered.
10. Fentiman’s Botanically Brewed Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $14.99 for a pack of 4 (Amazon)
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Fentiman’s Botanically Brewed Ginger Beer is one of the excellent ginger beers for Moscow Mule. It is made in small batches for depth of taste and complex tasting notes.
It is a good ginger beer because it is gluten-free and does not contain preservatives and artificial flavorings. The taste of this refreshing drink reminds us of dark beers.
9. Q Mixers Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $35.99 for a pack of 24 (Q Mixer Official Website )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Q Ginger Beer is one of the best highly carbonated ginger beers for Moscow Mules as it is spicy and not too sweet.
Q Ginger Beer is a spicy ginger beer with natural ginger, organic agave, and the right amount of chili peppers.
It has lower sugar levels than most ginger beers, even ginger ales.
8. Crabbie’s Original Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $25.50 for a pack of 6 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 4%
Why We Like It: Crabbie’s Ginger beer is brewed as a lightly alcoholic beverage and can be your dreamy companion for your Moscow Mule.
It is light and refreshing, with citrus notes and a warming finish. Pour it with vodka and fresh lime juice, and you will have a refreshing cocktail drink.
7. Seabold Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $6 per 12 oz (Single Platform )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Seabold Ginger Beer is a fresh, organic ginger beer to mix in Moscow Mule. It has a fantastic ginger juice color and is lightly carbonated.
The brand uses organic ginger root to make Seabold Ginger Beer. It has a nice balance of lemon juice and a level of spice that fades quickly.
6. CocknBull Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $14.99 for a pack of 6 (Amazon)
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: CocknBull Ginger Beer is an extra ginger soft drink that you use to make a tasty Moscow Mule.
It has a nice spicy burn on the nose and palate with ginger candy notes.
It is sweet and spicy, so when you add it to a Smirnoff vodka, you can enjoy an authentic Moscow mule any time of the day.
5. Zevia Mixer Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $24.45 for a pack of 24 (Zevia Official Website )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Zevia Mixer is a sugar-free ginger beer, and it was crafted to be a mixer.
It is sweetened with Stevia leaf extract, so it is safe to consume by people with gluten intolerance.
In addition, the brand uses non-GMO ingredients [2] to craft ginger beer.
It plays well with cranberry and pineapple juice, as it can stand up and elevate your cocktail.
4. Stoli Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $22.95 for a pack of 4 (Amazon )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Stoli Ginger beer offers well-balanced, elegant, nicely carbonated, and complex tasting notes for those who want fizzy mules.
“The Moscow Mule continues to be one of the most popular cocktails because it’s easy to make and tastes great,”
– Dave McNulty, Vice President of Marketing at Stoli Vodka
It may not be as spicy as other brands, but it stands out because it is committed to providing ginger beers made from pure cane sugar.
3. Reed’s Stronger Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $28.22 for a pack of 8 bottles (Amazon )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Reed’s Extra Ginger Beer stands out because it offers bold, extensive, and rich spicy notes.
It is made in Jamaican style, so the ginger snap will grab your attention.
It is infused with natural fruit juices, spices, and honey for a balanced sweetness and spiciness that you can consume straight up or mixed.
As we tasted it, it hit back our throats and gave an “oomph” to the cocktail.
It is one step up from their original variant as it uses more carbonation, more ginger, and less sugar.
2. Bundaberg Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $31.99 for a pack of 24 (Amazon )
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Bundaberg Ginger Beer is one of the ideal brands for mules because it does not overpower the other ingredients in the cocktail.
Bundaberg’s ginger beer is an excellent option if you are after a traditional and well-balanced ginger beer.
It has the right amount of sweetness and ginger, which results in a refreshing and crisp mixed drink.
1. Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Beer
Average Price: Roughly $6.99 per pack of 4 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: Non-Stated
Why We Like It: Fever-Tree Ginger Beer takes the best spot on our list because it does not contain artificial additives, and its tasting notes do not mess around.
