How to Ruin Your Restaurant or Gastropub in Time for Christmas: A Guaranteed Guide

How dare you expect decent service?

My wife and I write on food and drink matters and we both have backgrounds in the catering and pub trade. My wife's mother and my father were both chefs and we have family members in the pub and restaurant trades both here and in the USA and Canada. So we know what to expect in a reasonably expensive restaurant. 

We were visiting one of our favourite gastropubs when my wife was served a glass of Merlot that was not to the usual high standard of the pub. She said: "This is dreadful!" She asked me to taste it and unlike their previous Merlot, this was not buttery smooth, this was harsh and unpleasant. We checked the wine list. They had changed the wine they serve.

When our gourmet burgers arrived rather than being served on proper crockery as previously they were served on marked and scratched very small wooden trenchers (very Medieval) that were not large enough to stop the food from escaping onto the uncleaned table. 

My wife normally has several glasses of wine whilst I have several pints of beer with our meals.. We cut our visit much shorter than normal and we have cancelled our plans to have a Christmas meal there. My wife joked: "It's almost as if they are following a guide on how to wreck their restaurant trade for the Christmas period!"

And I thought: Time for a blogpost on this very subject!

The festive season is one of the most anticipated times of the year for the hospitality industry. It’s a golden opportunity for restaurants and gastropubs to make a lasting impression on customers, attract new clientele, and build loyal patrons who’ll come back long after the Christmas lights have been long taken down. 

But if you're looking to do the complete opposite, perhaps to achieve a spectacular implosion in time for the new year, this guide is for you. Here’s how you can absolutely guarantee to ruin your restaurant or gastropub this Christmas.

Step 1: Serve Cheaper, Poor-Quality Wines

Nothing says “we don’t care” quite like replacing your carefully curated wine list with the cheapest bottles you can find. After all, why bother offering your customers a quality bottle of Merlot or Bordeaux or an elegant Sauvignon Blanc when you can stockpile bargain-basement plonk that tastes like vinegar?

Here’s how to maximise the damage:

Switch to the Cheapest House Wines: The cheapest box wine will do. Your customers won't notice the difference, right? Clue: they absolutely will. There’s nothing quite like the disappointment of a glass of overly sweet, or excessively dry and poorly aged wine to ruin a festive dinner.

Stop Offering Wine Pairings: Your knowledgeable sommelier or staff member recommending wines? Get rid of them. Just let customers fend for themselves, and if they ask for suggestions, train your remaining staff to respond with a shrug and say: "I don't like wine!"

Serve at the Wrong Temperature: Serve white wines warm and red wines chilled for that special touch. Bonus points if the wine glasses are still warm and wet from the dishwasher.

Step 2: Opt for Poor-Quality Cuts of Meat

Christmas is traditionally a time for indulgence, and your customers will likely expect to enjoy high-quality festive dishes. But if your goal is to drive them away, then skimping on ingredients is the fastest route to dissatisfaction.

Replace Premium Cuts with Cheaper Alternatives: Replace that prime rib with tough, gristly cuts. Who needs succulent turkey when you can serve a dry, flavourless bird that was frozen for months? Or even serve catering industry pressed turkey rounds, rather than fresh turkey? Bonus points if your steak requires a hacksaw to cut through.

Go for Processed, Pre-Packaged Options: Skip the freshly prepared roasts, gravies, and sauces. Instead, stock up on pre-packaged, mass-produced alternatives. Customers won't mind if their Christmas dinner tastes like a school cafeteria meal… or maybe they will, and they won’t be back.

Overcook or Undercook Everything: There’s nothing quite like a Christmas roast that’s either charred to a crisp or practically raw. If you’re aiming for bad reviews, ensuring every dish comes out of the kitchen improperly cooked is a surefire method.

Step 3: Hire Indifferent or Hostile Serving Staff

Service is often the make-or-break factor in the restaurant business. But if you’re looking to alienate your customers, nothing works better than unwelcoming, apathetic, or downright rude staff.

Hire Staff Who Don't Care: When interviewing potential waitstaff, look for candidates who display zero enthusiasm for hospitality. If they roll their eyes at the thought of serving customers, you’ve found the perfect fit.

Encourage Staff to Be Indifferent: Train your team to avoid eye contact, ignore guests who try to get their attention, and never, ever smile. After all, Christmas is about making people feel unwelcome, isn't it?

Respond to Complaints with Hostility: If customers dare to express dissatisfaction, make sure your staff respond defensively or even aggressively. Accusing them of being too picky or telling them they're wrong is a brilliant way to guarantee they'll never return.

Step 4: Create a Miserable Atmosphere

The Christmas season is supposed to be about warmth, joy, and celebration, so naturally, you’ll want to go in the opposite direction.

Skip the Christmas Decorations: If you do decide to put up any decorations, make sure they’re sparse, tacky, or downright depressing. A few sad-looking tinsel strands and a broken fairy light should do the trick.

Play Inappropriate or Annoying Music: Forget festive classics. Instead, choose music that’s either gratingly upbeat or completely inappropriate for the season. Better yet, have no music at all, so diners can fully appreciate the awkward silence.

Maintain an Uncomfortable Temperature: Whether it’s freezing cold or stiflingly hot, make sure your restaurant is as uncomfortable as possible. A broken heater or an open window on a cold December night can really drive customers away.

Step 5: Ignore Dietary Requirements and Preferences

The modern diner often has dietary restrictions or preferences. But catering to those needs is only necessary if you actually want people to enjoy their experience.

