Quick-Sloe Toddy

Homemade sloe gin has been an autumnal tradition in much of the UK since the seventeenth century. Given that it takes at least two months for the tart and astringent berries to produce the rich ruby red liqueur, drinking it is also somewhat of a Christmas tradition as well (although if you're patient enough it will only get better with age).

My aunt and uncle forage sloes every year from the lanes and hedgerows near their home in Cambridgeshire, but if you don't have access to the homemade variety, a number of commercial products (such as Hayman's, Sacred or Gentleman Badger's) are readily available.

The classic Christmas sloe gin drink is either neat over ice, or in a glass of fizz, but it is also an excellent addition to a warm drink like our Quick-Sloe Toddy.

Quick-Sloe Toddy

(per drink)
35ml sloe gin
1 tsp honey
1 tsp vanilla sugar
hot water
4 cloves
1 star anise
orange slice

Combine all ingredients in a mug or heatproof glass and stir until the honey is dissolved.

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