This golden-hued turmeric hot toddy from Claire Sprouse of Brooklyn’s Hunky Dory is wonderfully savory from the combination of nutty Amontillado sherry and earthy turmeric. Sprouse invites guests to pick their own spirit—the drink is surprisingly versatile—but we particularly like this formula with bourbon, which shares a certain warmth with the sherry.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 1 cocktail

　　

Turmeric Syrup

¼ cup granulated sugar

　　¾ tsp. ground turmeric

　　

Hot Toddy

1 ½ oz. Amontillado sherry

　　1 oz. bourbon, aged rum, Scotch, mezcal, or gin

　　1 oz. Turmeric Syrup

　　½ oz. fresh lemon juice

　　Garnish: Dehydrated lemon wheel (optional)

　　

Step 1

For the turmeric syrup, combine ½ cup hot water and ¼ cup sugar in a liquid measuring cup or mason jar. Add ¾ tsp. ground turmeric and stir—or seal and shake—until sugar is completely dissolved. (This makes enough syrup for 4 drinks. Syrup can be used immediately or refrigerated, covered, up to 10 days. Shake or stir before using to reincorporate turmeric.)

　　

Step 2

For the toddy, combine 1 ½ oz. Amontillado sherry, 1 oz. bourbon (or other spirit of choice), 1 oz. Turmeric Syrup, and ½ oz. fresh lemon juice in a sturdy pint glass or 16-ounce thermos. Top with 8 oz. hot water and stir gently. Garnish with dehydrated lemon wheel if desired.