Mule 2.0, makers of the popular ready-to-drink (RTD) Moscow Mule, announced a major flavor expansion. The beverage company just released four new spirits-based canned cocktails, all of which are five percent ABV.

Joining the party is the gin-based London Mule, the Mexican Mule made with Tequila, a rum-based Caribé Mule, and a bourbon-based Old Fashioned Mule. The London, Mexican, and Caribé Mules all contain infused lime blends, while the Old Fashioned is made with orange bitters.

Pioneer pulled by mules

Mule 2.0, a woman-owned and operated business, spent 2020 developing these new additions to the portfolio. The cocktail company helped lead the RTD resurgence when it launched its first Moscow Mule six years ago.

The original 2.0 Moscow Mule was an early entry into the RTD Moscow Mule space. The cocktail company promises that these new flavors meet the high standard set by the standard Moscow Mule although since it came in at eight percent ABV, these are not as strong as the original.

CEO and founder Lisa Marlow is a geologist by trade who started Mule 2.0 upon growing obsessed with the vodka-based drinks. Yet she found herself desiring more consistency when preparing her favorite copper-mugged cocktails. Canning these drinks, modeled after the original 1941 Moscow Mule, allows consumers to enjoy a perfectly mixed and authentic taste with every drink.

“Our fans think we nailed the flavor of the original Moscow Mule, so we are excited for them to try these new cocktails that are also made with real spirits” Marlow said in a press release announcing the new RTDs. Fans love the portable convenience of pre-made cocktails, which are suitable for a number of (socially distanced) occasions.

RTDs continue to rise

Recently the RTD category has been growing exponentially, assisted by hard seltzer’s homerun. Alcohol delivery service Drizly reported the RTD segment, which includes hard seltzer in their calculations, grew 416 percent in year-over-year sales.

As drinking moved from bars and restaurants to consumers’ homes thanks to closures caused by COVID-19 safety restrictions, the popularity of RTDs has further accelerated.

Pre-pandemic, RTDs experienced 21.5 percent year-over-year off-site growth, according to Nielsen. However, during the 23-week pandemic period ending on August 8th, growth was up 86.8 percent.

Consumers appreciate the opportunity to enjoy quality craft cocktails, such as Mule 2.0’s portfolio of RTDs, from the safety of home.

Mules in particular have also exploded in popularity, growing to become one of America’s favorite cocktails. The copper mugs in which it is served have grown in popularity alongside the drink. Some people believe these aren’t just a pretty accessory, but actually insulate the ginger beer while keeping it refreshingly chilled.  Perhaps those copper mugs have an insulating liner!

Indeed, the iconic copper-mugged drink turns 80 this year, and the new varieties available from Mule 2.0 are the perfect way to celebrate this octogenarian.

Where to buy Mule 2.0

The new Mule 2.0s (3.0?) will be in stores starting this month. They are currently available in 35 states and can be ordered for delivery via Drizly where a four-pack retails for $10.99.

Erin Grafton
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