Ok so you want to drink a Moscow Mule. The drink aside, it's for sure one of the cooler looking drinks out there just for the mug alone. It has an old school feel to it, no to mention the mug usually keeps the drink nice and cold. Now there is a discussion out there about whether or not you should go pure copper or if you should get a much that has a stainless steel lining. Well Chat GPT has some insight for us on this. So let's take a look at two listings and then see what Chat GPT has for us.
First we have the pure copper mug by a brand called Solid Copper. It currently is on Amazon for $12.00 for a 16 oz mug and it has a 4.3 star score on over 1,200 ratings.
Next up we have a pair of stainless steel lined Moscow mule mugs by PG store. Currently on Amazon for $17.99 for two 19 oz mugs. They also have a 4.8 star score on over 6,700 ratings.
OK now that we have that covered let's see what Chat GPT has for us...
"Choosing between copper and stainless steel Moscow Mule mugs depends on personal preferences and specific needs. Here's a comparison of both materials:
Copper Moscow Mule Mug:
Traditional Aesthetic: Copper mugs are the traditional choice for Moscow Mules, as they have been used since the cocktail's inception in the 1940s. They provide an authentic and classic look.
Temperature Regulation: Copper is an excellent conductor of heat, so it quickly takes on the chill from the cocktail, keeping your drink colder for longer periods.
Enhanced Flavor: Some enthusiasts claim that drinking from a copper mug enhances the flavor of the Moscow Mule. This is due to a reaction between the copper and the lime juice, producing a unique taste.
Potential Health Benefits: Copper has antimicrobial properties, which can potentially inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. However, this effect may vary depending on factors such as the purity of the copper and frequency of use.
Maintenance: Copper requires more maintenance to keep its shine. It tends to tarnish over time and may require polishing to maintain its appearance.
Stainless Steel Moscow Mule Mug:
Durability: Stainless steel mugs are highly durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and corrosion. They are less prone to damage compared to copper mugs, making them suitable for outdoor use or in environments where they might experience more wear and tear.
Easy Maintenance: Stainless steel mugs are easy to clean and maintain. They do not tarnish or require polishing like copper mugs, making them more convenient for everyday use.
Temperature Retention: While stainless steel doesn't conduct heat as well as copper, it still provides decent temperature retention, keeping your drink cold for a reasonable amount of time.
Modern Look: Stainless steel mugs offer a sleek and modern appearance, which may appeal to those who prefer contemporary designs over traditional ones.
Safety Concerns: Some individuals may have concerns about the safety of drinking from copper vessels, particularly if they have certain health conditions or allergies. Stainless steel eliminates these concerns as it is inert and doesn't react with acidic beverages like the Moscow Mule.
Ultimately, the choice between copper and stainless steel Moscow Mule mugs comes down to personal preference, aesthetics, and considerations such as durability, maintenance, and potential health benefits. Both materials have their advantages, so it's worth considering what factors are most important to you when making your decision."
Now that is a really good breakdown by the AI and it makes total sense. If you want to go more old school and you don't have any concerns over the safety of drinking from pure copper, then that is what you want to go with. If on the other hand you are not a purist and instead you are totally fine as long as the drink is in the ball park of what it should be, then stainless steel would be the better approach as it is usually cheaper, easier to maintain, and on the whole probably safer to drink from in higher volume.
NOTE: All price and review info is based on the time of posting. The numbers may have changed since the creation of this article. Don't forget to always research everything yourself before you buy it, don't just take our word for it. All links to Amazon on this page are part of the Associates program which gives us commissions, thanks for your support!