It's Gin, but Without the Hangover. For Your Christmas Parties Meet Clean G!

OK, so it's cocktail time for your next Christmas or New Year party, you have the vodkas, the Scotch, the bottled IPAs that Uncle Kevin loves... but what about those not drinking alcohol? 

For example the total abstainers? Cousin Sue who is pregnant with twins? What are they supposed to drink? That dreadful sugar-free diet orange squash that always puts a film on your teeth? Maybe a tonic without the gin? Canned pre-mixed drinks that look radioactive in the glass?

Not anymore! Because now, everyone can spend an absolutely delightful Christmas and New Year enjoying cocktails and straight drinks without getting sick, hungover or risking a driving ban. How? Meet CleanCo!

CleanCo was founded in 2019 by Spencer Matthews a TV personality, entrepreneur and podcaster. Spencer decided that he didn't want to drink alcohol any more but was irritated that the alcohol free choices available to him where soft drinks, water or mocktails that really were not that enjoyable.

So like many inventive people before him, when Spencer realised that as there weren't any suitable alternatives he would set out to create them. And after much research, experimentation, blending and testing CleanCo was founded.

But CleanCo state very firmly that the company is not anti-alcohol in any way. They are just pro-choice and pro the idea of being able to enjoy several G&Ts after your evening meal or after the Christmas feasting without waking up with a hangover and a thumping headache!

So, what's available for your Christmas drinks table?

CleanG which is a very tasty dry gin which has delicious notes of juniper, citrus fruits and herbal essences. My wife described this as an exceptionally clean gin-style drink that had definite digestion calming effects. "Don't forget, gin was originally sold as a medicine for stomach ailments," she told me.

There's also CleanG Rhubarb, a rhubarb flavoured version. 

CleanR is a delightful spiced rum, crafted to have a comparable mouthfeel an flavour to rum with alcohol, it's excellent for making perfect recreations of your rum cocktails but with no nasty hangovers!

CleanT is an alcohol-free Tequila, which has all of the Tequila taste with none of the after-effects when blended to make lovely acohol-free cocktails.

CleanW is an alcohol-free whiskey which has bold oakwood, orange, and vanilla notes with a smooth and spicy finish. Ideal with a splash of tonic water or in a whiskey cocktail.

CleanV is a vodka with the alcohol. Carefully blended to replicate the taste and mouthfeel of vodka, it has a crisp wheat and rye spirit with a peppery and spicy finish. Ideal for those hangover-free cocktails on Christmas morning!

After tasting her first glass of CleanG my wife expressed her opinion that she thought it would be about £45 a bottle. 

She was suitable impressed when she discovered that each 75cl bottle actually retails at £16.00 a bottle, as do all the other drinks in their range. And you can save money by signing up for a subscription, too, with a 10% discount.

But you can also buy CleanCo products as part of your regular shopping runs including Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsburys, ASDA, Morrisons and Ocado, as well as a range of independent bottle shops.  

Also check out bars, restaurants and experiential venues across the country too. Find the full list here https://clean.co/pages/store-locations

https://clean.co

You'll also find a fantastic range of cocktails here https://clean.co/blogs/clean-cocktails

Play in CHOC is the ideal chocolate gift for Christmas

It can be really hard to find chocolate that is inclusive for all children and adults who different dietary requirements.

Rather than waste time trying to sort out different types of chocolate for different dietary requirements for all of the people you are buying for, all you need do is to ensure that you source all your chocolates for Christmas from Play in Choc.

Why are we suggesting this? Because Play in CHOC have carefully and lovingly crafted some of the smoothest, most delicious chocolates we have ever tasted.

Their chocolate is guaranteed free from the top 14 allergens and uses only three plant ingredients using cacao, coconut and vanilla. 

They are 100% vegan, fully dairy-free & 100% organic, so everyone can enjoy great-tasting, award-winning chocolate which is 14 allergen free without even a hint of guilt.

But there's much, much more than that, because Play in CHOC combines their delicious chocolate with some absolutely amazing toys!

You can combine the excitement of playing & eating chocolate with their ToyChoc Boxes. Enjoy delicious dairy-free & allergy-free organic chocolate with a collectable 3D cardboard animal puzzle toy to assemble and a fun facts card. 

Their toys include endangered animals, dinosaurs, woodland animals,  rabbits & Christmas characters. Play, learn & eat delicious chocolate at the same time.

There are also chocolates, Pic Gift Sets and Gift Cards, too.

Let us remove the stress of finding the perfect chocolate by simply browsing through their stunning chocolate collections!

And they claim with justifiable pride to be fully sustainable. 

https://playinchoc.com/

Doggedly looking for Canine Christmas Gifts? Pointer Christmas Gift Guide Shows You the Way

If you’re looking for the perfect dog friendly gift this Christmas, then look no further than Pointer – a British-based dog treat company with a range of tasty festive snacks on the menu this year.   

Born in South Yorkshire in the 1950s, Pointer is now based in the heart of Lincolnshire and stocked across the whole of the UK. 

As a leading biscuiteer, they still bake their treats in their family-run farm bakery, using ingredients harvested from their very own fields.

