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Host a Winter Party With the Perfect DIY Hot Toddy Bar

September 02, 2015

By: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Keep holiday party guests warm and in good spirits with a simple spot dedicated to mixing cold-weather concoctions.

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Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Mix Up the Perfect Cool-Weather Drink

This colorful and inviting wrap-around porch is the perfect spot to welcome guests for holiday soirees. Upon arrival, invite guests to mix up their own hot toddy to help beat the cold and enjoy the festivities. Get this quick and easy hot toddy recipe.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Ingredients in Stock

Stocking your hot toddy station with the proper tools and ingredients is key. Dedicate one shelf to an assortment of liquor, bitters and garnishes.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Hot Water on Hand

If your hot toddy station isn’t located near a sink or wet bar, keep hot water on hand in a vintage thermos.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Mix of Bourbon

If you’re hosting a large gathering, be sure to have two or three bourbon options available, as liquor tastes tend to be very specific.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Artisanal Whiskey

Hot toddies can be made with whiskey bourbon or straight-up whiskey. Offer both options for guests to make sure everyone can create a concoction to their liking. For a unique touch, provide local, artisanal whiskey.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Assorted Brandy

In the event that guests prefer brandy instead, keep a bottle of brandy on hand. Brandy and rum are alternatives to whiskey that work well with traditional hot toddy ingredients.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Variety of Bitters

Aromatic bitters are a key ingredient in hot toddies. Allow guests to customize their own creation even more by supplying the bar with an assortment of flavored bitters, like orange, peach and lemon.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Fresh Lemons

Keep fresh lemons within arm’s reach and stylishly contained in a glass container.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Local Honey

It’s no secret that honey can get messy. To help control the sticky drips, use a low glass container filled with honey, and be sure to add a small spoon that won’t allow too much to spill.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Sugar Jar

Add texture and brightness to your hot toddy bar by filling a large jar with sugar. Fill the jar with twice as much sugar as you anticipate needing, just to be safe.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Sweet Sugar Spoon

To add sugar to their drinks, guests will need a spoon that’s long enough not to sink to the bottom of the apothecary jar. Add in a vintage silver or brass spoon for a touch of charm.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Rosemary Garnishes

Fresh rosemary sprigs are a beautiful garnish for hot toddies. Keep them displayed in a tall, glass vessel so guests can easily pull the sprigs apart and finish their drinks.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Clear Mugs

Make mixing simple for your guests by providing them with clear glass mugs. This will allow them to see the ingredients as they’re added and adjust as needed until their drinks are perfect.

Holiday Drink Bar

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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DIY Decor

Handmade holiday decor adds a touch of festive cheer to your DIY bar.

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