According to an article I found in Yachting magazine, hot toddies date back to the 17th century. They’re good for parties or head colds, kind of like Brazilian quentão.
See also: The black stripe and the blue blazer.
1 orange, studded with a dozen cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1 t allspice
2 C water
1 bottle ruby port
1 C brandy
Bake the orange in the oven at 300 F for 30 minutes. In a saucepan, combine the cinnamon sticks, allspice, and water and bring to a boil. Boil until it is reduced by half.
In another saucepan, heat the port to a temperature just below boiling. Place the orange into a large, heated punchbowl, then add the reduction, port, and brandy. Best served in heated mugs.