The gingers used are from Cochin, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast. It is a crisp, clean, and ginger-forward mixer that blends seamlessly into cocktail drinks.
It boasts a uniquely balanced flavor profile as it is spicy but not too peppery.
You can find some ginger bits on the bottom of the bottle, which adds artisanal charm and authenticity to the product.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best kind of ginger beer for Moscow mules?
The best kind of ginger beer for Moscow Mules often comes down to personal preference, as it depends on individual taste preferences and desired flavor profiles.
However, many Moscow Mule enthusiasts prefer ginger beers with a bold, spicy kick that can stand up to the other ingredients in the cocktail, such as vodka and lime juice.
Look for ginger beers with natural ingredients and a strong ginger flavor, preferably without artificial sweeteners or preservatives.
Some popular options include Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, Goslings Ginger Beer, and Reed’s Extra Ginger Brew.
What was the original ginger beer for Moscow Mule?
The original ginger beer used for Moscow Mules is believed to be Cock ‘n’ Bull Ginger Beer, which was created by Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock ‘n’ Bull pub in Hollywood, California, during the 1940s.
Legend has it that Morgan teamed up with John G. Martin, president of G.F. Heublein Brothers, Inc., and Rudolph Kunett, president of Pierre Smirnoff & Sons, to promote their respective products: Smirnoff vodka and Cock ‘n’ Bull Ginger Beer.
Together, they invented the Moscow Mule as a way to introduce Americans to vodka, which was relatively unknown at the time. The cocktail quickly gained popularity, thanks in part to the distinctive copper mugs in which it was served, and Cock ‘n’ Bull Ginger Beer became closely associated with the drink.
Is Bundaberg Ginger Beer good for mules?
Bundaberg Ginger Beer is often considered a good option for Moscow Mules by many cocktail enthusiasts. It’s known for its robust ginger flavor, balanced sweetness, and effervescent quality, which can complement the other ingredients in the cocktail without overpowering them.
Bundaberg Ginger Beer is made with real ginger root and traditional brewing methods, resulting in a full-bodied, flavorful beverage that pairs well with vodka and lime juice.
While personal preferences may vary, many people enjoy Bundaberg Ginger Beer for its authentic taste and quality ingredients, making it a popular choice for Moscow Mules and other cocktails.
What is the best ginger beer for a Kentucky Mule?
The best ginger beer for a Kentucky Mule, similar to a Moscow Mule but made with bourbon instead of vodka, is one that complements the bold flavor of bourbon while still providing a satisfying ginger kick.
Look for ginger beers with a robust and spicy ginger flavor that can stand up to the rich, caramel notes of bourbon.
Some popular choices for a Kentucky Mule include Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, Goslings Ginger Beer, and Bundaberg Ginger Beer, as they offer a well-balanced combination of sweetness and heat that pairs beautifully with bourbon.
What is the best type of ginger beer?
The best type of ginger beer often depends on individual taste preferences and intended use. However, high-quality ginger beers typically contain real ginger root, natural ingredients, and minimal additives or preservatives.
Look for ginger beers that offer a balance of sweetness and spiciness, with a refreshing effervescence that enhances cocktails like Moscow Mules, Dark ‘n’ Stormies, and Kentucky Mules. Some popular brands known for producing excellent ginger beer include Fever-Tree, Bundaberg, Reed’s, and Goslings.
Experimenting with different brands and styles can help you discover your favorite type of ginger beer for various cocktails and occasions.
What’s the best kind of ginger beer?
Determining the best kind of ginger beer ultimately comes down to personal preference and the intended use. Some people prefer ginger beers with a strong, spicy kick, while others may prefer a milder, sweeter flavor profile.
Factors to consider when choosing the best ginger beer include the level of ginger intensity, sweetness, carbonation, and overall balance of flavors. Additionally, selecting ginger beers made with natural ingredients and traditional brewing methods can enhance their quality and authenticity.
