Scotch Toddy

Serves 4

Process

A hot cocktail may be as simple as your favorite spirit extended with a splash of water from the tea kettle. That said, there are a few simple procedures and tips to keep in mind:

• Heat the mug or glass first. Fill it with hot water and empty the water just before assembling the cocktail.

• Don't heat the spirit directly. Its alcohol will volatilize readily and its flavor will change.

• Let the fumes blow off. Even a splash of hot water will cause the alcohol to release a cloud of potent fumes. You may wish to wait a few seconds before bringing it under your nose.

• Use brown liquors. Dark rum, bourbon, scotch, brandy – all good. Hot vodka? Not so much.

• Find mixers that are tannic. The compounds known as tannins create a drying, gripping feeling on your palate and add depth to a hot beverage. Tea, coffee, red wine and pomegranate juice are all highly tannic.

• Prepare honey water. Equal measures of honey and water, heated until blended and then cooled, will stay pourable at room temperature and dissolve readily in a cocktail. Agave nectar also works well.