Scotch whisky can make a delicious and warming hot toddy, but it’s not necessarily the best choice of spirit for this classic hot drink. In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of using Scotch in hot toddies, and explore some alternative options.
What is a hot toddy?
A hot toddy is a traditional hot drink consisting of liquor, honey or sugar, and boiling water. Spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise are often added for extra flavor. The toddy is usually served in a mug or heat-proof glass.
Hot toddies are consumed to help soothe cold and flu symptoms, or just to warm up on cold winter nights. The honey, spices, and hot temperature are soothing for sore throats, while the alcohol can help you relax and sleep.
Is Scotch a good option for hot toddies?
Scotch whisky, especially smoky single malts, can make a delicious hot toddy. The peaty, earthy flavors pair well with honey and spices. Scotch also gives the drink a nice alcoholic kick.
However, there are a few reasons why Scotch may not be the optimal choice:
- Scotch can overpower more delicate spices and honey flavors in a hot toddy.
- Good Scotch can be expensive to use in hot drinks, when the subtle flavors will be partly lost.
- The high alcohol content of Scotch (usually 40-46%) makes it easy to accidentally make the drink too strong.
- The peat smoke flavors may be overpowering and harsh when consumed hot.
With care, a nice blended Scotch or mild Speyside single malt like Glenlivet can work well. But many experts recommend lower alcohol, less expensive spirits for the ideal hot toddy.
Better alternatives to Scotch for hot toddies
Here are some popular alternative liquors to use:
Brandy
Brandy is probably the most traditional liquor used in hot toddies, prized for its gentle warmth and fruity flavors. Cognac or other aged brandy around 40% alcohol provides an excellent base.
Bourbon
Bourbon like Jim Beam or Maker’s Mark makes a delicious hot toddy base. The vanilla and oak flavors complement the honey and spices, without being overpowering.
Rye whiskey
The spicy, bold flavor of rye whiskey is perfect for cutting through the sweetness of a hot toddy. Try moderately-priced rye like Old Overholt.
Irish whiskey
Smooth blended Irish whiskeys like Jameson or Bushmills work very well in hot toddies. Their lighter texture and approachable flavors are ideal.
Rum
Dark rums add nice molasses sweetness to toddies without overwhelming the other ingredients. Appleton Estate or Gosling’s Black Seal are good mixable rums.
How to make a hot toddy
Here is a simple hot toddy recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60ml) liquor like brandy or bourbon
- 1 tsp honey, maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- Lemon wedge
- 1-2 cloves, cinnamon stick or star anise (optional)
Instructions:
- Add honey and spices (if using) to a heatproof mug or glass.
- Pour in the boiling water and stir to dissolve the honey.
- Add the liquor and stir again.
- Squeeze lemon wedge over toddy and add it to the drink.
- Enjoy immediately while hot.
For extra soothing properties, use lemon and honey to taste. You can also experiment with different spices like ginger, nutmeg or allspice.
Health benefits of hot toddies
Hot toddies can do more than just warm you up on a cold winter’s day. Research suggests the ingredients may have some health benefits:
Honey
Honey has long been used to soothe sore throats and coughs. Studies confirm it can relieve nighttime coughing and improve sleep quality for children with upper respiratory infections.
Lemon
Lemons contain vitamin C which supports immune system health. Lemon juice also has anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve respiratory symptoms.
Spices
Soothing spices like cinnamon, ginger and clove have antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections. Breathing in their vapors can help loosen congestion.
Alcohol
In moderation, alcohol has known medicinal effects like reducing inflammation. It can also help you relax and sleep when you’re feeling under the weather.
So while hot toddies should be consumed sensibly, combining traditional remedies like honey and lemon with alcohol might help relieve cold and flu misery.
Health risks of hot toddies
While hot toddies can be soothing in moderation, consuming too many carries some risks:
- Alcohol can interact with over-the-counter and prescription medications, including cold remedies.
- Toddies should be avoided by anyone taking sedatives or sleep aids, as alcohol has additive effects.
- Consuming alcohol while sick increases dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol if severely ill.
- The hot temperature can burn your mouth if consumed too quickly.
- Impaired judgment under the influence of alcohol may lead to risky behavior and accidents.
- Pregnant women should avoid alcohol to protect their baby’s health.
To keep hot toddies safe as well as soothing, consume in moderation. Don’t drink more than 1-2 per day when sick. Toddies are also not recommended as a cold or flu remedy for young children, pregnant women or anyone on medication.
Other hot drinks for colds and flu
If you’d prefer to avoid alcohol, here are some alternative hot drinks to help relieve cold and flu symptoms:
Tea
Soothing teas like chamomile, peppermint and ginger can ease congestion and upset stomachs. The steam inhalation can also help clear sinuses.
Broths
Warm broths keep you hydrated and provide minerals like magnesium and calcium to support healing. Chicken or vegetable broth make great alternatives when sick.
Decaffeinated coffee
The warmth, aroma and soothing properties of decaf coffee can help you feel better. Avoid caffeine though as it can worsen headaches.
Hot apple cider
Warm, unsweetened apple cider with added lemon, honey and cinnamon can help ease cold symptoms. It provides vitamin C without the alcohol.
Conclusion
Scotch can make a delicious comforting hot toddy when you have a cold. However, lower alcohol spirits like brandy or bourbon are often better choices. Their gentler flavors won’t overpower the honey and spices. Scotch also has a high alcohol content for serving hot. Overall, hot toddies can definitely relieve flu misery but should be consumed in moderation.