Refuse to Accommodate Allergies: Gluten-free? Dairy-free? Vegetarian? Vegan? Who cares? Just don’t bother. A great way to ruin your reputation is by ignoring dietary requests and causing discomfort—or worse, allergic reactions.

Remove Any Special Menus: The holidays are a time when people like to indulge. Remove any festive specials or vegetarian options and replace them with your regular, uninspired menu. The fewer choices, the better.

Step 6: Use Social Media to Showcase Your Failures

If you really want to drive the final nail into the coffin of your restaurant or gastropub, use social media to document your failures.

Post Low-Quality Photos of Your Food: Share poorly lit, unappetising photos of your dishes on Instagram and Facebook. The worse the photo looks, the more likely it will deter potential customers.

Respond to Negative Reviews with Sarcasm: When disgruntled customers leave reviews on Google or TripAdvisor, make sure to respond with snarky comments or, better yet, ignore them entirely. Nothing screams professionalism like defensiveness.

Congratulations, You’ve Ruined Christmas!

By following this guide, you'll successfully drive away loyal patrons, discourage new customers, and ensure that your restaurant or gastropub is the talk of the town—for all the wrong reasons. Come January, you’ll have all the time in the world to reflect on how it all went wrong while sitting in your empty dining room.

But if you're reading this and thinking, “I don't actually want to ruin my business!” then consider this guide as a cautionary tale of what not to do. The festive season is your chance to shine. Treat your customers well, serve quality food, and create an atmosphere that makes people feel welcome, and you’ll reap the rewards for months to come.

Happy Christmas! And may your restaurant be filled with laughter, satisfied customers, and ringing tills!

Maybe one day I'll tell you the story of how my wife and I and a couple of friends stumbled upon a country pub/restaurant which had excellent food served by a perky and smiling young lady who was providing a good standard of silver service - whilst wearing a woolly beanie hat!

The Gift of Subscription Boxes: Bringing Christmas Cheer All Year Round

Finding the perfect gift can be a joy, but let’s face it: choosing something meaningful and memorable can sometimes be a bit daunting. 

If you’re looking for a present that will keep your loved ones delighted long after the festive season ends, a subscription box might be the answer. The best part? 

With subscription services for everything from chocolates and cheeses to wines and craft beers, you can tailor a gift to your recipient’s tastes, and ensure that Christmas cheer lingers throughout the year. 

Here’s a look at some of the most popular (and indulgent!) subscription box ideas for keeping the festive spirit alive all year long.

1. Chocolate Subscription Boxes: A Sweet Monthly Treat

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Whether your loved one is a connoisseur of dark chocolate or has a penchant for truffles and caramels, chocolate subscription boxes make it easy to bring a little joy to their door each month. Many chocolate clubs offer curated selections from artisan chocolatiers, so they’ll get to experience a variety of flavours, textures, and cacao blends. Some even focus on fair trade or organic options, which add a layer of ethical gifting to each sweet parcel.

This is the perfect gift for anyone with a sweet tooth, and with so many options, it’s easy to find a subscription that’s truly unique. Imagine your friend or family member unwrapping beautifully crafted chocolate bars with exciting flavours like chilli-infused dark chocolate, salted caramel, or even seasonal varieties.

2. Wine Club Subscriptions: A World Tour of Wine

For the wine lovers in your life, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a wine club subscription. These memberships typically deliver a curated selection of wines every month, with choices ranging from vintage classics to adventurous new world wines. Most subscriptions also come with tasting notes, food-pairing suggestions, and information on the wine’s origins, so your recipient will not only enjoy a delicious glass but also learn about the unique qualities of each bottle.

Whether they’re a fan of bold reds, crisp whites, or bubbly champagnes, wine clubs offer a personalised experience and a sense of discovery with each delivery. It’s the gift of a monthly indulgence, perfect for winding down a long day or celebrating a special occasion.

3. Craft Beer Subscriptions: A Brew Lover’s Dream

If you know someone who loves a good pint, a craft beer subscription could be just the thing to make their year a little more exciting. With craft breweries popping up everywhere, many beer clubs provide exclusive or hard-to-find selections from both local and international breweries. From IPAs and stouts to pilsners and sours, each delivery is a new adventure in taste.

Most subscriptions come with tasting notes and food-pairing tips, and some even provide branded glassware or coasters. It’s a great way for beer enthusiasts to explore new flavours and find their next favourite brew. This is a gift that truly keeps giving, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on a cosy night in.

4. Cheese Clubs: Monthly Decadence for Cheese Lovers

For the cheese aficionado, a cheese subscription is practically a ticket to heaven. Many cheese clubs deliver artisan selections from local farms or international producers, with varieties ranging from creamy bries to sharp cheddars, blue cheese, and tangy goat cheese. Each month brings a chance to sample cheeses they may never have tried, along with notes on flavour profiles, origins, and serving suggestions.

Some cheese subscriptions even pair selections with crackers, chutneys, and pairing notes for wine or beer, creating a complete tasting experience. Imagine the delight on your recipient’s face as they receive a box of gourmet cheeses every month, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as an indulgent treat.

5. Coffee Subscriptions: Fuel for the Caffeine Enthusiast

If you have a coffee lover on your list, a coffee subscription might be the ideal gift. Coffee clubs typically offer beans from around the world, sourced directly from the farmers and roasted to perfection before being sent out to subscribers. From fruity Ethiopian blends to rich Brazilian roasts, each delivery will be an experience in new and exciting flavours. Many subscriptions allow you to choose whole beans or ground coffee, so it’s convenient for any type of coffee lover.

