Had this last night. I got the mugs out of the dishwasher just after it had run its cycle. They were really hot. They stayed that way a very long time after filling from the kettle. I can see how those who like it really hot would want to preheat the cup before using. Personally, I like my cup only warm. That meant I sat all sad eyed looking at the cup for a while. The smell while I waited was really nice though.