Their products are created by a family of dog lovers, for the well-loved dogs in your family. 

From advent calendars to crackers, share some Christmas spirit The Pointer Way this year. Their festive range includes: 

Pointer Dog Advent Calendar- can't wait till the big day? Give your dog a daily taste of Christmas from December 1st! Filled with crunchy carob and cheese flavoured bones, this Countdown Calendar is the perfect way to include your dog in the festive excitement.  

Pointer Christmas Cracker- Stuffed with crunchy turkey and cranberry flavoured shapes, don’t let your furry friend miss out on all of the Christmas cracker fun!  

Pointer Christmas Selection- Want to spoil your dog this festive season? Well Pointer’s 10kg box of Turkey & Cranberry flavoured biscuits is the perfect way to stay stocked up with festive treats! 

Made with real turkey and oven-baked to perfection – it’ll be hard to resist woofing these down. 

Pointer Christmas Hamper- can't decide? Fill your pup’s stocking with a paw-fect selection of an advent calendar, Christmas cracker, hand iced bone, and a card from the Pointer family! 

https://www.pointerpetfoods.co.uk

Welcome to a Winter Wonderland! Revealing the 2025 Bonne Maman Advent Calendar

It’s time to take a magical walk in an enchanted forest with this year’s exclusive limited edition Bonne Maman Advent Calendar. 

Cheerful little festive characters and adorable cheeky animals will help you discover 23 mini jars of delicious seasonal conserves, chocolates and caramels, plus a surprise decorative gift on Christmas Eve.  

A perfect gift to treat loved ones, or yourself!, every Advent Calendar purchased from the Bonne Maman website will also receive a complimentary special edition Christmas jar of Hazelnut Chocolate Spread, embellished with an evocative, winter wonderland design. 

A truly lovable, exclusive item for 2025, that makes a sweet home accessory after use. Simply pop in a string of twinkling lights or battery tea light for a pretty, personalised decoration for years to come.   

In the advent calendar, you, or the fortunate recipient, will discover mini jars of special conserves, chocolate spreads and caramels, to enjoy a different taste sensation for breakfast every day of Advent. 

Many flavour combinations have been developed exclusively for this Christmas and not usually available in the UK, such as Orange, guava and lime, Madagascar vanilla caramel, Mango and ginger, or Blueberry and lychee with rose. 

As an extra treat behind the final door, on Christmas Eve, discover a pretty, decorative surprise gift – just in time for Christmas day itself!

A delicious way to spread the festive joy this Christmas season, the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is available to order from mid-August online at https://www.bonnemaman.co.uk/advent at £33.00 including postage and packing. 

The Bonne Maman Advent calendar will also be available from retailers such as Waitrose & Partners, Selfridges and Fenwicks.                                                

For further information, tips and recipes visit www.bonnemaman.co.uk, like on Facebook @BonneMamanUK and follow on Instagram @bonnemaman_uk. Stockists may vary. 

Where to Buy Diabetic-Friendly Christmas Puddings and Treats in the UK

One of the best parts of Christmas is gathering round the table for pudding. But if you’re catering for guests with diabetes, the traditional sugar-heavy options aren’t always suitable. 

Luckily, the UK has plenty of alternatives – from ready-made puddings to DIY kits and mixes – so no one has to miss out on the magic of a festive dessert.

Here’s a guide to some of the best places to shop for diabetic-friendly Christmas puddings and other low-sugar treats this year.

Diabetic Hampers UK – Ready-Made & Delivered

If convenience is your priority, Diabetic Hampers UK is a fantastic place to start. They stock reduced-sugar Christmas puddings and beautifully presented hampers packed with diabetic-friendly goodies. You can even choose your delivery date, making it a reliable choice if you’re planning ahead for the big day.

Perfect for: hassle-free gifting or ensuring there’s a pudding on the table without extra work. https://www.diabetichampers.co.uk

Plum Duff & Stuff – A DIY Pudding Kit for Diabetics

Want to keep a traditional feel while still looking after sugar levels? The Plum Duff & Stuff Christmas pudding kit is a brilliant option. It comes with all the dry ingredients measured out – dried fruits, wholemeal flour, seeds, spices, and stevia for sweetening – plus a ceramic basin and wrapping. All you need to add are fresh fruit zest, juice, and eggs.

Perfect for: bakers who love a “make it yourself” pudding with a festive ritual.

No-Added-Sugar Christmas Pudding

If you’re looking for a pudding that gets its sweetness naturally, keep an eye out for no-added-sugar puddings. These are usually made with dried fruits like dates, apples, and prunes, delivering a lovely richness without refined sugar. They’re often stocked by specialist retailers like Diabetic Hampers UK and seasonal online shops.

Perfect for: guests who prefer a more natural sweetness.

https://www.plumduffandstuff.co.uk

LillyPuds – Reduced-Sugar & Vegan Options

LillyPuds is a small British producer offering luxurious puddings that don’t overload on sugar. Their Reduced-Sugar Christmas Pudding has over 50% fruit and no artificial sweeteners, while their vegan and gluten-free option is also lower in sugar (around 5%). Both taste indulgent while catering for a wide range of dietary needs.