Some coffee clubs also include tasting notes, brewing tips, and information on each origin, making it an educational experience as well. Whether your loved one is a pour-over fan, a cold brew enthusiast, or someone who simply can’t start the day without a rich espresso, a coffee subscription will keep them happily caffeinated all year.

6. Book Club Subscriptions: An Escape in Every Parcel

For the avid reader, a book club subscription offers the pleasure of receiving a new story each month. Many book subscriptions allow you to tailor the selection to your recipient’s favourite genres, whether they love thrillers, romance, non-fiction, or classic literature. Each month they’ll get a new book to dive into, with some clubs even offering exclusive editions or signed copies.

Some book subscriptions come with added treats like bookmarks, art prints, or themed items that tie into the book. It’s a thoughtful way to give the gift of adventure, excitement, and knowledge throughout the year, offering a mini escape in each delivery.

7. More Subscription Ideas for the Foodie, Fitness Buff, and Beyond

From spices and sauces to artisanal honey or vegan snacks, there’s a subscription service for nearly every interest. For the health-conscious, you can find monthly deliveries of vitamins, protein powders, or fitness accessories. For the home chef, gourmet spice kits or meal kits can inspire creativity in the kitchen. There are even subscription boxes for gardeners, crafters, and pet lovers—each one designed to bring a touch of joy and excitement each month.

Final Thoughts: A Gift That Truly Lasts

Subscription boxes offer the ultimate way to give a gift that keeps giving. Every month, they provide a little moment of happiness, an opportunity to discover something new, and a reminder of your thoughtfulness. Whether it’s chocolates, wine, cheese, or even books, each delivery is like a mini celebration, a touch of Christmas that lasts all year long. And for the loved ones on your list who seem to have everything, a subscription box might be the most thoughtful—and enduring—gift of all.

Brew Your Own Christmas Beer at Home Using a Beer Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide

As Christmas approaches, what better way to bring some festive cheer to the table than with a homemade brew? 

Using a beer kit, you can craft a personalised batch just in time for Christmastime. 

Beer kits offer an approachable, fairly easy, way for beginners to get into the art of brewing, and with a bit of patience and planning, you’ll have your own flavourful ale to share with friends and family. 

Here’s a detailed, easy-to-follow guide to get you started.

Step 1: Choose Your Beer Kit

To make things easy, start with a pre-assembled beer kit, which typically includes a can of malt extract (the base for the beer), hops, and yeast. The type of kit you select will determine the style and flavour of your beer, so think about what will complement your Christmas feast!

Popular Kit Styles for Christmas:

Porter or Stout: Dark, rich, and often with notes of chocolate or coffee, these heavier beers pair well with colder weather.

IPA or Pale Ale: Bright and hoppy, these can cut through rich dishes and add a refreshing counterpoint.

Winter Warmer or Spiced Ale: Some kits may even have hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, or orange peel, making for a truly festive experience.

Step 2: Gather Your Equipment

You’ll need a few extra tools to brew at home with a beer kit. Some essential equipment includes:

Fermentation bucket (25-litre capacity recommended)

Hydrometer: To measure alcohol content

Sterilising solution: Essential for cleanliness

Bottles and caps: 40-50 bottles for a standard kit

Siphon and bottling wand: For transferring and bottling

You can usually find complete starter kits online or at home-brewing shops, which have all the equipment bundled together.

Step 3: Sterilise Everything

Proper sterilisation is critical to ensure that your beer doesn’t develop any off-flavours or become contaminated. Use a sterilising solution to clean all your equipment, including the fermentation bucket, stirring spoon, siphon, and bottles. Follow the instructions on the steriliser, usually letting it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.

Step 4: Mix and Boil the Ingredients

Follow these steps to begin brewing:

Heat the malt extract: Place the can of malt extract in hot water for 5-10 minutes to make it easier to pour.

Add water and malt to the bucket: Pour the malt extract into the sterilised fermentation bucket and add hot water (about 5 litres) to dissolve it. Stir until well combined.

Top up with cold water: Fill the bucket with enough cold water to bring it to the recommended volume (usually around 23 litres). This should bring the temperature down to the range needed for fermentation (around 18-24°C, depending on your yeast).

Step 5: Pitch the Yeast

Once your wort (unfermented beer) is at the right temperature, it’s time to “pitch” the yeast. Sprinkle the yeast on top of the wort, then cover the fermentation bucket with its lid, making sure to fit the airlock. The airlock allows gas to escape during fermentation without letting contaminants in. Place your bucket somewhere cool, dark, and steady – ideally around 18-22°C, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast or affect fermentation.

Step 6: Let It Ferment

For most beer kits, fermentation will take about 7-10 days. You’ll know fermentation has started when bubbles begin to escape through the airlock after about 24 hours. To ensure fermentation is complete, take a reading with your hydrometer on day 7 and again on day 10. If the readings are the same, fermentation is finished.

Step 7: Bottling Your Beer

Once fermentation is complete, it’s time to bottle:

Priming sugar: Add a small amount of priming sugar (about 5 grams per litre) to each bottle to carbonate the beer. This sugar will ferment in the bottle, creating fizz.

Siphoning: Use the siphon to transfer beer from the fermentation bucket into the bottles, avoiding any sediment at the bottom. Fill each bottle up, leaving a little space at the top.

Cap and store: Cap each bottle securely and store them in a cool, dark place for around two weeks. This will allow the beer to carbonate. 

Here's a tip: For safety reasons only ever use pressurised bottles.

Step 8: Age and Enjoy!

