Hot Toddies

When the weather outside is frightful—mugs of mulled wine, hot cider and spiced toddies are simply delightful.

The arrival of late autumn’s cold wind has forever been my go-ahead to cocoon myself in a cable-knit sweater and a quilt in front of a warm fireplace. And what is my soothing beverage of choice for this snugglefest? A toasty toddy of course.

Hot toddies are warm alcoholic beverages oftentimes filled with aromatic spices and flavors. Though their history is a little muddled, it is believed the name “toddy” is derived from the Hindu word tari – a traditionally sweet alcoholic drink made from palm sap.

So cuddle up and try the following simple mixes for relaxing sippers:

• 1 oz of bourbon mixed in a cup of boiling hot water with honey and fresh lemon juice. Stir with cinnamon stick.
• Heat white wine. Add honey, a splash of pear brandy, ginger, cloves and a slice of an Asian pear to top.
• Bring apple cider to a light simmer then add a small amount of Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur and a few drops of blackstrap bitters.
• Combine a piece of lime zest, four dried cherries and a teaspoon of sugar in a mug. Add 2 ounces of rye and pour boiling water on top.
• Make an adult version of our Mayan Hot Chocolate by adding a few ounces of a rich seasonal liqueur. And with tasty flavors out there such as pumpkin pie, chocolate and white chocolate—it is hard to go wrong with your liqueur choice.

—By Emily Arno