While I have no formal medical training, I can certainly attest to the sedative affect of an occasional nip of alcohol. Drinking may induce excitement, even arousal, but by the end of an evening it’s that last drink, a so-called nightcap, that lingers in my dreams until morning.

The practice of drinking a cocktail before bed likely started in the 18th century as a useful (and pleasant) means to warm the body and soul before turning in on a chilly night. It was surely predated by the equally practical and stylish sleeping attire of the same name.

Charles H. Baker’s The Gentleman’s Companion is a great place to find historic nightcap recipes. An American culinary and cocktail writer, Baker’s quixotic adventures would often end appropriately with a “capper” like the Porto Flip or a Rum Flip, opulent drinks of layered flavors and aromas meant to impress as well as to soothe.

Before you retire to your boudoir, invite your significant other to have a simple nightcap. An urbane and debonair means to capping the evening, it needn’t go further—but it will surely end with a smile on your face.

Cruzan Flip

Contributed by: Allen Katz

INGREDIENTS:

• 1.5 oz Cruzan Single Barrel Estate Rum
• .5 oz Heavy cream
• 1 tsp Sugar
• 1 Fresh egg
• Garnish: Grated nutmeg
• Glass: Cocktail or juice

PREPARATION:

Shake all the ingredients vigorously with ice and strain into a cocktail or 5-ounce juice glass. Garnish with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg.

Porto Flip

Contributed by: Allen Katz

INGREDIENTS:

• 1.75 oz Ruby port
• 1 oz Heavy cream
• 1 oz Cognac
• 1.5 tsp Fine sugar
• 1 Fresh egg
• 1 tsp Yellow Chartreuse
• Garnish: Grated nutmeg
• Glass: Cocktail or small wine

PREPARATION:

Shake all the ingredients, except the Yellow Chartreuse, vigorously with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass or small wine glass. Add 1 teaspoon of Yellow Chartreuse and top with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg.

Allen Katz is the Director of Mixology & Spirits Education for Southern Wine & Spirits of New York and one of Liquor.com’s advisors.