There are a lot of drinks out there labeled as “sexy.” Now what makes a drink become sexy I have no idea. I do recognize a certain feeling or mood that can accompany a drink- that summer feeling where a good crisp white wine hits the spot, a dark stormy night when that glass of a smooth red just seems so right. A relaxing Friday night when a pitcher of margaritas makes the sunset all the more spectacular, or in the case with this drink, a lazy Sunday evening when a refreshing yet interesting cocktail just seems perfect. Enter the Moscow mule, well as traditionally known. I prefer gin in almost all drinks to vodka. Why add something that offers nothing in return? I know what you are thinking, well vodka offers a lot in return, lol but I am talking about flavor. I feel each ingredient should either build flavor or add some complexity to a drink. Gin can take an ordinary mule and turn it into something so much more interesting. Why stop there? Splash in some elderflower liqueur and suddenly your taste buds rejoice and you forget all about it being Sunday.

Try this drink out, I promise you will not be disappointed. It’s worth the splurge on the liqueur, St. Germaine is by far my favorite but in a pinch some cheaper options will work as well. I,  having to settle this time-around when my grocery only had another brand. As for gin, use your favorite. Personally Hendricks is my go-to but after having a rather fun-filled Labor Day weekend I was all out, step in the back-up.

So no matter your mood…

Gin & Elderflower Mule

• 2.5 oz Gin
• 1 oz fresh lime juice (I use one whole lime)
• 6 oz ginger beer
• 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
• lime wedge for garnish

Fill a glass of your choice with ice, add gin, lime juice, and ginger beer. Stir well then top it with the elderflower liqueur. Garnish with the lime wedge.

Notes: Gin preference: Hendricks. Ginger beer preference: Fever Tree or Stoli for more zing. Elderflower liqueur: St. Germaine 

Mint leaves are another great garnish. You can even muddle some in the drink if you like it mint-heavy. 

Photo Props: Frank Filice (top photo)