Perfect for: guests who need vegan, gluten-free, or reduced-sugar puddings that still feel special.

A Quick Homemade Fix – Low-Carb Recipes

For those who like a hands-on approach, there are excellent low-carb, sugar-free recipes online. For example, Sugar Free Londoner has a microwave-friendly pudding that takes just 10 minutes to make. It uses almond flour, erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, eggs, spices, and a little fruit for flavour. The result is a festive, portion-controlled pudding with only about 8g net carbs per serving.

Perfect for: last-minute bakers who still want a homemade touch.

https://www.lillypuds.co.uk

Sugar-Free Baking Mixes

If pudding isn’t your thing, you could offer another festive bake made from sugar-free baking mixes.

The Skinny Food Co has brownie and sponge cake mixes

Betty Crocker produces sugar-free cake and cookie mixes in the UK.

Bulk™ Protein Brownie Mix is low-sugar and high in protein, offering a filling alternative.

Perfect for: adding variety to the dessert table with minimal effort.

Extra Sugar-Free Festive Treats

Don’t forget about those extra nibbles to go with coffee and tea. Shops like Healthy Supplies stock sugar-free delights such as Turkish delight, Viennese biscuits, coconut wafers, and even sparkling cranberry drinks. These little touches can make diabetic guests feel thought of when the selection box comes out.

Perfect for: stocking fillers, snacking, or a “sweet plate” at the end of the meal.

Supermarkets – Check Labels Carefully

Mainstream supermarkets do carry free-from puddings (for example, Tesco Finest Free-From Christmas Pudding). However, most of these are gluten-free rather than sugar-free, and often still contain a lot of sugar. They’re useful for those with coeliac disease, but not ideal for managing blood glucose.

Perfect for: gluten-free diets, but not suitable as a true diabetic-friendly option.

Sweet Traditions, Thoughtful Choices

From ready-made reduced-sugar puddings to DIY kits, quick recipes, and sugar-free treats, there’s a wealth of ways to make sure diabetic guests feel fully included in the festive spread. Whether you order from a specialist site like Diabetic Hampers UK, treat your guests to a LillyPuds showstopper, or bake your own with a sugar-free mix, there’s no shortage of options.

After all, Christmas pudding should be about sharing memories – not worrying about sugar.

A Sweet Christmas Without the Sugar: Catering for Diabetic Guests

Christmas is a time for indulgence the mince pies, Christmas pudding, chocolates, and festive cocktails all seem to take centre stage. 

But if you’re welcoming friends or family with diabetes, you may be wondering how best to cater for them without leaving them out of the seasonal fun. 

The good news? With today’s wide range of zero sugar alternatives, syrups and flavourings, you can create festive treats that are both delicious and diabetic-friendly.

Why Think About Zero Sugar Options?

Traditional festive foods are often packed with refined sugar, which can cause blood glucose levels to spike. For those living with diabetes, this makes navigating the Christmas table tricky. 

By making simple swaps with sugar-free ingredients and naturally sweet alternatives, you can help ensure that everyone enjoys the celebrations without worry.

Sweet Swaps: Baking and Desserts

Zero sugar syrups – Brands now offer syrups in flavours such as vanilla, caramel, hazelnut and even festive gingerbread. Perfect for drizzling over pancakes, flavouring coffee, or adding to whipped cream.

Sugar-free chocolate – A great option for stocking fillers or to melt into sauces.

Sugar substitutes for baking – Stevia, erythritol and monk fruit sweetener can be used in Christmas puddings, cakes and biscuits without compromising taste. (However, people like my wife are allergic to Stevia)

Drinks Without the Sugar Crash

Christmas drinks are often loaded with sugar – from mulled wine to hot chocolate. Try these alternatives:

Sugar-free hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of zero sugar syrup.

Mulled spice tea – brew black tea with cinnamon, cloves and orange peel, then sweeten with a sugar substitute.

Festive mocktails – mix sparkling water with sugar-free syrups, a splash of lemon or lime, and fresh fruit garnish for a seasonal fizz.

Savoury Options That Shine

It’s not all about sweet treats. Luckily, most of the Christmas dinner spread is already diabetic-friendly: roast turkey, Brussels sprouts, red cabbage, carrots, and parsnips. Just be mindful of glazes and sauces – opt for reduced-sugar cranberry sauce or make your own using a sugar substitute.

Little Touches That Make a Big Difference

Label dishes so guests know what’s sugar-free.

Offer choice – a traditional pudding alongside a zero-sugar trifle or cheesecake ensures everyone has something special.

Stock your coffee corner with sugar-free syrups so guests can customise their festive lattes.

A Christmas Everyone Can Enjoy

With a little planning and the help of zero sugar syrups and flavourings, you can make your diabetic guests feel not just included, but spoiled with thoughtful festive treats. After all, Christmas is about togetherness, and that means ensuring everyone can join in the feast.

Here are some excellent zero-sugar syrup options available in the UK, perfect for making your Christmas festivities more inclusive for guests managing diabetes.