Popular options among ginger beer enthusiasts include Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, Bundaberg Ginger Beer, Reed’s Ginger Beer, and Goslings Ginger Beer, although the best kind for you may vary based on your taste preferences and intended use in cocktails or standalone enjoyment.
What beer is in a Moscow Mule?
Contrary to its name, a Moscow Mule cocktail doesn’t actually contain beer. Instead, it typically consists of vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice, garnished with a lime wedge.
The ginger beer is a crucial component of the cocktail, providing its signature spicy and refreshing flavor.
While the name “Moscow Mule” might suggest the presence of beer, the cocktail is entirely free of it.
Do you need alcoholic ginger beer for a Moscow Mule?
No, you do not need alcoholic ginger beer for a Moscow Mule. Traditional Moscow Mules are made with non-alcoholic ginger beer, which provides the cocktail with its characteristic spicy kick and effervescence.
The alcohol in the cocktail comes from the vodka, while the ginger beer adds flavor and carbonation.
However, some variations of the Moscow Mule may use alcoholic ginger beer for an extra kick, but it’s not a requirement for making the classic cocktail.
Which ginger beer has the most real ginger?
Several ginger beer brands pride themselves on using real ginger root and natural ingredients to achieve an authentic and robust flavor.
While it’s challenging to determine definitively which ginger beer has the most real ginger, brands like Fever-Tree, Bundaberg, and Reed’s are known for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients, including real ginger.
These brands often boast bold, spicy flavors and minimal processing, resulting in ginger beers that pack a punch and offer a genuine ginger taste.
Ultimately, the brand with the most real ginger may vary depending on individual taste preferences and regional availability, so it’s worth experimenting with different brands to find the one that suits your palate best.
Is Bundaberg real ginger beer?
Yes, Bundaberg Ginger Beer is made with real ginger root and is known for its authentic ginger flavor.
Bundaberg takes pride in using natural ingredients and traditional brewing methods to craft their ginger beer, resulting in a beverage that has a robust and spicy ginger taste.
Many people enjoy Bundaberg Ginger Beer for its quality and authenticity, making it a popular choice for cocktails like Moscow Mules and Dark ‘n’ Stormies.
Is Bundaberg good for Moscow Mules?
Bundaberg Ginger Beer is often considered a good choice for Moscow Mules by many cocktail enthusiasts. Its strong and spicy ginger flavor pairs well with the vodka and lime juice in a Moscow Mule, providing a refreshing and flavorful drinking experience.
Bundaberg’s natural ingredients and balanced sweetness make it an excellent option for cocktails, as it adds depth and complexity to the drink without overpowering the other ingredients.
Ultimately, whether Bundaberg is good for Moscow Mules comes down to personal taste preferences, but many people enjoy its contribution to the classic cocktail.
What is the difference between a Russian mule and a Moscow Mule?
The terms “Russian Mule” and “Moscow Mule” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same cocktail. Both drinks typically consist of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, served over ice in a copper mug and garnished with a lime wedge.
However, some people differentiate between the two by using the term “Russian Mule” to refer to a version made with Russian vodka, while “Moscow Mule” specifically denotes a version made with American vodka.
In reality, there is little practical difference between the two cocktails, as the choice of vodka is largely a matter of personal preference and availability.
Whether you call it a Russian Mule or a Moscow Mule, the cocktail remains a beloved classic enjoyed by many.
Final Verdict: Best Ginger Beer For Moscow Mule
Moscow Mule contains few ingredients, so it is vital to use the highest quality ingredients when you can.
A sharp, spicy ginger beer like Bundaberg, Reed’s, Stoli, and Zevia can give you a full-flavored experience.
But if you want to craft the best Moscow Mule, you can never go wrong with Fever-Tree.
It has the right amount of sweetness on the palate, packed with long-lasting, robust, and deep ginger character. Also, you can use a copper mug to complete your drinking experience.
References:
- Moscow Mule
- From Farm to Fork: Clearing Up the Confusion About Organic and Non-GMO
- Vodka distilled liquor
- Ginger Beer vs Ginger Ale
