Like many origin stories, the story about where the Hot Toddy came from is open to debate. Some claim that its name comes from the Indian tadi (an alcoholic beverage made from fermented palm sap), which dates back to the 1600s. Others believe it was invented in Scotland some time in the 1700s, named after Tod’s Well, being the largest well in the area where the water was sourced. The last theory is that it was named after Irish-born physician Robert Bentley Todd who, in the mid-19th century, used to prescribe a hot drink of brandy canella (white cinnamon), sugar syrup and water to his patients as a cure-all.
Since then, the Hot Toddy has gone through many variations, but the simple mix of whiskey, lemon, honey and boiling water has become a go-to classic, especially during the cooler months. And though we don’t recommend reaching for one as a medicinal cure, a la Dr Todd, we’re all mixing one up when the temperature drops. As far as cocktails go, the Hot Toddy is as warming and soul-soothing as they come, particularly if you’re staying home on a Saturday night, so keep this recipe handy through the cooler months.
