After this year to end all years —not to mention the uncertainty of what is going to happen next year —I truly believe we could all use a drink. Of course, I mean a well-crafted cocktail.

With the end of year and colder weather approaching, I decided to find an expert for some tips on concocting warm drinks for the cold months ahead and was lucky to discover Tammy Coxen, an Ann Arbor mixologist. Not only does she teach mixology classes, she also co-hosts a show with Lester Graham called “Cheers” on NPR member station Michigan Radio. The two recently published a book based on the radio series “Cheers to Michigan: A Celebration of Cocktail Culture and Craft Distillers” (University of Michigan Press, 2019). The recipe for Coxen’s Egg Nog Flip follows. You’ll find my Maize Graze article and more recipes in the Winter 2020-21 Michigan Alumnus Magazine right here.

Coxen’s Egg Nog Flip

2 ounces spiced rum (preferably Kraken)
2 teaspoons superfine sugar
2 ounces half-and-half
1 egg
Dash of vanilla extract or bitters
Nutmeg

Combine all ingredients except the garnish in a shaker with ice. Shake hard for 15-20 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with nutmeg.

Via @michiganalumni