Lately, I've been wanting to hide under the covers. I've also been mentally transporting myself to an enchanting ski chalet with a stone fireplace. It's winter in NYC and if I were Queen of the Weather, I'd order fresh powdery snow every day. It brings a special serenity to the city that's a welcome respite from the adrenaline-fueled rush of day-to-day life. Our poor adrenals need some rest.

After a snowfall, is winter any good when it's not snowing (think grey slush)? It's not and anyone that lives in the city that doesn't have to shovel snow shouldn't be complaining about the snow.

Anyway, the drink I've been sipping in my mental ski chalet is a variation of a Hot Toddy. I was thinking grapefruit would be a great twist. Not knowing if it existed, I googled and lo and behold, came across Thug Kitchen's recipe, which I've adapted. The kukicha tea, found in any health food store, lends a subtle roasted quality that compliments the brightness of the grapefruit. The bourbon/rye and spices round it out with deep, warm flavors.

Grapefruit Hot Toddy
makes one mug - no need to tell you to double/quadruple this recipe for Valentine's Day

1/2 cup of already brewed kukicha tea
juice from ½ of a grapefruit
1.5 ounces of bourbon (if you can find Tuthilltown Hudson Maple Cask Rye, we recommend it)
raw honey
grapefruit wedges for garnish
Sweet Weeger
YouTube video of a fireplace

Rim a mug with honey, using a spoon or small rubber spatula. Dab the rim in a saucer of Sweet Weeger spice.

Steep one tea bag in a cup of hot water for several minutes.

Fill a mug halfway with tea. Add bourbon, grapefruit juice, and more honey and/or Sweet Weeger to taste, if desired.

Stir, garnish, and serve.

This fire is so hypnotic... slipping... further... into... my reverie, ooooo... No, thank you, Jean-Luc, no General Foods International Coffee for me, but I'll have another hot toddy. Merci.