While your beer will be drinkable after two weeks in the bottle, giving it a few more weeks to mature will enhance the flavour. Brew your beer in early November, and it will be ready to pour by Christmas.

Tips for a Festive Twist

For an added Christmas touch, you can add a few spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or even orange peel to the fermentation bucket. Just be sparing – a small amount can go a long way!

Final Thoughts

Homebrewing is a brilliant way to add a personal touch to your holiday festivities. With a bit of time and patience, you’ll have a homemade beer ready for sharing (or gifting) come Christmas day. Cheers to a merry and malty Christmas!

An online supplier of homebrew products is Brew Genie:- https://www.brewgenie.co.uk

But I'm Not That Keen on Wine! How to Pair Beer and Cider with Christmas Foods and Cheeses

As the festive season rolls around, many of us find ourselves knee-deep in rich Christmas dinners, endless cheese platters, and indulgent puddings. 

For some, the natural beverage accompaniment is wine—perhaps a spicy red or a crisp white. But what if you're just not that keen on wine? If you’re more of a beer or cider enthusiast, don’t worry. 

There are plenty of exciting pairings that will not only complement your Christmas spread but elevate it. Here’s how you can enjoy your favourite brews with traditional festive fare.

Starters: Light, Crisp, and Fresh

Food: Prawn Cocktail, Smoked Salmon Blini

Pair with: Lager or Pilsner

When starting with something light and fresh, like a prawn cocktail or smoked salmon, you want a beer that won’t overpower the delicate flavours. A crisp, clean lager or pilsner is a great match. These beers have a gentle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the seafood and cuts through the richness of the cream or butter often used in starters. Alternatively, a dry cider can also work wonders here, with its bright acidity complementing the briny seafood notes.

Main Course: Roasts and Trimmings

Food: Roast Turkey, Ham, Stuffing, and all the Trimmings

Pair with: Pale Ale or English Bitter

Christmas dinner is a hearty affair, full of bold flavours and plenty of richness. A pale ale, with its moderate bitterness and fruity notes, works brilliantly alongside roast turkey and stuffing. The malt character of the ale will enhance the caramelised elements of roast vegetables, while the bitterness cleanses the palate after bites of rich gravy and cranberry sauce. If you prefer something more traditional, an English bitter is an excellent choice, offering a mild hop flavour that complements the savoury herbs in your stuffing and roast.

Food: Roast Beef or Lamb

Pair with: Stout or Porter

If beef or lamb is more your Christmas choice, go bold with a stout or porter. These dark beers, with their roasted malt, coffee, and chocolate undertones, stand up well to the intense flavours of red meat. A stout with a slightly sweet, creamy finish can balance out the savoury notes of the gravy, while a porter’s rich, roasted character adds depth to the dish. Think of it as the beer version of a full-bodied red wine.

Cheese Course: A World of Possibilities

Food: Strong Cheddar or Stilton

Pair with: IPA or Barleywine

Cheddar, especially an aged one, needs something equally robust to stand up to its sharpness. An India Pale Ale (IPA), with its pronounced hop bitterness and citrus notes, is a wonderful contrast to the creamy, salty tang of mature cheddar. If you’re tackling a blue cheese like Stilton, a barleywine is a match made in heaven. This strong ale, with its malty sweetness and complex flavours, balances the funkiness of the blue cheese, creating a harmonious pairing. We laid down several bottles of our homemade barleywine for our Christmas feasting. We made it during the summertime.

Food: Brie or Camembert

Pair with: Belgian Dubbel or Wheat Beer

For softer cheeses like Brie or Camembert, opt for something a little lighter but still full of flavour. A Belgian Dubbel, with its rich malt character and subtle spice, is an intriguing partner for these creamy cheeses. Alternatively, a wheat beer, with its fruity and slightly tangy profile, can cut through the richness of the cheese while complementing its earthy, mushroom-like undertones.

Puddings and Dessert: Sweet but Not Too Sweet

Food: Christmas Pudding or Mince Pies

Pair with: Spiced Ale or Cider

Christmas pudding and mince pies are packed with rich fruits, warming spices, and plenty of sweetness. A spiced ale, brewed with ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, mirrors the flavours in the pudding without overwhelming it. If you’re more of a cider fan, a traditional mulled cider or a sweeter, still variety can be an excellent pairing here. The tartness of the apples cuts through the richness of the dessert, while the sweetness complements the dried fruits.

Food: Chocolate Yule Log

Pair with: Milk Stout or Cream Ale

Chocolate desserts can be tricky to pair, but a milk stout, with its sweet, creamy texture and hints of chocolate, is the ideal companion for a rich yule log. The malt sweetness and mild bitterness help balance the dense chocolate, while the smooth finish makes each bite more indulgent. A cream ale, with its light sweetness and smooth mouthfeel, is another great option, providing a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the dessert.

So, even if wine isn’t your cup of tea (or pint of beer), you can still enjoy the perfect Christmas feast with the right beer or cider in hand. From the seafood starters to the cheese course and all the way through to pudding, there’s a brew for every bite. So, raise a glass—be it a pint or a bottle—and cheers to a merry and beery Christmas!

Arranging Alcohol-Free and Low-Alcohol Drinks for Christmas: A Festive Guide

As the Christmas season draws near, the joy of gathering with friends and family becomes the centrepiece of the celebrations. 

But not everyone wants to indulge in high-alcohol beverages. 

Whether it’s due to personal preference, health choices, or simply wanting to maintain a clear head for the next day’s festivities, offering a range of alcohol-free and low-alcohol options ensures all your guests feel included and catered for. 

