Black Tea Hot Toddy

Opinions differ about the origin of the name "toddy." Some believe the name derives from Indian languages—Hindu, Marathi and even Sanskrit—because of its roots in the then Britain-controlled subcontinent. Others believe in a Scottish toddy enthusiast named "Tod."

Whatever its origins—and, really, no one knows with any certainty—it's widely agreed that Hot Toddies are warming wintertime drinks that people often sip as a remedy for colds and coughs. At other times, of course, toddy enthusiasts simply drink it because it's a pleasingly sweet and aromatic wintertime drink. 

The cocktail can be prepared with hot water, apple cider, or with tea, which imparts an added flavor and aids in lessening the symptoms and duration of the common cold. While there's no medical evidence for this, the Hot Toddy is at least pleasant to sip when nothing else seems to be working.