10 of the Best Whiskies to Use in a Hot Toddy

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updated Nov 05, 2019

There's nothing quite like cozying up to a hot toddy when the weather is brisk and the whiskey is calling. A fairly simple cocktail to make, the classic hot toddy is made using whiskey, honey and lemon juice, and is usually garnished with a cinnamon stick. Although simple, a great whiskey can really elevate the taste of a hot toddy, From bourbons to ryes, just about any whiskey can work in a hot toddy due to the foolproof selection of ingredients. Just be sure to stick with a whiskey that you personally enjoy.

If you're at a loss on what whiskies to consider in your next hot toddy, the spirits ahead are a worthy selection, perfect for use in this boozy favorite.

01 of 10

Maker's Mark Bourbon Whiskey

Maker's Mark Bourbon Whiskey $22

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Crafted in Loretto, Kentucky, Maker's Mark prides itself on the care that goes into making its award-winning whiskey. For a flavorful hot toddy, splash an ounce or two of this whiskey into your drink for welcome, but subtle tastes of caramel, vanilla and oak.

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Stranahan’s Sherry Cask

Stranahan’s Sherry Cask $80

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With this rare sip from Denver-based Stranahan's, their four-year-old Rocky Mountain Single Malt is placed in Oloroso Sherry Barrels to give it a cask finish. This distinct process creates a whiskey that flaunts notes of ripe cherries, sweet apples, raisins and almonds. A unique selection for your next hot toddy, Stranahan’s Sherry Cask will add hints of honey, fig, brown sugar and other rich flavors.

03 of 10

Jack Daniel's Tennessee Apple

Bottle of apple-flavored whiskey with green labeling.

Jack Daniel's Tennessee Apple $29

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A new flavored offering from whiskey powerhouse Jack Daniel's, Jack Daniel's Tennessee Apple is a blend of green apple liqueur and Old No. 7 whiskey. Tennessee Apple is a great pick for those who prefer to indulge in a hot toddy that boasts an added layer of decadence and fruit-filled flair.

04 of 10

SoNo 1420 Hemped Rye

Square-shaped bottle of rye whiskey with cork top.

SoNo 1420 Hemped Rye $40

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Born from the distillery that could be the first ever to incorporate hemp seed into a whiskey mash bill, SoNo 1420 Hemped Rye is comprised of 75% rye, 15% corn and 10% milled hemp seed.

Opt for this full-flavored whiskey for a hot toddy that borders on peppery.

05 of 10

Laphroaig Select Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Bottle of Scotch whisky next to a bottle container.

Laphroaig Select Single Malt Scotch Whisky $42.00

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There's nothing quite as warming as a hot toddy paired with a modest helping of Scotch whisky. One such whisky to consider for a hot toddy is Laphroaig Select Single Malt Scotch Whisky. A level of smokiness does exist with this particular whisky, but is graciously balanced out by notes of lemon, green apples and even mint.

06 of 10

Crown Royal Vanilla

Crown Royal Vanilla $27

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Serving as another flavored offering, Crown Royal Vanilla lacks the artificial sweetness present in some flavored spirits. The Canadian-based brand obtains this balance by infusing its whisky with Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla. The end result is a whisky that can add an inviting layer of vanilla to your hot toddy.

07 of 10

Bulleit Bourbon

Bulleit Bourbon $32

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With a dedication to using only the highest quality ingredients, Bulleit Bourbon is a carefully crafted spirit that works well in hot toddies and other simple or craft cocktails. From its mild spiciness to a finish that is effortlessly smooth, Bulleit Bourbon is a whiskey that's truly exciting from beginning to end.

08 of 10

Four Roses Single Barrel

Bottle of whiskey with tag attached to bottle neck.

Four Roses Single Barrel $35

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With over 10 handcrafted bourbons, the only dilemma with Four Roses is choosing which bourbon to use for your hot toddy. Although they all serve as worthy options, Four Roses Single Barrel is ideal for a hot toddy thanks to its notes of ripe plum and cherries.

09 of 10

Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey

Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey $60

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A truly special whiskey, Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey was created to pay homage to Nathan "Nearest" Green. Many whiskey aficionados and history buffs know Green as the first African American master distiller. In addition to the storied history attached to each bottle of Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey, the taste of the spirit is indicative of maple and dried fruit, making it a solid bet for a hot toddy.

10 of 10

Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey

Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey $37

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Given that Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey is a whiskey that is crafted from 51% malt, the spirit is noticeably rich in flavor. In addition to dark chocolate, caramel and nuts, Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey is also reminiscent of apple, fig and dates in taste.