Here's how to arrange an impressive selection of these drinks to elevate your Christmas celebrations.

1. A Festive Wine Selection

Wine is a staple for Christmas feasts, and fortunately, there are fantastic alcohol-free and low-alcohol alternatives available that don’t compromise on taste.

Alcohol-Free Wines: Brands like Eisberg or Torres Natureo offer a variety of alcohol-free wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. A light, alcohol-free sparkling wine is a must for any Christmas toast and goes wonderfully with starters like smoked salmon or canapés.

Low-Alcohol Wines: For those who want to enjoy wine with a little kick but not the full strength, low-alcohol options (under 5.5%) such as FirstCape Light or Black Tower are a great fit. These wines still carry the depth of flavour that pairs beautifully with Christmas roasts, cheese boards, or a festive dessert.

2. Beers and Ciders: Perfect for a Casual Christmas

Offering alcohol-free and low-alcohol beers and ciders is a great way to keep the festivities fun, especially if you’re hosting a more relaxed gathering.

Alcohol-Free Beers: Many breweries are crafting alcohol-free beers with exceptional quality and taste. BrewDog's Nanny State, Heineken 0.0, and Beck’s Blue are great options that still deliver on that familiar beer experience. Guinness 0.0 is a very fine version of the Guinness Stout type of beer.

Low-Alcohol Beers: Look for beers like Big Drop Brewing Co. or Small Beer Co., which specialise in low-alcohol craft beers that come in various styles – from pale ales to lagers and even porters, perfect for the chilly Christmas weather.

Alcohol-Free Ciders: Cider is a refreshing option, particularly for those who prefer something fruity. Brands like Kopparberg and Stowford Press offer delightful alcohol-free versions that retain the sweetness and tang of traditional ciders.

3. Spirit-Free Cocktails and Mocktails

No Christmas party is complete without a few festive cocktails, and alcohol-free spirits and mixers can make for some creative alternatives.

Alcohol-Free Spirits: Brands like Seedlip, Lyre’s, and Caleño offer incredible alcohol-free versions of popular spirits. From gin-like botanicals to rum-style blends, these can form the base for a range of delicious mocktails.

Mocktail Ideas:

A Christmas Cosmo made with alcohol-free vodka, cranberry juice, and a dash of lime, garnished with frozen cranberries.

A Mulled Apple Punch with alcohol-free rum, spiced apple juice, and cinnamon, ideal for warming up during winter evenings.

A No-Groni, using Seedlip’s spice blend in place of gin, mixed with alcohol-free bitters and vermouth for a festive twist on a classic Negroni.

4. Tips for Presentation and Pairing

Once you’ve chosen your selection of alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Presentation is key, and serving these alternatives in attractive glassware makes them feel just as special as their alcoholic counterparts.

Chill and Serve: Ensure wines and beers are properly chilled, and garnish cocktails with fresh herbs, citrus, or edible flowers to add a festive touch.

Pairing: Just like regular alcoholic drinks, it’s important to think about food pairings. Alcohol-free reds pair well with hearty roasts, while a sparkling white is perfect for nibbles and canapés. Citrus-based mocktails can cut through the richness of Christmas pudding or mince pies.

5. Incorporating Tradition with a Twist

For a nod to tradition, consider recreating classic Christmas drinks in an alcohol-free way:

Alcohol-Free Mulled Wine: Simmer fruit juices like apple or grape with Christmas spices like cloves, cinnamon, and star anise for a warming winter drink.

Non-Alcoholic Eggnog: Make a creamy, indulgent eggnog using a base of almond milk, sugar, nutmeg, and vanilla, leaving out the alcohol or using an alcohol-free spirit for a bit of a kick.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time for bringing people together, and offering alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks is a thoughtful way to include everyone in the celebrations. By curating a diverse and appealing selection, you ensure that your guests, whether teetotal, sober-curious, or simply pacing themselves, can enjoy the festive fun without compromise. So, this year, raise a glass – alcohol-free or otherwise – to a very merry Christmas!

Christmas Drinks: Mulled Wine, Eggnog, and Other Festive Favourites

Christmas is a time for indulgence, celebration, and of course, delicious festive drinks to keep the chill at bay.

As the cold winds blow and twinkling lights adorn our homes, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug or glass brimming with seasonal flavours.

From the traditional mulled wine to creamy eggnog, these drinks are perfect for adding a bit of warmth and cheer to your holiday season. 

Here are some classic recipes and a few twists on festive favourites to try this Christmas.

1. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a quintessential Christmas drink that’s popular across Europe, and for good reason. This warm, spiced red wine, infused with seasonal aromas, is the perfect antidote to winter’s cold.

Ingredients:

1 bottle of red wine (a fruity one like Merlot or Shiraz works well)

1 orange, sliced

2 cinnamon sticks

4 cloves

3 star anise

2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)

60ml brandy (optional but adds a nice kick)

A pinch of nutmeg

Fresh cranberries (for garnish)

Method:

Pour the wine into a large saucepan and add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

Heat gently, making sure the wine doesn’t boil. You want it to simmer slowly to allow the spices to infuse.

Add the honey or sugar, stirring until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

Stir in the brandy, if using, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Simmer for about 20 minutes, then remove from the heat. Strain out the spices before serving.

Garnish with fresh cranberries or a cinnamon stick in each glass.

Pro tip: If you’re making mulled wine for a gathering, use a slow cooker to keep it warm throughout the evening.

