A Tequila Mule combines the kick of tequila with the zesty punch of ginger beer and lime juice.
This simple three-ingredient cocktail takes just 2 minutes to mix and puts a Mexican spin on the classic Moscow Mule.
The drink gained popularity in the 2020s as people looked for fresh twists on traditional cocktails. It keeps the signature copper mug of a Moscow Mule but swaps vodka for smooth silver tequila.
Many bartenders add extra flair with muddled jalapeños or a splash of fresh orange juice. These tweaks create new flavor layers while keeping the drink’s refreshing ginger-citrus base that people love.
Tequila Mule Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Copper mug or highball glass
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Ice bucket
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel for garnish
- Optional: 2-3 mint leaves
Instructions
- Add ice to a copper mug or highball glass until it’s about 3/4 full.
- Pour in the tequila and fresh lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently with a bar spoon to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and mint leaves if desired.
- Serve right away while the drink is cold and the ginger beer is fizzy.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Tequila Mule brings a bright, zesty mix of flavors. The lime juice adds a fresh citrus tang that balances the spicy bite of ginger beer.
A mild sweetness from the ginger beer softens the tequila’s earthy notes. The agave spirit shines through without being too strong.
Key Flavor Elements:
- Crisp ginger spice
- Fresh lime tartness
- Smooth tequila warmth
- Light effervescence
The drink starts with a gentle tequila taste and finishes with a pleasant ginger kick. Each sip delivers a refreshing blend of citrus and spice.
The carbonation from the ginger beer creates a lively mouthfeel. Ice keeps the drink cold and slightly dilutes the strong flavors into a balanced mix.
Temperature Note: Best served very cold at 35-40°F (2-4°C) for maximum refreshment and flavor impact.
The copper mug helps maintain the ideal cold temperature and adds a slight metallic note that enhances the ginger spice.
Substitute
A classic Tequila Mule uses tequila, lime juice, and ginger beer. When these ingredients aren’t available, there are several options to create a similar drink.
Replace tequila with vodka to make a Moscow Mule. You can also use rum for a Dark ‘n Stormy variation. Alternatively, gin works well too, creating a gin-ginger combination.
No ginger beer? Mix ginger ale with a splash of lime juice. For a spicier kick, add a few drops of ginger syrup to club soda.
Fresh lime juice can be swapped with bottled lime juice or lemon juice. A squeeze of orange juice adds a different citrus note.
Non-Alcoholic Version:
- Replace tequila with extra ginger beer
- Add a splash of lime juice
- Top with sparkling water
- Garnish with mint leaves
The copper mug can be replaced with any tall glass. The drink will taste the same, though it won’t stay cold as long.
