How To: Make a Soothing Hot Toddy Drink with Bourbon

After a stressful day, there's nothing more relaxing than a smooth glass of straight, room temperature whiskey to help unwind. On hot days, popping a few rocks in does the trick. And on cold days, hot toddies are truly amazing.

If you've ever had a hot toddy, chances are you were feeling under the weather. Hot toddies are believed to help alleviate cold and flu symptoms—they were even once thought to prevent influenza. But truth be told, there is no medical evidence to support that these hot whiskey drinks work as home-brew remedies for such ailments.

If you're in the mood for a hot toddy this holiday season, here are a few simple and tasty recipes. My bourbon of choice is Wild Turkey.

Bourbon Toddy Recipe #1

• Wild Turkey bourbon whiskey (2 ounces)
• Lemon half, juiced (about 2 ounces)
• Water (2-4 ounces; optional)
• Honey (1 tablespoon)

In a mug or tumbler, heat up the bourbon, lemon juice and water (if any) in the microwave for about 45 seconds. You can also use a small pan or pot on the stove if you want. Next, add the honey. Whisk to combine, then microwave (or continuing heating on the stove) for another 45 seconds.

It's that easy.

If that's too much for you, here's a much simpler recipe...

Bourbon Toddy Recipe #2

• Wild Turkey bourbon whiskey (1½ ounces)
• Water (2 ounces)
• Sugar cube (1)
• Lemon slice (1)
• Nutmeg

Heat up some hot water in a mug or tumbler, then add the sugar cube and stir to dissolve. Add bourbon, stir, then garnish with lemon and grate some fresh nutmeg over the top.

Yet another one...

Bourbon Toddy Recipe #3

• Bourbon whisky (¼ cup)
• Honey (¼ cup)
• Lemon juice (¼ cup)
• Water (3 tablespoons)

This time, just throw the bourbon, honey and water in a mug or tumbler, then heat in the microwave until right after it starts to bubble. Take it out and add the lemon. If you want, you can even add a couple cloves or a cinnamon stick for extra taste. If the bourbon is too strong, try adding a tea bag to the mix to offset the taste.