2. Eggnog

Eggnog is a rich, creamy drink traditionally enjoyed during Christmas. Its comforting, velvety texture and the gentle warmth of nutmeg make it a festive favourite. While it’s more commonly associated with the US, it’s gaining popularity in the UK as well.

Ingredients:

500ml whole milk

250ml double cream

3 large eggs

100g caster sugar

100ml rum, brandy, or bourbon (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Grated nutmeg (for garnish)

Method:

Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy.

In a saucepan, gently heat the milk and cream over a low heat until warm (don’t let it boil).

Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Return the mixture to the pan and heat gently until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).

Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and alcohol, if using.

Chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavours meld.

Serve cold, with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg on top.

Pro tip: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum or brandy. You can also add a dash of vanilla syrup for extra sweetness.

3. Hot Chocolate with a Festive Twist

Nothing says cosy quite like a steaming mug of hot chocolate. But this isn’t your standard cocoa. We’re elevating it with Christmas spices and a dash of liqueur to bring some festive flair.

Ingredients:

500ml whole milk

100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped

1 tablespoon cocoa powder

1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

1 cinnamon stick

1 star anise

50ml Baileys, Amaretto, or spiced rum (optional)

Whipped cream and marshmallows (for topping)

Grated chocolate or a pinch of ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Method:

Heat the milk in a saucepan over low heat, then add the cinnamon stick and star anise to infuse the milk with festive flavours.

Once the milk is warm, remove the spices and stir in the chopped chocolate and cocoa powder until melted and smooth.

Add sugar to taste, if desired, and continue to stir until the hot chocolate is thick and creamy.

Remove from the heat and stir in your choice of liqueur, if using.

Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of grated chocolate or cinnamon.

Pro tip: For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk, and dark chocolate that doesn’t contain milk solids.

4. Spiced Apple Cider

If you prefer something lighter and non-alcoholic, spiced apple cider is a great choice. This drink is packed with the flavours of cinnamon, cloves, and apples, making it a wonderful alternative to mulled wine.

Ingredients:

1 litre apple juice or cider

1 orange, sliced

2 cinnamon sticks

5 cloves

2 star anise

1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

A pinch of ground ginger or allspice

Method:

In a large saucepan, combine the apple juice, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

Gently simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.

Stir in honey or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink, and add a pinch of ginger or allspice for extra warmth.

Strain the spices and orange slices before serving.

Serve warm in mugs, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise.

Pro tip: You can easily spike this drink with a shot of rum or brandy for an adult version.

5. Gingerbread Latte

A gingerbread latte is a warming treat that combines the rich flavours of coffee with the spices of gingerbread – perfect for a festive morning or as a cosy afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

1 shot of espresso (or strong coffee)

250ml milk (or dairy-free alternative)

1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup (you can buy this or make your own)

A pinch of ground cinnamon and ginger

Whipped cream (optional)

A gingerbread biscuit (for garnish)

Method:

Heat the milk in a saucepan or use a milk frother until steaming.

Add the gingerbread syrup and a pinch of cinnamon and ginger to the milk, stirring to combine.

Pour the espresso into a mug, then add the spiced milk mixture.

Top with whipped cream and garnish with a gingerbread biscuit on the side.

Pro tip: To make your own gingerbread syrup, simmer 100g brown sugar, 100ml water, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon for 5-10 minutes until thickened.

Whether you're hosting a Christmas gathering or simply enjoying a cosy night in by the fire, these festive drinks are sure to warm your heart and lift your spirits. Cheers to a warm and merry Christmas!

Brewing Your Own Wine, Beer, or Cider for Christmas: A Festive Guide Using Ready-Made Brewing Kits

Christmas is the season of festive indulgence, and what better way to add a personal touch to your festive celebrations than by brewing your own wine, beer, or cider? 

Not only is it a fun and rewarding activity, but homemade drinks can also be the perfect gift for friends and family or the centrepiece of your Christmas table. 

The best part is that you don’t need to be a seasoned brewer to create delicious drinks—ready-made brewing kits make the process simple, accessible, and enjoyable.

If you’re keen to give it a go, here’s a guide to brewing your own wine, beer, or cider for Christmas using ready-made kits.

1. Why Brew Your Own for Christmas?

Brewing your own drinks for Christmas offers several benefits:

Personal Touch: There’s something special about serving homemade beverages at your Christmas gathering. Whether it’s a mulled wine you’ve brewed yourself or a crisp apple cider, it adds a touch of personal pride to the festivities.

Cost-Effective: Buying bottles of wine, beer, or cider for Christmas parties and family meals can be expensive. Brewing your own allows you to create large quantities at a fraction of the cost, perfect for those hosting big gatherings or wanting to give homemade drinks as gifts.

Creative Control: With a ready-made brewing kit, you have control over the flavours and style of your drink. You can experiment with different types of fruit, spices, and other ingredients to create a unique brew that suits your tastes or adds a festive twist.

2. Choosing Your Brewing Kit

There are several types of brewing kits available depending on what you want to make. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:

Wine Kits: Ready-made wine kits provide everything you need to produce your own wine, usually in around four to six weeks. These kits typically come with grape juice concentrate, yeast, and instructions. You can find kits that make reds, whites, or rosés, and even speciality wines like sparkling or mulled varieties. Some Christmas-themed kits might include ingredients for spiced wine, perfect for the season.

Beer Kits: Beer brewing kits are ideal for anyone who loves craft beer. These kits usually come with malt extract, yeast, and hops, and they guide you through the process of fermenting and bottling your brew. Many kits allow you to choose between different styles such as pale ales, stouts, or lagers. For Christmas, you might consider a kit that offers festive flavours, like a spiced ale or winter warmer.

