Toddy Mug

The toddy mug as a dedicated cocktail vessel is closely tied to the history of Irish Coffee, which was invented by chef Joe Sheridan at the Foynes Airport in County Limerick, Ireland in 1943. When a transatlantic flight was forced to turn back due to bad weather, Sheridan warmed the stranded passengers with a mixture of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a float of lightly whipped cream. The drink arrived in the United States in 1952 when San Francisco Chronicle travel writer Stanton Delaplane worked with Buena Vista Café owner Jack Koeppler to recreate the recipe — a collaboration that eventually brought Sheridan himself to San Francisco. The footed, handled glass mug used to serve Irish Coffee became the standard vessel for all hot cocktails that required retaining heat, displaying layers, and staying comfortable to hold. Its clear glass body allows the cream-and-coffee layering to be seen, while the heat-resistant construction and handle protect the drinker from scalding. Today the same format serves Hot Toddies, mulled wine, hot buttered rum, and any other warm cocktail that benefits from an elegant, purpose-built vessel.