Festive classic — Christmas maple & spice

Maple & Cinnamon Syrup - Skinny Syrup - 425ml

£4.99

theskinnyfoodco

Gingerbread festive flavour

Mint Syrup | Mint Syrup For Coffee | Skinny Syrups

£6.99

theskinnyfoodco

Nutty barista‑style syrup

Mint Syrup | Mint Syrup For Coffee | Skinny Syrups

£6.99

theskinnyfoodco

Versatile vanilla for coffee, drinks

Monin Sugar Free Vanilla Flavouring Syrup (1 litre)

£9.49

Maple & Cinnamon Syrup - Skinny Syrup - 425ml

A delightfully festive blend of maple and warm spices — ideal for drizzling over porridge, cakes, or into hot beverages without any calories or sugar. A classic seasonal touch.

Mint Syrup | Mint Syrup For Coffee | Skinny Syrups

Rich hints of gingerbread with cinnamon, cloves and molasses make this perfect for spicing up hot chocolate, coffee, or desserts with winter warmth — all sugar-free.

Mint Syrup | Mint Syrup For Coffee | Skinny Syrups

A creamy, nutty favourite for flavouring latte, hot chocolate or even breakfast bowls. Totally sugar-free and delicious.

Monin Sugar Free Vanilla Flavouring Syrup (1 litre)

A versatile vanilla syrup, perfect for lattes, cocktails, baking or mocktails. Made with sucralose, delivering rich flavour without the sugar.

Other Notable UK-Friendly Options

The Skinny Food Co is a notable British brand offering a wide range of zero-calorie, sugar-free syrups. They're stocked in major supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Lidl, and health stores such as Holland & Barrett. 

Wikipedia

NextDayCoffee.co.uk features sugar-free syrups from Amor, Monin, and Simply, including festive picks like:

Monin Gingerbread Sugar-Free Syrup

Monin Vanilla Sugar-Free Syrup

Amor Caramel / Hazelnut / Vanilla Sugar-Free Syrups — all priced around £4.99 for 750 ml 

Nextday Coffee

Bulk™ Zero Calorie Syrup is another UK-available option sweetened with sucralose, offering calorie-free choices in flavours like maple and butterscotch. 

Community recommendations include:

“I quite like the Skinny Syrup ones. I find that the Maple one has the most flavour but the Salted Caramel is also pretty good.” — a user from r/AskUK

Sweeteners & Health Considerations

While syrups offer festive flavour, many use artificial sweeteners such as sucralose or aspartame, both generally have minimal impact on blood glucose levels, making them acceptable for diabetic guests. 

However, experts advise moderation as some individuals may experience digestive discomfort or changes in appetite or gut health. 

Stevia, monk fruit, or allulose are natural or low-glycaemic sweeteners that can be used in baking; allulose behaves more like real sugar in recipes, though it’s currently more niche. 

Quick Recommendations for a Diabetic-Friendly Festive Spread

Ingredient Recommendation

Syrup for coffee / drinks Skinny Food Co Maple & Cinnamon or Monin Gingerbread

Dessert drizzle Skinny Food Co Hazelnut or Chocolate Fudge Cake flavour

Baking sweetener Consider sucralose-based syrup or natural substitutes like stevia/allulose

Label clearly Mark sugar-free options at your buffet to minimise confusion

Offer variety Include one traditional sweet alongside sugar-free alternatives so everyone can enjoy

Using zero sugar syrups lets you create festive menus—think flavored coffees, mocktails, baked treats—that are both indulgent and considerate of diabetic dietary needs. 

The Skinny Food Co range stands out for availability and flavour variety in the UK; Monin offers rich, barista-style quality; and Bulk™ is a reliable calorie-free alternative.

How to Run a Secret Santa Scheme at Your Workplace

As the festive season approaches, one of the simplest, and most enjoyable, ways to spread Christmas cheer in the office, shop or workshop is to organise a Secret Santa gift exchange. 

It’s a light-hearted tradition that can bring colleagues together, spark some laughter, and ensure everyone feels included in the celebrations.

 If you’ve never run one before, here’s a step-by-step guide to making sure your workplace Secret Santa goes smoothly.

Step 1: Get Everyone On Board

Before anything else, check that people want to take part. While many will jump at the idea, some may prefer not to, so always make participation optional. You can send out a quick email, create a sign-up sheet, or even set up a poll to gather names.

Step 2: Set a Budget

To keep things fair, it’s important to set a clear spending limit. In workplaces, budgets of £5–£15 usually work well – enough to buy something thoughtful without being excessive. Make sure everyone knows the upper limit in advance.

Step 3: Decide How to Draw Names

Traditionally, names are pulled from a hat, but you can also use online Secret Santa generators that email each participant their chosen person. Digital tools are especially useful if your team works remotely or across different offices.

Step 4: Set the Ground Rules

Agree on a few guidelines before the exchange. For example:

Stick to the budget.

Avoid inappropriate or offensive gifts.

If in doubt, keep it fun, thoughtful, or practical.

Some teams also like to set a theme, such as “cosy gifts,” “desk treats,” or “something festive” which adds a bit of creativity to the challenge.