Cider Kits: If you prefer something a little lighter, cider brewing kits are a great choice. They often come with apple concentrate, yeast, and all the equipment you’ll need to produce a delicious cider. Cider kits are relatively easy to use and can be flavoured with spices like cinnamon and cloves to create a festive drink.

When choosing a kit, make sure to select one that matches your experience level. Most kits are designed for beginners, but some might offer more advanced options for those with brewing experience.

3. The Brewing Process: Step by Step

While each type of brewing kit will have its own specific instructions, the basic process for making wine, beer, or cider at home is generally the same. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start brewing, make sure you’ve read through all the instructions included with your kit. Clean and sterilise all of your equipment thoroughly—this is one of the most important steps to avoid contamination and ensure your brew turns out just right.

Step 2: Mixing Ingredients

Once your equipment is prepared, it’s time to mix the ingredients. For wine, this typically involves mixing the grape concentrate with water, adding yeast, and perhaps some additional sugars or flavourings. Beer kits will have you mix the malt extract with water and add hops for flavour, while cider kits involve mixing apple concentrate with water and yeast.

Step 3: Fermentation

After mixing your ingredients, the fermentation process begins. This is where the magic happens, as the yeast converts sugars into alcohol. For wine, fermentation can take anywhere from two to six weeks depending on the type of wine you’re making. Beer typically ferments for one to two weeks, while cider might take about one to three weeks.

During this time, you’ll want to keep the brew in a cool, dark place, away from any disturbances. Many kits come with airlocks to let gases escape while keeping air out, so it’s important to monitor this part of the process closely.

Step 4: Bottling

Once fermentation is complete, it’s time to bottle your brew. You’ll need to transfer the liquid into bottles, being careful to avoid any sediment at the bottom of your fermenter. Some kits include bottling equipment, while others may require you to purchase it separately.

For beer and cider, you’ll usually add a small amount of sugar to the bottles before sealing them. This creates a secondary fermentation in the bottle, adding fizz to your drink. Wine, on the other hand, is usually bottled and stored to mature, though you can drink it soon after bottling if you’re eager to sample your creation.

Step 5: Ageing and Enjoying

The final step is ageing your brew. Wine typically benefits from being aged for a few weeks to several months to develop its full flavour. Beer and cider can also be aged for a few weeks to improve taste and carbonation. However, if you’re on a tight timeline, you can enjoy your drinks as soon as they’re ready.

Once aged, your homemade wine, beer, or cider will be ready to serve at Christmas parties, family dinners, or to give as thoughtful, handcrafted gifts.

4. Festive Twists on Your Brews

To make your homemade drinks even more festive, consider adding some Christmas-themed flavours to your brew:

Spiced Wine: Add cloves, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and a touch of orange peel to your wine during fermentation to create a warming mulled wine that’s perfect for Christmas.

Christmas Ale: Brew a beer with winter spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg for a festive twist. You could also add some dried fruit or a splash of honey for a sweet, warming ale.

Mulled Cider: Spice up your cider by adding mulling spices like allspice, cinnamon, and cloves. For an extra festive touch, you could also add a dash of vanilla or caramel essence.

5. Brewing Kits: A Perfect Gift Idea

Ready-made brewing kits also make fantastic gifts for the beer, wine, or cider enthusiast in your life. They offer a fun, hands-on experience, and the recipient gets to enjoy the fruits of their labour—literally! Whether it’s a beer brewing kit for a budding homebrewer or a cider kit for someone who loves trying new flavours, it’s a unique and thoughtful gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

Brewing your own wine, beer, or cider for Christmas is a wonderful way to personalise your festive celebrations and create something truly special. With ready-made brewing kits, the process is simple and enjoyable, allowing even beginners to produce delicious drinks to share with family and friends.

 Whether you’re brewing to serve at your Christmas feast or to give as homemade gifts, the experience of crafting your own festive drinks will add an extra layer of joy to the season.

So, why not try your hand at brewing this Christmas? Raise a glass of your homemade creation and toast to a festive season full of creativity and cheer!

Brew Genie offers a wide range of brew kits and equipment by mail or from their retail premises: https://www.brewgenie.co.uk

How to Make Wines for Christmas Using Wine Kits: A Festive Guide

The Christmas season brings with it a host of traditions, and for many, Christmas just isn't the same without a good bottle of wine (or several!) to share with loved ones. While the thought of creating your own wine might seem like a daunting task, wine kits have made the process far more accessible and easier.

If you're keen on adding a personal touch to your Christmas celebrations, making your own wine is a fun and rewarding project. Here’s how to get started with a wine kit to create delightful wines just in time for Christmas.

Why Use a Wine Kit?

Wine kits are an excellent option for both beginners and experienced winemakers. They provide you with all the ingredients and instructions you need to create high-quality wines without needing access to vineyards or advanced equipment. With the right kit and a bit of time, you can produce wines that complement your Christmas meals perfectly—whether you're looking for a rich red to pair with turkey or a sweet dessert wine to enjoy by the fire.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Christmas Wines

1. Choose the Right Kit

Selecting the right kit is the first step to success. Wine kits are typically available in a wide variety of styles, including red, white, and rosé wines, as well as speciality types like port and sparkling wines. Think about the kind of wine you want to serve for Christmas. Are you after a bold red, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, or something lighter, like a crisp Chardonnay? Some wine kits even offer blends that mimic traditional holiday favourites.

