Cocktail of the Month: Hot Toddy
When it comes to soothing cocktails, few can rival the Hot Toddy. A timeless drink that warms both body and spirit, the Hot Toddy has a history that stretches across centuries and continents. Let's journey back through time to explore the fascinating beginnings and evolution of this classic winter warmer.
When was the Hot Toddy created?
The Hot Toddy's beginning lies in the 18th century, a period when spirits were often prescribed for their perceived health benefits. Initially made with ingredients like brandy, water, sugar, and spices, the Hot Toddy was embraced as a remedy for ailments ranging from the common cold to the winter chills. The warmth of the spirit, coupled with the soothing effects of honey and lemon, made it a popular choice to ward off winter's bite.
Where Did the Hot Toddy Get its Name?
A popular legend states that the first hot toddies were made in Edinburgh’s pubs by mixing Scotch whiskey with a splash of hot water. This water was said to have been from Tod’s Well, the largest well in the area, thus giving the drink its name.
Although a fun legend, it is more likely that the Hot Toddy got its name from British-occupied India. The word “taddy” in Hindi was a beverage made from fermented palm sap and dates back as early as the 1610s. By the mid-18th century, a taddy in India had come to refer to a “beverage made of alcoholic liquor with hot water, sugar, and spices.”
How did the Hot Toddy Reach America?
As the British Empire expanded its reach, so did the Hot Toddy. Introduced to the American colonies, it adapted to local ingredients and preferences. American variations often included whiskey, a spirit more readily available in the New World.
By the 19th century, the Hot Toddy had firmly established itself as a go-to beverage for both medicinal and recreational purposes. Its reputation as a comforting drink spread through households, taverns, and social circles.
The era of Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933) cast a shadow over the cocktail culture. However, people still found ways to enjoy their spirits. The Hot Toddy’s simplicity, along with the ability to mask the taste of subpar spirits, contributed to its continued popularity during this dry spell.
In the latter half of the 20th century, the Hot Toddy experienced a resurgence as the craft cocktail movement gained momentum. Bartenders began experimenting with different spirits, sweeteners, and spices, elevating the Hot Toddy.
The Modern Hot Toddy
While the classic Hot Toddy typically consists of whiskey, hot water, honey, lemon, and spices, the modern era has witnessed creative variations. Some recipes incorporate tea, infusions, or diverse spirits like rum or brandy. The ingredients may vary, but the essence remains unchanged–a comforting, steaming cup of warmth.
Today, the Hot Toddy is a testament to the enduring allure of simple pleasures. Whether enjoyed for its purported health benefits, as a soothing nightcap, or as a communal drink shared with friends, the Hot Toddy's journey through history mirrors our quest for comfort, connection, and warmth on chilly nights. As winter descends, there's no better time to embrace the age-old tradition of the Hot Toddy and toast to its enduring legacy.
The Eight Oaks Hot Toddy
At Eight Oaks, we make a few varieties of Hot Toddy’s, including:
Citrus Sage Hot Toddy
2 oz Old Tom Gin
2 oz Honey Syrup
Sage
Lemon
Orange Slices
Hot water
Muddle the sage, lemon, and orange slices. Pour in Old Tom Gin and Honey Syrup. Fill with hot water and enjoy!
Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
2 oz Applejack
1 oz Bourbon Caramel
Hot Cider
Combine Applejack and bourbon caramel. Fill with hot cider and enjoy!
Come on in during January and try our Hot Toddys for yourself. 10% of proceeds from Hot Toddy sales go to Second Harvest Food Bank.
Cheers!
We don’t just make whiskey, we make a difference.
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