Here's the first drink in our Holiday cocktail series: the ultra-comforting Mesona Hot Toddy. Traditionally, this iconic winter drink is made with three primary ingredients—whiskey, honey, and lemon juice—and garnished with whole cloves and a cinnamon stick. It’s also been consumed to relieve symptoms of the cold and flu (really hoping you don't need it for that reason right now). Its medicinal properties are an obvious pairing for our Mesona (Grass Jelly Herb), most commonly known in its Grass Jelly form, but often simply steeped into a tea that's enjoyed as a as a warm tonic in the colder months. The subtle mint and herbal notes of the mesona balance well with the lemon, honey, and bourbon, boosting the soothing components in the beverage.

Mesona Hot Toddy 仙草茶酒 by Jolyn Yao, Callan Berry, and Michael Christensen

• 4 oz. hot grass jelly tea (Use our Grass Jelly Herb and follow our instructions with a 2 hour steep time)
• 2 oz. bourbon
• 1 oz. honey or simple
• ½ oz. lemon juice

Mix everything together in a mug and garnish with a clove-studded lemon slice. Don't skip the garnish—the aroma is key to the flavor.

Recipe by:  Jolyn Yao, Callan Berry, and Michael Christensen
Styling by: Off Hour Studio