There is not a lot to say here honestly. I was introduced to the “mule” years ago (the vodka, ginger beer and lime concoction marketed so well in a copper mug), and you have heard me talk about the Dark and Stormy, which is essentially the same thing but with dark rum (Goslings being classic).
I only subscribe to one foodie magazine (although in times past I had Cook’s Illustrated and Lucky Peach arrive), and that is Food and Wine. I do think that F&W has gotten worse over the years (tad too political and less charm), but I still like it enough I guess.
Anyway I still get it and one month of some year ago, there was a little spin on the mule. It was an “Italian” berry mule. I tried it and loved it.
I guess the thing that makes it “Italian” is the balsamic vinegar add. Not really sure but I will go with it. The balsamic has a nice sweet-tartness to it. I don’t want to sound too pretentious so I won’t add a bunch of dramatic adjectives. The bottom line is if you like mules, you need to add this to the fave list, or at least try it, especially when you have some berries laying around.
“Italian” Berry Mule
Small handful of raspberries (blueberries and blackberries also great)
2 oz vodka
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/4 oz simple syrup
1/2 t balsamic vinegar, the thicker the better
2 oz ginger beer
Lime wedge or wheel, mint leaf nice too
Muddle your berries in bottom of cocktail shaker/pitcher. Add vodka, lime, and simple. Stir for 20-30 seconds with a good handful of ice. Strain over ice in your favorite glass (clear glass preferred over the copper mug on this one because looks cool but no big) . Top with ginger beer and drizzle balsamic over top of that. Lime wheel or wedge for garnish.
