1 part dark spirit (whiskey or brandy)
3 parts boiling water
Honey and lemon to taste
Optionally, add cinnamon or cloves

Also consider: infusing the liquor with apples: http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/honey-bourbon-toddy#recipe-ingr... (or subbing in Calvados). Take it a step further with mint and absinthe: http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/castle-dip