Mule Mugs

Copper's thermal conductivity is the technical reason behind the tradition. The metal carries the cold of the ice to the surface quickly, so the mug turns cold and holds the drink at temperature longer than a glass. It is the same effect that makes a cold can feel colder than a bottle.

A detail the trade knows: the lime in a Moscow Mule is acidic, and bare copper in direct contact with acidic food is best avoided. Mugs designed for service have a lined interior, usually nickel or stainless steel, which keeps the drink away from the copper and leaves the look and the cold on the outside.

Smooth copper gives a clean, modern line. Hammered copper catches the light and has a handmade look that speakeasies favour. For a more rustic and harder-wearing option there are vintage enamel mugs, with an old-style look and more resistance to knocks. A capacity of 400 to 500ml leaves room for plenty of ice and the ginger beer.

Copper needs a little attention. Wash it by hand and keep it out of the dishwasher, which damages the surface. Over time it can dull and form a patina: some venues polish it back to bright, others keep the worn look. Either way, a mug that is looked after lasts for years.

The Copper Mule Mug is the classic: it chills in moments, stays cold in the hand and gives the Moscow Mule its frosted outside.

The Lumian Moscow Mule Mug 450ml is the service standard: the right capacity for ice and ginger beer, the cold of metal, and a shape that reads from across the bar.

The Tattoo Mule Mug 420ml (Pack of 4) carries a decoration that gives the mule its own identity: one order equips the serve with a mug guests recognise.

Mugs continue with tiki mugs for tropical serves. For long drinks in glass there is the tumbler. The Moscow Mule is built with a jigger and a lime wedge from the chopping board.