Step 5: Choose the Date and Venue

Pick a time for the gift exchange, perhaps during the office Christmas party, a team lunch, or a coffee break in the run-up to the holidays. For hybrid or remote teams, gifts can be posted or exchanged during a virtual festive gathering. Perhaps you could hire a"real" Santa to help hand out the presents?

Step 6: Add a Twist (Optional)

If you want to make it more entertaining, you can:

Have a “guess the Santa” reveal, where everyone tries to work out who bought their gift.

Play Secret Santa Swap, where gifts are chosen from a pile and can be swapped around before the final reveal.

Encourage homemade or creative gifts, which can make for some of the most memorable surprises.

Step 7: Funny Gift Ideas to Inspire You 

Need inspiration? Here are some light-hearted gifts that usually get a laugh (and still fit the budget):

Mug with a cheeky slogan – “This might be gin” always raises eyebrows in the office.

Mini desk games – tiny basketball hoops or stress-ball catapults are perfect for coffee-break competitions.

Novelty socks – from Rudolph noses to “bring me wine” messages, socks never go out of style.

Grow-your-own kits – chillies, herbs, or even bonsai trees for the green-fingered colleague.

Emergency chocolate stash – wrapped like a first-aid kit for that mid-afternoon slump.

Desk calendar with a twist – daily bad jokes, cat pictures, or motivational quotes gone wrong.

Of course, the best Secret Santa gifts are ones that suit the recipient’s personality – but a bit of silliness never hurts!

Step 8: Enjoy the Fun!

The joy of Secret Santa is in the mystery, the laughter, and the thought that goes into each present. It’s not about expensive gifts – it’s about making someone smile.

🎄 Running a Secret Santa at work is a simple way to boost morale and add some festive sparkle to the workplace. With a little organisation (and maybe a pair of novelty socks or two), you’ll create a tradition your colleagues will look forward to year after year.

Boost Your Christmas Sales with Free Promotion on Our Blogs

The festive season is fast approaching, and with it comes one of the busiest times of the year for many businesses. 

Whether you’re offering unique Christmas gifts, indulgent festive food hampers, or seasonal drinks that deserve a spot on every party table, getting your products seen by the right audience is key.

That’s where we come in.

At That’s Christmas 365 and our sister blog, That’s Food and Drink, we’re dedicated to shining a spotlight on the very best festive finds, from thoughtful presents to delicious food and drink. Our readers come to us for inspiration and recommendations, and we want to showcase your products to them.

The best part? There’s no cost to you.

We believe Christmas is all about sharing, and we’re offering businesses the opportunity to feature their festive offerings across our blogs completely free of charge. It’s a simple way to gain extra exposure, build buzz around your products, and help you reach new customers this holiday season.

How we can help promote your products:

Dedicated features on our blogs

Gift guides showcasing Christmas must-haves

Spotlight posts on festive food and drink trends

Social media support to spread the word even further

If you’re a business with something special to share this Christmas, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch today to have your products featured on That’s Christmas and That’s Food and Drink. Let’s make this festive season brighter – together.

Just email us at afj_uk@yahoo.com.

A Christmas Tree for Every Space from Garden Trading

Garden Trading is delighted to unveil its new carefully curated selection of artificial Christmas trees, designed to bring timeless style and ease to your festive decorating. 

Thoughtfully chosen to suit a range of interior styles, from the cosy cottage to a contemporary home, the collection combines lifelike detail with lasting quality, offering an alternative to traditional cut trees. And no needles to clean up or to remove from paws, too.

Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, the range includes everything from a charming 40cm tree, perfect for mantelpieces and tabletops, to a statement-making 8ft tree that brings festive magic to larger living spaces. 

Whether left unadorned for a minimalist look or dressed in delightful heirloom ornaments, each tree is designed to elevate seasonal styling with minimal effort.

To learn more or to order your trees please visit https://www.gardentrading.co.uk

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When Should You Start Making Your Christmas Pudding?

If there’s one festive tradition that truly stands the test of time, it’s the making of the Christmas pudding. 

Rich, fruity, spiced and often generously laced with a splash of brandy, sometimes with lashings of Guinness, it’s the centrepiece of many British Christmas dinners. But when, exactly, should you make it?

The answer lies in tradition – and in a little day known as Stir-up Sunday.

What is Stir-up Sunday?

Stir-up Sunday falls on the last Sunday before Advent (which begins four Sundays before Christmas Day). 

In 2025, that date will be 23rd November. The day gets its name from the opening words of the Book of Common Prayer’s collect for that Sunday: “Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord…” Over the years, this became associated with stirring up the Christmas pudding.

Families would gather in the kitchen, each taking a turn to stir the pudding mixture from east to west in honour of the Three Wise Men, and often making a wish as they did so. 

Traditionally, a silver coin (usually a sixpence) was also stirred into the mixture for luck – though if you do this today, you might want to warn your guests first! 

There's a story in my wife's family of someone breaking their tooth on the sixpence and having to wait, in considerable pain, until he dentist opened after the Christmas holiday.  

Why Make it Then?

Making your pudding on Stir-up Sunday gives it plenty of time to mature before Christmas Day. The rich blend of dried fruits, spices and alcohol develops a deeper flavour the longer it rests, and many say that a pudding made weeks ahead is far superior to one made in a rush just before the big day.

