Endlessly evaluating the population at large, it’s impossible to predict exactly when or if a trend with actually come to bear, but that sure doesn’t stop us from trying. One of the most recent assessments that hit my radar was which drinks would be big this summer.
Preferences appear to be split across the country, showing a rise in appreciation for the aperol spritz and negroni in along the west coast, while easterners are more likely to quaff hard seltzer or froze to beat the heat. However, Moscow mules were indisputably on the decline across the board, having peaked in popularity long ago. Those copper mugs are so 2018.
Naturally, that’s exactly what I find myself gravitating towards.
Rather than claiming I was on board before it was cool, I’m proud to proclaim that I’m all in after it was cool. Much less pretentious, just a bit slow, I’ve discovered the charm of bracing ginger and lime over ice, spiked with the clean, crisp bite of vodka. It’s hard to go wrong with such a classic combination, which begs the question, just who is turning up their noses to proclaim it as passe? Besides, you’ve already got the cups knocking around in the back of your cabinet… What else are you going to do with them?
Meeting Russia by way of Japan, my eastern inspiration swaps vodka for sake, lime for bold, astringent yuzu juice, and adds a touch of matcha for an earthy foil. Paired with bracing ginger beer for both a sweet and spicy bite, this new blend could very well become a trend-setter after all.
Tokyo Mule

Meeting Russia by way of Japan, my eastern inspiration swaps vodka for sake, lime for bold, astringent yuzu juice, and adds a touch of matcha for an earthy foil. Paired with bracing ginger beer for both a sweet and spicy bite, this new blend could very well become a trend-setter after all.
Ingredients
- 1/4 Cup Sake
- 1 Teaspoon Matcha
- 1/2 Cup Ginger Beer
- 1 Fresh Yuzu
Instructions
Vigorously whisk the matcha into the sake, breaking up any and all clumps before proceeding. Mix in the ginger beer and a squeeze of fresh yuzu juice, to taste (1 - 2 tablespoons.) Pour over ice and garnish with an additional slice of yuzu, if desired.
Notes
In a pinch, lemon can be used instead of yuzu.
Recommended Products
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Q Mixers, Q Ginger Beer Spectacular Ginger Beer, 12 Fl Oz Slim Can (Pack of 12)
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Moscow Mule Copper Mugs - Set of 4-100% HANDCRAFTED Food Safe Pure Solid Copper Mugs - 16 oz Gift Set with BONUS: Highest Quality 4 Cocktail Copper Straws and 1 Shot Glass with Recipe Booklet!
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Jade Leaf Matcha Green Tea Powder - USDA Organic, Authentic Japanese Origin - Classic Culinary Grade (Smoothies, Lattes, Baking, Recipes) - Antioxidants, Energy [1 Ounce (30 Gram) Starter Size]
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 140Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 10mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 0gSugar: 16gProtein: 0g
All nutritional information presented within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on BitterSweetBlog.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. Even though I try to provide accurate nutritional information to the best of my ability, these figures should still be considered estimates.
This sounds wonderful, such a fun twist on a favorite. Thanks!
We love Moscow mules and the copper cups as well, although we, as you, came to them after they were “in.” Your recipe sounds delightfully refreshing.
janet