Scottish Hot Toddy: Warm Whisky, Honey and Lemon Nightcap for Cool Autumn Evenings

Warm a heatproof glass mug by filling it with hot water for a minute, then pour it out.

Serves 1

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces Scotch whisky
• 1 tablespoon honey (heather honey if you can find it)
• 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 4 ounces just-boiled water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 lemon wheel
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Warm a heatproof glass mug by filling it with hot water for a minute, then pour it out.
2. Stud the lemon wheel with the cloves.
3. Add the honey and lemon juice to the mug.
4. Pour in the just-boiled water and stir until the honey dissolves.
5. Stir in the whisky, then taste and adjust with a little more honey or lemon.
6. Garnish with the clove-studded lemon wheel and cinnamon stick, and finish with a pinch of nutmeg.
7. Sip slowly while hot.
8. The hot toddy has been a Scottish fireside ritual since the 18th century, when whisky, hot water and sugar were mixed to soften harsh spirits through the damp Highland winters. It remains the classic cozy nightcap once the first chilly autumn evenings arrive.

Nutrition (estimated, per serving)

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 5mg