The pudding is usually steamed for several hours when first made, then stored in a cool, dark place until Christmas. On the day itself, it’s steamed again before serving, doused in brandy, and brought to the table flaming – a moment of theatre that never fails to impress.

Do You Have to Make It Then?

Not at all! While Stir-up Sunday is a wonderful tradition, life doesn’t always stick to the calendar. You can make your pudding earlier in November, or even in October, if you like. In fact, some cooks prefer making it well in advance so the flavours can really develop. On the other hand, if you find yourself short on time, even a pudding made a week or two before Christmas will still be delicious.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

Whether you follow the calendar to the letter or adapt it to suit your own schedule, Stir-up Sunday is a lovely way to mark the start of the festive season. It’s about more than just cooking – it’s about family, anticipation, and keeping alive a tradition that has been passed down for generations.

So if you haven’t tried it before, why not set aside the Sunday before Advent this year, roll up your sleeves, and stir up a little Christmas magic?

Christmas Drinks? We have that covered!

It may still be summer, but Christmas will be here before you know it - and now’s the perfect time to get ahead on gift planning. 

This year we have organised our favourite spirits by price, making it easy to find something great no matter your budget. Whether you’re after affordable stocking fillers, great-value picks or a show-stopping gift, consider it sorted. From crisp gins and award-winning whiskies to vibrant liqueurs and inclusive non-alcoholic options, our selection offers something special for every taste and occasion.

Under £10 

Sierra Margarita Canned Cocktails  

Ready to chill and serve, Sierra Margarita cans are a playful addition to Christmas celebrations - perfect for parties, stockings, or sharing with friends.

The Sierra Margarita cans have been designed in vibrant colours and feature the iconic guitar-playing Jimador, Poncho, relaxing in the sunset. 

The Sierra red sombrero is instantly recognisable as a mark of quality and heritage, guaranteeing that the cocktail inside is full of bold flavour, expertly mixed and made for those moments worth savouring. These ‘bar-quality’ Margaritas have launched in two flavours, Lime and Strawberry.

Sierra Lime Margarita and Sierra Strawberry Margarita Range 12 x 250 ml Can Pack RRP £30.00 ABV: 6%. Available from Amazon and convenience stores across the UK. 

RRP: 1 x 250ml can for £2.49. ABV: 6%. Available to purchase from Lidl.

Under £20 

Australian Bitters 

A must for any cocktail enthusiast, Australian Bitters brings depth, character, and complexity to both classic and contemporary serves - from Old Fashioned's and Manhattans to Espresso Martinis.

 A true essential for any well-stocked bar.

Australian Aromatic Bitters RRP: 1 x 250ml for £14.50. ABV: 45%. Available to purchase from Amazon. 

Van Hunks Non Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé

For those skipping the alcohol but not the celebrations, Van Hunks Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé is a sophisticated, crowd-pleasing alternative. 

Crafted using traditional winemaking techniques and carefully de-alcoholised to retain character and balance, it’s ideal for festive toasts, thoughtful gifting, or pairing with light dishes and good company.

Van Hunks Non Alcoholic: RRP £14 for 75cl bottle. ABV: 0.5% Available from Amazon and Van Hunks Website https://vanhunksdrinks.com

Limoncè Limoncello  

Crafted in Sicily using handpicked Femminello lemons—renowned for their intense citrus character—Limoncè Limoncello is Italy’s number one selling limoncello and a benchmark for quality and tradition. 

Free from artificial flavours or colouring, it’s made using a cold-infusion technique that preserves the natural brightness and zest of the fruit, while gentle double filtration delivers clarity and finesse. 

The result is a vibrant, aromatic liqueur with a citrus-forward profile, balanced sweetness, and a refined, zesty finish. Enjoy Limoncè Limoncello chilled or in a refreshing Limoncè Spritz. I first found Limoncello in an Italian cocktail bar in London. Absolutely amazing drink!

Limoncè Limoncello: RRP from £15 50cl | ABV 25%. Available from: Amazon, Master Of Malt and Ocado

Cotswolds Dry Gin Essence 

A beautifully crafted, lower-alcohol alternative from the award-winning Cotswolds Distillery.

 Made with 10x the botanical concentration of their signature Dry gin, this small but mighty bottle delivers all the flavour with a fraction of the alcohol. 

Each 5ml serve contains just 0.23 units of alcohol and 14 calories, just enough alcohol to toast, not topple. Simply add tonic for a lighter version of a G&T or add to your other favourite classic Gin cocktails. 

Whether gifting to a cocktail enthusiast, a health-conscious friend or someone exploring low-alcoholic options, this is a gift that feels refreshingly different. 

Cotswolds Dry Gin Essence: RRP from 18.50 for 100ml. ABV 46%. Available from The Cotswolds Distillery https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Under £30

Van Hunks Brut  

Crafted in the traditional méthode cap classique, Van Hunks Brut Sparkling Wine is a premium South African fizz made from 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. 

Aged on the lees for 30 months, it offers refined complexity with delicate fruit, fine bubbles, and a beautifully balanced finish.

