Robert Galloway/Tahoe Daily Tribune
This week’s Drinks segment showcases unique types of beer, wine, and cocktails to try at one of the countless breweries, bars, and restaurants around the Basin.
If hot toddy country is your winter playground, this week’s feature is for you. No. Either way, it definitely reaches the pinnacle of all warm winter cocktails.
The base spirit of this drink takes the form of El Jimador Silver Tequila infused with apples and cinnamon. Its fruit and spice dip lasts for about a week, but what really sets the tone is how well the infusion pairs with the tequila’s citrus and spice. Add juice, organic agave nectar, hot water and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of fresh lemon.
Whenever you have a slice of fruit garnish, squeeze it in regardless. Along with the spiciness of the tequila, the bright pop of lemon combined with the swirl of cinnamon sticks is evident on the nose with every sip. Citrus dominates and spice rounds out.
For me, Toddy’s two main goals are to keep me warm and to make me smile. Mission complete. That warm sensation comes in the form of a very airy, slightly sweet sip that melts to the finish. It’s not too heavy or throws you out of your lane. It’s exactly what you’d expect, but it also offers a playfulness you might not know.
If you’ve never ventured into the world of hot cocktails, jumping into a polar lake to get to know them before drinking them might be the best experience. Better yet, think about how you’ll feel after doing it. Yeah, it’s so much better than suffering under the cold grip of death in Lake Tahoe’s winter temperatures.
Azul Latin Kitchen is located at 1001 Heavenly Village Way in South Lake Tahoe. Visit azullatinkitchen.com online for food and beverage menu options and additional information. Or call us at 530-541-2985.
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