Warming Spirits: A Toast to Tradition and Comfort

Distilling Dames

November 13, 2025

As the chill settles in and stories begin to flow, we gather around two timeless warm cocktails, each steeped in history, ritual, and resilience.

Chai with Rum: Spice Meets Spirit

This aromatic blend draws from masala chai, a centuries-old Indian tradition of brewing black tea with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. When paired with rum, it becomes a soulful fusion of East and West a nod to colonial trade routes and diasporic creativity.

• Origins: Chai emerged in India as a healing, communal beverage. Rum, once a staple on British naval ships, traveled from Caribbean sugar plantations to taverns across the globe.

• Flavor Profile: Bold spices, smooth rum, and a touch of honey or citrus create a drink that’s both invigorating and soothing.

• Symbolism: This cocktail honors the spice routes, the warmth of shared rituals, and the power of adaptation

The Hot Toddy: A True Cure-All

The hot toddy is a classic winter remedy, equal parts comfort and folklore. Whether prescribed by grandmothers or bartenders, it’s long been a go-to for cold nights and sore throats.

• Historical Roots: The term “toddy” may stem from the Hindi word tārī, referring to fermented palm sap. British traders adapted it, and by the 18th century, toddies were popular in Scotland, India, and colonial America.

• Traditional Ingredients: Whiskey or rum, hot water, lemon, honey, and optional spices like cloves or cinnamon.

• Cultural Legacy: Found in 19th-century recipe books and passed down through generations, the toddy is a symbol of care, resilience, and seasonal celebration.

Mixologist and Chef, Dallas Scott guest speaker for 11/13/2025: