.The Story Behind the River Wildlife Mule: A Wisconsin Ginger Cocktail Tradition
Some cocktail recipes begin behind a bar.
This one began nearly fifty years ago on horseback.
Long before River Wildlife became one of Wisconsin's most beloved destinations, two friends were cutting riding trails through the woods along the Sheboygan River.
One of those men was my father, Frank "Jake" Jacobson.
The other was Herbert V. Kohler
A Friendship Built on Horses and Adventure
My father and Herbert Kohler met in the late 1960s through a shared love of horses.
What began as a common interest quickly developed into a lifelong friendship.
On crisp Wisconsin mornings, the two would saddle up at the Kohler stables and head into the woods carrying whatever tools were needed to clear brush, remove fallen trees, and create new riding trails.
One of those trails still winds along the eastern bank of the Sheboygan River today.
It is appropriately known as the HVK Trail
The Birth of Jake's Camp
As the trail follows the river, it eventually opens into a beautiful clearing overlooking the water.
At some point during those early trail-building adventures, Herbert stopped, looked through the trees, and imagined something special.
He envisioned a log cabin.
A place where friends could gather after a day outdoors.
A place filled with laughter, stories, a warm fire, and good conversation.
The location eventually became known as "Jake's Camp."
Years later, that vision would evolve into one of the most unique destinations in Wisconsin
River Wildlife: A Kohler Hidden Gem
Today, River Wildlife has become a favorite gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts, sportsmen, and visitors seeking a taste of Wisconsin's natural beauty.
Nestled along the Sheboygan River, the lodge reflects the same spirit of adventure, friendship, and hospitality that inspired its creation decades ago.
Visitors can still walk portions of the HVK Trail and experience the peaceful surroundings that first captured Herbert's imagination.
The River Wildlife Mule
If you find yourself inside the lodge on a cool evening, take a look near the coat rack.
You may notice a framed chalkboard displaying the recipe for the River Wildlife Mule.
River Wildlife's signature take on the classic Moscow Mule.
What makes me smile is that the recipe includes two ingredients that would have been appreciated by the men who helped create this place:
A good bourbon.
And Jake's StrongGinger
Why Ginger Makes the Perfect Mule
A great mule depends on bold ginger flavor.
The spicy character of ginger balances beautifully with bourbon while adding brightness and complexity to the drink.
That's one reason Jake's StrongGinger works so well in cocktail recipes.
Made from:
- USDA Organic Peruvian Ginger
- Whole Organic Lemons
- Purified Water
our steeped ginger juice delivers the bold flavor that great cocktails deserve.
River Wildlife Mule Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 2 oz Jake's StrongGinger
- ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice
- Ice
- Lime Wedge for Garnish
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug or rocks glass with ice.
- Add bourbon, Jake's StrongGinger, and fresh lime juice.
- Stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Enjoy beside a fire if possible.
A Toast to Friendship
What I love most about this cocktail isn't the recipe.
It's the story.
It's a reminder that many of life's best moments begin with friendship, curiosity, hard work, and a willingness to explore.
The HVK Trail.
Jake's Camp.
River Wildlife.
These places exist because two good men shared a vision and spent countless hours together doing what they loved.
Every time I enjoy a River Wildlife Mule, I think of those rides through the woods and the friendship that made them possible.
I think we can all raise a glass to that.
To Your Health,
Tryg "Jake" Jacobson
Founder, Jake's StrongGinger