It's ideal for festive celebrations, thoughtful gifting, or raising a glass in style. 

Van Hunks Brut: RRP from £25 for 75cl bottle. ABV: 12%. Available from Amazon and Van Hunks website https://vanhunksdrinks.com

Dutch Barn Vodka  

Dutch Barn Vodka Original

A beautifully smooth and exceptionally clean vodka, Dutch Barn Vodka Original is perfect for those who appreciate quality and simplicity. 

Its crisp, pure character makes it ideal for sipping neat or mixing into classic cocktails—an elegant gift to toast the season with style. And it's made with apples! In Yorkshire.

Dutch Barn Vodka Original RRP: from £25 for 70cl. ABV: 40%. Available from Dutch Barn Vodka,  Amazon and Sainsbury’s.  https://dutchbarn.com

Dutch Barn Vodka Cherry

Add a splash of festive cheer with Dutch Barn Vodka Cherry. This vibrant cherry-flavored vodka delivers a luscious, fruity twist on the classic, ideal for holiday cocktails or warming winter drinks. A delightful gift that brings a burst of joyful flavour to any Christmas celebration.

Dutch Barn Vodka Cherry RRP: from £32 for 70cl. ABV: 40%. Available from Dutch Barn Vodka, and  Amazon.

Under £40 

Pantalones 

This Christmas, gift an organic tequila that combines quality and character. Pantalones Tequila comes in two expressions, Reposado and Blanco, each crafted to deliver a distinctive and smooth experience. 

Co-founded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey, this award-winning spirit invites you to enjoy life with a lighthearted spirit.

Pantalones Reposado 

A perfect gift for the tequila lover who appreciates a richer sip this holiday season. Aged nine months in American oak whisky barrels, this smooth and golden Reposado offers warming notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak - ideal for cozy winter evenings and festive celebrations.

Pantalones Tequila Reposado: RRP [X]  ABV 40% for 70 cl. Available on trade at select cosy club venues. Soon to be in supermarkets UK wide. 

Pantalones Blanco  

Bright, fresh, and smooth, this organic Blanco is bursting with subtle notes of honey, citrus, and cooked agave. Its clean, crisp profile makes it a versatile gift, perfect for classic cocktails or enjoying neat during holiday gatherings.

Pantalones Tequila Blanco: RRP [X]  ABV 40% for 70 cl. Available on trade at select cosy club venues. Soon to be in supermarkets UK wide. 

£50 and over 

Renais Gin Original (Can be Personalised)  

A standout gift for the season, Renais Gin brings thoughtful detail and flavour together in one beautifully crafted bottle. 

Available with personalisation when purchased from the Renais website, it’s an ideal choice for hosts or gin lovers on your list. 

Founded by Alex and Emma Watson and inspired by their family vineyard in Northern France, it’s made using upcycled wine grapes and infused with botanicals like linden flowers, cubeb berries, and acacia honey. The result is a smooth, floral gin that shines in a classic G&T or festive spritz.

Renais Gin RRP: From £48.00 for 70cl. ABV: 40% . Available from www.renais.co.uk 

Renais Grand Cru 

Just in time for buying in for the festive season, Renais Grand Cru is a limited-edition gin matured for a year in a single Grand Cru Chablis oak cask. 

It's smooth and gently spiced, it’s layered with notes of vanilla, citrus and oak, and comes in a beautifully designed bottle, hand-numbered and boxed in sustainable mycelium packaging. 

With only 800 bottles available, it’s a rare and thoughtful gift for any gin lover.

Renais Grand Cru Cask Aged Gin RRP: From £90 for 70cl. ABV 50%. Available exclusively at www.renais.co.uk

Cotswolds Founder’s Choice Single Malt Whisky 

A bold and luxurious choice for whisky lovers, the Cotswolds Founder’s Choice Single Malt Whisky is matured exclusively in STR (that's shaved, toasted, and re-charred) ex-red wine casks to create a rich and intense festive dram. 

Non-chill filtered and naturally coloured, this cask-strength expression (around 60% ABV) offers a deep, complex flavour profile with notes of toffee, dark chocolate, and red berries, followed by layers of mocha, cinnamon, and warming ginger spice. The finish brings hints of baked bread and peppery heat — ideal for sipping slowly by the fire over the Christmas holidays.

Cotswolds Founder’s Choice Single Malt Whisky: RRP £76 for 70cl. ABV  Between 59.1% ABV and 60.5%. Available at Cotswolds Distillery Website https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Cotswolds Dry Gin Magnum  

Make a statement this Christmas with the Cotswolds Dry Gin Magnum , a 1.5L bottle of award-winning gin that's as impressive in size as it is in flavour. 

Crafted using a generous blend of nine carefully selected botanicals, including freshly peeled lime and pink grapefruit zest, this classic London Dry-style gin is bursting with citrus, spice and juniper-forward character. 

It’s the perfect centrepiece for festive celebrations or a standout gift for any gin lover.

Cotswolds Dry Gin Magnum: RRP £78 for1.5L. ABV 46%. Available at Cotswolds Distillery Website https://www.cotswoldsdistillery.com

Scottish skincare brand Arganorganics launches 'botanical botox' range. An Ideal Christmas Gift

Perthshire's very own natural skincare brand Arganorganics have quite literally created a new beauty buzzword. 

