Halloween has passed, and the holiday season is upon us, though fall is still holding on in Pittsburgh’s warm weather. To transition from the autumn vibe to winter festivities, Maggie’s Farm Rum and Jackworth Ginger Beer Brewery have collaborated to introduce the Fireside Mule, a spirited, ready-to-drink cocktail.
This drink combines baking spice-flavored rum, organic ginger, lime, and cane sugar in a carbonated format, clocking in at 8% alcohol by volume. The packaging also features artwork by Miller McCormick, depicting the brand’s mascot, Special Agent Dana Skully, in a cozy, fireside setting.
The launch of Fireside Mule coincides with the recent passage of Pennsylvania’s State Senate Bill 688, allowing retail outlets to sell to-go packs of ready-to-drink cocktails containing up to 12.5% ABV. This marks a significant change in a state where strict liquor regulations had long dominated. Now, consumers can find these beverages at supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants, making them more accessible.
Will Grove of Maggie’s Farm highlights the synergy between their established operation and Jackworth, which opened just six months ago in Larimer. He appreciates the grassroots spirit of both companies, and they seem to share a common goal of providing quality products despite their financial constraints in the beginning.
In addition to the Fireside Mule, Maggie’s Farm previously tapped into the hard seltzer market with their 5% ABV Personal Day Hard Seltzers, while Jackworth produces both alcoholic and non-alcoholic ginger beer.
The new cocktail will be available in limited release at the Jackworth brewery and Maggie’s Farm tasting rooms in the Strip District and Upper St. Clair. A broader rollout will occur around November 11, backed by an initial stock of approximately 120 cases. If it proves popular, the producers are considering a second batch.
Fireside Mule is gluten-free, offering a comforting option during the colder months, especially after the unfortunate news of Aurochs Brewing’s closure later this year. The announcement of this partnership came serendipitously while attending a local fall festival at Baked True North, a gluten-free bakery that presented multiple intriguing local vendors.
As the season changes, the combination of craft spirits and community support encapsulates the spirit of Pittsburgh, inviting residents to enjoy the flavors of fall and the warmth of the holidays a bit longer.
For more details, visit Maggie’s Farm Rum and Jackworth Ginger Beer Brewery.