Apple Bottom Schemes is a hot take on a hot toddy created by Resa Mueller, bartender at award-winning bar R&D Philly.
When it’s cold outside, a warm cocktail can be just what you need to feel cozy and comfortable. One classic option is the Hot Toddy. This simple drink is a favorite among bartenders because there’s plenty of room to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, making each one unique. Once such take on the classic drink is the Apple Bottom Schemes; this warming drink comes from R&D Philly bartender Resa Mueller, who developed it while working at the award winning cocktail bar. Mueller states it has a delicate backbone with subtle hints of caramel and vanilla, which allow the apple and spice notes from the Calvados, apple butter, and Vigo to shine.
Tequila serves as this cocktail’s base, which is a not typical way for hot toddy’s, typically bourbon is used. However this is a hot take, and Mueller swaps bourbon for Teremana Reposado. This is premium tequila made from 100% blue weber agave and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months, resulting in a smooth and balanced flavor profile with notes of vanilla and oak. Far more apple spiced than other versions of the Hot Toddy, the Apple Bottom Schemes includes apple butter, apple brandy (Calvados) and Italian bitters ( Vigo). Together, they give the drink a deep aroma of holiday spices, that’s incredibly delicious and oh-so-comforting.
“At R&D, we love it when it’s cold enough to break out the kettle and start pouring hot cocktails…Equal parts are cozy and nostalgic, which excites me for crisp air and the smell of falling leaves!” – Resa Mueller, Bartender at R&D Philly.
Why it works?
- Apple butter adds a sweet and spicy flavor that compliments the apple and spice notes from the Calvados and Vigo.
- When used in cocktails, Calvados can add a unique apple flavor that pairs well with other fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Teremana Reposado has a subtle sweetness and complex flavor profile that can add depth and complexity to cocktails.
Step by Step
- In a tempered mug, combine Teremana Reposado, Calvados, Vigo, and apple butter.
- Add hot water and stir to combine until the apple butter is fully dissolved.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Apple Bottom Schemes
Apple Bottom Schemes is a hot take on a hot toddy created by Resa Mueller, bartender at award-winning bar R&D Philly.
- Yield: 1 1x
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz Teremana Reposado
- 0.75 oz Calvados
- 0.5 oz Vigo
- 1 Bar Spoon Apple butter
- 3 oz Hot Water
Instructions
1. In a tempered mug, combine Teremana Reposado, Calvados, Vigo, and apple butter.
2. Add hot water and stir to combine until the apple butter is fully dissolved.
3. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
If you don’t have a tempered mug, you can use any heat-resistant mug or glass. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of apple butter or hot water to taste.