Which we feel will make excellent Christmas gifts for those in your life who care about their skin and also perhaps some self-gifting for you, too?

They are the only company in the world to use two types of an extract of the Madagascan botanical Acmella Oleracea in their newly launched Regeneration range. 

A delicate yellow flowering plant Acmella Oleracea's unique numbing effect led to its popularity in cocktails and the nickname “buzz buttons.” 

Now Arganorganics has harnessed the innovative muscle relaxant properties of the botanical to develop a range that is a natural alternative to injectables.

Why is Acmella Oleracea groundbreaking?

It's been clinically proven to reduce expression lines and crows feet by exerting a temporary muscle relaxant effect similar to injectables and it's particularly effective on crow's feet and wrinkles around the mouth and has an immediate smoothing effect.

The Regeneration Anti-Ageing Range

The Regeneration range comprises the flagship Regeneration moisturiser and four serums - face, night, neck/chest and eye - that can be used on their own or layered under the moisturiser. Combining organic plant oils, natural actives, optimal 1% strength plant based retinol alternative bakuchiol and sustainable marine algae the range instantly smooths and minimises lines.

What makes this range different?

By incorporating two different extracts of the Acmella Oleracea plant and combining with natural actives artisan brand Arganorganics has produced a unique and gentle alternative to commercial injectables. 

It's become something of a cliche for brands to promote 'botox in a bottle' products, but with this range with its clinically proven muscle relaxant effects Arganorganics can genuinely make that claim.

FACTFILE:

Founded in 2011 by Dr Ails Smith Arganorganics is a sustainable artisan skincare brand based in rural Perthshire. It combines rare therapeutic Asian botanicals with indigenous botanicals many of which are locally sourced and grown on her farm with plant oils and natural actives to produce therapeutic treatments for skin conditions rosacea, eczema and psoriasis and innovative beauty ranges.

The new Regeneration anti-ageing range is available to buy from https://arganorganics.co.uk

Opies. Perfect for Christmas

Festive Foodies Unite! Opies have the perfect Christmas Gifts for Home Cooks, Secret Santas & Stocking Stuffers

You can really hit the sweet spot this Christmas with a delicious gift that’s under a tenner! 

Ideal for budding chefs, secret Santas, or that relative who’s impossible to shop for.

Opies Fruits with Alcohol – pantry heroes that bring bold flavour to puddings, cocktails, meringues and more.

3 irresistible flavours – all in luxe Luxardo® spirits and packed in stylish globe jars:

Black Cherries in Kirsch 460g

Baby Pears in Amaretto 420g

Peaches in 12‑Year‑Old Brandy 460g

Buying for a special diet? The Fruits with Alcohol are both gluten and dairy free as well as vegan friendly.

Gift individually or mix ‘n’ match – make a luxe addition to a custom hamper or a Christmas stocking that’ll be a guaranteed hit.

Upgrade your festive menu – serve straight from the jar with cream or ice cream, or amplify crumbles, trifles, tarte tatin, soufflés and more.

Ready-to-use recipes on the label and even more ideas online. Head to www.bennettopie.com for creative kitchen inspiration. I can also send a selection of recipes for Christmas leftovers, side dishes, desserts and cocktails if of interest.

Make the most of that syrup – turn it into boozy ice cubes, grown-up jellies, or a savoury glaze for meats.

Reusable jars – perfect for storing spices, nuts, herbs… or repurposed as festive tealight holders or home-styled snow globe.

Buy – in store and online from Waitrose / Waitrose.com as well as Nisa stores.

RSP – from £6.75

https://www.bennettopie.com

That's Food and Drink: Sweet Spreads Aren't Just For The Kids, Says Bonne...

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FeatherSnap: Your Window to the Wild This Christmas

If you have avid bird spotters in your life who you are wondering what to buy them for Christmas, then That's Christmas 365 has found you the perfect gift.

Meet FeatherSnap the amazing device that transforms birdwatching into an interactive, tech-powered experience that they and their whole family can enjoy. Key features include:

• Capture stunning high-resolution photos and videos of every bird that visits their garden.

• Offers Real-time motion alerts – never miss a moment, no matter where they are.

• They can Curate their own Bird Book, collecting photos and videos of visiting species.

• Discover fascinating bird facts as they watch.

• AI-powered bird ID to help spot and identify even the trickiest of species.

• Achievement badges unlock as they progress on their birding journey.

• Solar panel roof for extended battery life.

• Built to withstand the elements for reliable, year-round performance.

Courtesy Heather Osborn

Gift Subscription Bundle:

Give them the gift of a year-round birding adventure!

• FeatherSnap Scout – RRP £159.99

• FeatherSnap Wi-Fi Subscription – £5.99/month or £49.99/year

The subscription unlocks full app functionality, including real-time alerts, species ID, and Bird Book collection.

Perfect for nature lovers, tech enthusiasts, or anyone who’d love a window to the wild this Christmas.

Explore more: https://uk.feathersnapcam.com