LCBO Food & Drink Summer 2019

THE MOSCOW MULE

Vodka’s rocket rise

The Moscow Mule is credited for the incredible boom in vodka’s pop- ularity in North America. Within a few years, the spirit was familiar to guests and bartenders alike, and the Moscow Mule was one of the most trendy new cocktails.

What vodka is best?

There is no doubt that the original vodka for a Mule is Smirnoff ( LCBO 67, $27.20), and being a very neutral-tasting vodka, it works very well. The real fun with this drink is the subtle difference a vodka can make to the final taste. Try experimenting with two of our favourites; the bold, citrus notes that Stolichnaya ( LCBO 225243, $28.50) brings, and the surprising vanilla and coconut undertones of Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka ( LCBO 35840, $28.90).

WHICH GINGER BEER IS BEST? Ginger beer is often mistaken as “beer,” but is actually a nonalcoholic mixer. Ginger beer brands vary in sweetness and spice, but our go-to brands are the perfect balance of both. Try The Great Jamaican Ginger Beer or Grace Island Soda for a nice, spicy kick, or Goslings or Fentimans for a slightly sweeter and lighter taste. Can I use ginger ale? A Mule made with ginger ale is actually called a Buck—a similar but different category of cocktail. If it’s a Mule you want, then ginger beer is the ticket.

The Great Jamaican Naturally flavoured, bright and spicy

Grace Island Soda A blast of spicy, fizzy ginger

goslings Sweet and rich, with a hint of spice

Fentimans Sweet with a unique botanical aftertaste

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SUMMER 2019 FOOD & DRINK