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Classic Cocktail with a Twist

Hot Toddy

The Hot Toddy is the definition of a classic. First appearing as a cure-all for the cold in 1700’s Scotland, at its most basic level, it’s little more than spirit, water and sugar. But even in today’s colder months, the Toddy still remains an effective cure against long, dark winter nights.

MAKE YOUR OWN

Hot Toddy

ingredients

2 oz ANGEL'S ENVY Bourbon finished in port wine barrels
1 oz honey
1/4 oz lemon juice
3 oz hot tea or water

directions

Combine hot water and honey in a mug.
Add ANGEL’S ENVY Bourbon & lemon juice.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or cloves.
Add maple syrup for an Autumn feel or steeping a favorite tea bag for more complexity.

Ways to Enjoy
a classic Hot Toddy

A Hot Toddy with bourbon is a comforting and warming drink, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Although used in the past for colds and sore throats, this is not a substitute for medicine as the Hot Toddy may soothe your symptoms but will not cure them. But, if you fancy warming up on a winter night, here are some ways to enjoy a classic Hot Toddy cocktail at home.

Pairings for a Classic Hot Toddy

To complement the citrus notes in your Hot Toddy, other lemon-based foods pair well such as lemon bars or lemon-infused cakes. Ginger cookies or snaps provide a spicy and warm contrast to the soothing qualities of the Hot Toddy. Those with a sweet tooth can opt for dark chocolate, particularly one with orange or chili notes, or if you prefer savory, mild cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, with crackers or crusty bread can offer a savory balance to the drink’s sweetness.

How to serve a Classic Hot Toddy

As the name suggests, a Classic Hot Toddy is hot. So you need to serve your warm drink in a heat-resistant glass, metal cup, or mug, this will allow the cocktail to retain its heat without burning yourself!

Your Hot Toddy with bourbon should be a pale golden-amber color, clear not cloudy. You should be able to smell a nice blend of the bourbon, citrus, and notes of the cinnamon and cloves. The taste will be warm, with the lemon adding a refreshing note to balance the heat from the bourbon and cinnamon.

Picture twinkling Christmas lights, a snow blanket on the ground, and you’re holding the ultimate winter warmer—a Hot Toddy crafted with the velvety smoothness of Angel’s Envy Bourbon.

Rooted in tradition yet endlessly versatile, the Hot Toddy recipe has evolved from a humble remedy to a winter favorite, and when made with Angel’s Envy, this classic cocktail transforms into a luxurious celebration of flavor, warmth, and holiday spirit.

How to Make a Hot Toddy

A Hot Toddy is a comfort-made liquid. And with just a handful of ingredients, it’s as straightforward as it is satisfying.

Hot Toddy Ingredients

• 2 oz Angel’s Envy Bourbon: The foundation. Its rich vanilla and oak notes bring warmth and depth, while the port wine finish adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1 oz honey: Sweet, smooth, and comforting. Honey not only sweetens but adds a velvety texture. Try spiced honey for a holiday twist.
• ¼ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice: Bright and zesty, it cuts through the sweetness and ties the flavors together. Lemon juice also provides that crisp, refreshing contrast.
• 3 oz hot tea: The tea is the backbone, carrying all the flavors. Chai, spiced apple, ginger tea, or black tea all work well.
• Optional garnishes: Cinnamon stick, star anise, whole cloves, or orange slice. These garnishes enhance aroma and flavor, turning your Toddy into a sensory experience.

Step-by-step directions

1. Warm the mug: Fill your mug with boiling water and let it sit for a minute. Empty it before adding your ingredients. This keeps your drink warmer for longer.
2. Mix the honey and tea: Add the honey to your mug, pour in the hot tea, and stir until the honey dissolves. This step is crucial—it’s your flavor base.
3. Add bourbon and lemon juice: Pour in Angel’s Envy and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. The bourbon’s richness and the lemon’s zest mingle here beautifully.
4. Garnish: Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or an orange/lemon slice. These little details add visual charm and enhance the aroma as you sip.
5. Serve immediately: A Hot Toddy is best enjoyed steaming hot, with the garnishes releasing their subtle scents.

Pro-tip: Swap honey for maple syrup, or replace some of the tea with spiced apple cider. Add a pinch of dark rum for a slightly sweeter variation of the recipe.

How to Serve a Hot Toddy for Christmas Gatherings

The way you serve a Hot Toddy matters—it’s as much about the atmosphere as the drink itself. The presentation turns a simple cocktail into a holiday centerpiece.

• Choose the right glassware: Clear glass mugs let the warm amber glow of bourbon and tea shine, emphasizing the drink’s visual appeal. For a cozier vibe, go for holiday-themed ceramic mugs adorned with seasonal patterns.
• Garnish with intention: A sprig of rosemary doubles as a festive tree, while cranberries add a pop of color reminiscent of holly berries. Dip the rim of your mug in honey and sugar for a frosty effect that glistens like fresh snow.
• Create a festive tableau: Serve your Hot Toddies on a tray decorated with fairy lights or evergreen sprigs. Add Christmas-themed napkins and scatter a few cinnamon sticks or star anise for an aromatic touch.

Pairings for a Classic Hot Toddy

A good drink becomes great with the right food. The Hot Toddy’s warm spices and rich bourbon make it an excellent companion for holiday treats.

• Sweet pairings: Gingerbread cookies enhance the spice notes. A slice of fruitcake echoes the port wine finish of Angel’s Envy. Or go simple with peppermint bark, a perfect complement to the drink’s warmth.
• Savory options: A cheese platter works wonders. Think brie for creaminess, smoked cheddar for boldness, and crusty bread for texture.
• Dessert indulgence: Pair it with dark chocolate infused with orange zest or a decadent Christmas pudding. Both amplify the drink’s festive undertones.

Ways to Enjoy a Classic Hot Toddy Cocktail

Once used as a soothing remedy for colds, the Hot Toddy recipe has evolved into a wintertime favorite—perfect for any occasion where warmth and comfort are key.

• On a cold night: Snuggle up with a blanket and a good book while the Toddy’s cozy warmth washes over you. Add soft Christmas carols for the perfect ambiance.
• On holiday gatherings: Wow your guests by serving Hot Toddies in heatproof glass mugs. The golden hues and festive garnishes make them as delightful to look at as they are to sip.
• As a nightcap: Wind down from the holiday hustle with a warming whiskey drink. Its soothing blend is the perfect way to toast the season’s best moments.

FAQs

Does a Hot Toddy actually help a cold?

Yes, but it’s not a cure. Sipping on a Hot Toddy for cough relief can feel very soothing. The honey helps coat your sore throat, the fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, and the warm liquid can ease congestion. It’s comfort in a mug, but enjoy it responsibly—it’s no replacement for rest and hydration.

Why do you put whiskey in Hot Toddy?

Whiskey, like Angel’s Envy Triple Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, brings heat and complexity to a Hot Toddy. Its bold flavors balance the sweetness of honey and the brightness of lemon, creating a harmonious sip every time.

Hot Toddy Questions

Commonly Asked

What is a Hot Toddy?: A Hot Toddy is a hot cocktail made by mixing whiskey with lemon and spices, this is a comforting drink to enjoy during the colder months.
Where did the Hot Toddy originally come from?: Although we do not know officially, the Hot Toddy is believed to originate in 18th century Scotland as the concept of warm spirits being used as a remedy for colds and sore throats swept across Europe. Now, however, this is simply a classic delicious cocktail to enjoy in the cold weather.