Copper Finish Moscow Mule Mug

The mule mug earns its place through physics rather than tradition: metal takes on the temperature of its contents almost instantly, so the outside frosts and the drink stays cold to the last mouthful in a way a glass never manages. These are offered in three tones — rose gold, red brass and silver — and two surfaces, hand-hammered or smooth.

Each mug is formed from a single piece with a soldered handle, holds around 450 ml, and carries a food-safe lining so the drink never sits against bare copper. The hammered version is dimpled by hand, which makes every mug slightly different and gives a better grip on a condensing surface; the smooth version is polished flat and reads more modern. The handle is set high and wide so fingers stay off the chilled body.

Beyond the obvious ginger beer and lime, they work for iced coffee, cold brew and anything served over ice. Hand wash in warm soapy water and dry immediately — dishwashers will strip the finish. Copper tone will patinate gently with use; a little lemon and salt restores the shine if you prefer it bright. The set of four is the sensible buy if you entertain at all, since the mugs look considerably better arranged together than a single one does on its own.

• Around 450 ml capacity, food-safe lined interior
• Tones: rose gold, red brass, silver
• Surfaces: hand-hammered or smooth polished
• Sold singly or as a set of four
• High-set soldered handle
• Hand wash only; not dishwasher safe
• Patinates naturally with use