In these strange times, a hot toddy feels appropriate, says Susy Atkins
I’m calling for an extension of hot toddy season. A steaming tumbler of spirit, sugar, spice and boiled water is, of course, primarily a drink for the coldest months, but in these strange times it seems appropriate through Easter and beyond. I made a classic hot whisky toddy the other night and it was very soothing – not only the shot of alcohol, warmth and sweetness, but also the ritual itself.
My go-to recipe is 30ml whisky (a toddy shouldn’t be too strong), a teaspoon of sugar (preferably brown, but white is fine), two cloves (no more, they can overpower), 60ml very hot water (not actually boiling), and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir – with a cinnamon stick if you feel fancy – and drink straightaway but slowly, hands around the glass, breathing in the steam between sips.
You can play around with this basic method: a quarter to a half-teaspoon of ground ginger, stirred in properly, spices it up more; honey instead of sugar is great, and feels more wholesome. Maple syrup instead of sugar or honey is another hit – the toddy tastes richer for it. Try a maple syrup hot toddy with your Easter chocolate, perhaps…
What doesn’t work is messing around with most other spirits. Whisky/whiskey really should be the base – I use Scottish or Irish, but you may prefer American. It’s the oak flavour that you are after. A dark rum toddy isn’t nearly as nice and don’t even think about gin. The only other spirit that creates a great toddy is brandy, and best of all the terrific armagnac of southwest France, which is fruitier than whisky but still delivers the essential heart of oak.
GREEN ISLE BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY
The Character of Islay Whisky Company, Scotland (40%, masterofmalt.com, £29.95 for 70cl)
A keenly priced blend based on Islay malt, with Speyside malt and Lowland grain whiskies. It’s wellbalanced with a honeyed hint, apple and pear aroma and light smokiness. Works a treat in a hot toddy.
GLEN MORAY FIRED OAK SPEYSIDE SINGLE MALT WHISKY
Scotland (40%, Morrisons and independent whisky shops, £34 for 70cl; masterofmalt.com, £37.84)
This single malt cranks up the oak flavour; it’s been aged for 10 years in ex-bourbon casks then finished in charred oak. The oak spice and vanilla sweetness is in check and delicious hot.
DOMAINE TARIQUET XO ARMAGNAC
Bas-Armagnac, France (40%, selected Waitrose and waitrosecellar.com, £34 for 70cl down to £28 until Tuesday)
This is a tempting offer on a fine armagnac that’s beautifully mellow and has gorgeous layers of candied peel, spiced oranges, prunes and cloves. If you’re not a fan of whisky, this could star in your hot toddy instead.