Which of these cocktails is NOT typically classified as a spirit-forward cocktail?

The Moscow Mule is considered the correct choice as a cocktail that is not typically classified as spirit-forward. Spirit-forward cocktails are those that predominantly feature spirits as their main ingredients, with minimal dilution or non-alcoholic components.

In the case of the Moscow Mule, the drink is typically composed of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. The presence of ginger beer, which is a significant portion of the cocktail, provides sweetness and flavor that makes the drink more refreshing and less focused on the alcohol content. This contrasts with spirit-forward cocktails like Negroni, Martini, and Manhattan, which are primarily made up of spirits and have a lower ratio of mixers, often showcasing the characteristics of the base spirit more prominently.

Thus, the Moscow Mule stands out as a more approachable, refreshing beverage rather than a spirit-forward drink that highlights the potency of its ingredients.