Moscow Mule: a mixed drink served with 3 parts ginger beer, 1 part vodka, 1 part lime juice, add garnishes of mint or ginseng for specialties; serve over ice and stir.

Primary Alcohol: Ginger beer and vodka

Serving size: 10 oz Copper mug

My Moscow Mule came over lunch at Quinton’s during one of the freezing cold days in Iowa City. The parts of this drink that stand out the most come from the copper serving mug and the strong taste of ginger beer.

I chose this drink because it has been present in menus at many of my favorite cocktail bars but also because the inclusion of vodka mixed with beer has made me a fan since I tried a blueberry Stoli with lemon beer. I figured this would be a good option.

Appearance: It’s a yellow colored beverage, but being served in the copper mug hides the body from me. Generally served with a lime wedge.

Taste: Ginger is used with sushi to clear your palate, refreshing it for the next bite. With a drink, your mouth is continually reminded of the ginger beer, leaving the lime and vodka on the side.

Advice: Surprisingly strong but extremely bitter. Great drink for the winter, even though it’s served on ice.

— by Ben Verhille