Top Christmas Kit Recommendations:

Red Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz

White Wine: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling

Speciality Wine: Port, Mulled Wine

2. Get the Right Equipment

Although wine kits come with all the necessary ingredients, you’ll need a few pieces of basic equipment:

Fermenter (a large vessel where the wine ferments, or a demijohn)

Airlock and Bung (to allow gases to escape while keeping oxygen out)

Hydrometer (to measure the wine’s progress. Not essential, however)

Siphon (for transferring liquid)

Bottles and Corks (for storing the finished wine)

If you don’t already have these items, many suppliers offer complete wine-making starter kits, which include both ingredients and equipment.

3. Sanitise Everything

This step is crucial. Cleanliness is essential to prevent any unwanted bacteria or yeast from spoiling your wine. Make sure to thoroughly sanitise all your equipment, including the fermenter, spoons, siphon, and bottles. Most kits will include a sanitiser or provide recommendations on which product to use. Follow the instructions carefully, as even a small amount of contamination can affect the final taste.

4. Follow the Instructions

Wine kits come with detailed instructions tailored to the specific wine you’re making. The basic process involves mixing the wine concentrate with water, adding any additional ingredients like yeast or flavour packs, and allowing the mixture to ferment over a set period.

Here’s an outline of the key stages:

Primary Fermentation: Mix the wine concentrate with water and other ingredients (as per your kit’s instructions) in the fermenter. After sealing with an airlock, allow the mixture to ferment for 7–10 days.

Secondary Fermentation: Transfer the wine into a secondary fermenter using a siphon to avoid sediment, and let it ferment for several weeks. During this time, the wine will clear as the yeast finishes its job.

Stabilising and Clearing: Add any stabilisers or fining agents provided in the kit. This helps stop fermentation and ensures that your wine is clear and sediment-free.

Bottling: After your wine has cleared, it’s time to bottle. Use a siphon to carefully transfer the wine from the fermenter into clean bottles. Cork them securely and store the bottles in a cool, dark place.

5. Let it Age

Patience is key when it comes to wine making. While some kits offer wines that are drinkable within 4-6 weeks, many improve significantly with age. If you're planning for Christmas, it’s best to start in early autumn to give your wine ample time to mature. Even after bottling, allowing the wine to age for a few months can improve its depth and flavour, resulting in a richer and more complex wine just in time for the holidays.

6. Consider Customisation

Once you've mastered the basics, why not add a festive touch to your wine? You can infuse your wine with Christmas spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg, or create a mulled wine using your homemade vintage. Simply heat the wine gently with your chosen spices, a bit of sugar, and perhaps a splash of brandy or orange liqueur. Serve warm for a cosy Christmas evening treat.

Tips for Success

Start Early: If you're planning to serve your wine for Christmas, begin the process as early as possible. Wine needs time to ferment, clear, and age properly.

Monitor Temperature: Ensure that the wine ferments at the temperature recommended in your kit’s instructions. Fermentation that’s too hot or too cold can affect the flavour.

Experiment: Once you feel confident, you can start experimenting with different kits, blending flavours, or even adjusting sweetness levels to suit your taste.

Why Home-Made Wine Makes a Perfect Christmas Gift

One of the best things about making your own wine is that it can double as a thoughtful, personal Christmas gift. A bottle of homemade wine, beautifully wrapped with a handwritten label, makes for a special gift that shows you’ve put time and effort into crafting something unique. Whether it’s for family, friends, or colleagues, your homemade wine will be a lovely addition to their Christmas celebrations.

Final Thoughts

Making your own wine for Christmas using a wine kit is a fantastic way to get into the festive spirit. Not only does it allow you to customise the flavours and create something truly special, but it also adds a personal touch to your Christmas gatherings. With the right kit, some patience, and a bit of creativity, you’ll have a delicious homemade wine to enjoy throughout the holiday season. Cheers to a merry Christmas filled with warmth, good company, and fantastic wine!

An excellent supplier of all things brewing (wine, beer, cider, equipment, etc) are our friends at Brew Genie, who offer a first rate mail order service. They aren't sponsoring us but we have just finished a very tasty bottle of Merlot made with one of the wine kits they sold us, so a shout out to Brew Genie!

We are laying down Brew Genie sourced beers and wines for Christmas and are making more wines as we speak!

https://www.brewgenie.co.uk

The Perfect Beer Pairings for Every Course of a Traditional Christmas Meal

The festive season brings not only joy and togetherness but also a feast to remember. 

While wine is often the go-to pairing for Christmas meals, beer offers a delightful and versatile alternative that complements each course beautifully. 

From rich roasts to indulgent desserts, the right beer can enhance every bite. Here’s a guide to pairing beer with a traditional Christmas meal, ensuring your celebration is as flavourful as it is festive.

Starters: Light and Zesty

Christmas dinner often kicks off with lighter dishes, perhaps a smoked salmon canapé, a prawn cocktail, or even a creamy soup. These starters require a beer that’s crisp and refreshing to cleanse the palate, without overwhelming the delicate flavours of the food.

Beer Pairing: Pilsner or Wheat Beer

A pilsner, with its clean, slightly hoppy finish, is the perfect match for lighter starters. Its effervescence works well with seafood, cutting through any oiliness. Alternatively, a wheat beer, with its fruity and slightly spicy notes, can complement the subtlety of a creamy soup or vegetable-based dishes. Both styles add a refreshing brightness that prepares the palate for the heartier dishes to come.

Main Course: Rich and Robust

The star of the Christmas table is typically a roast—whether it’s turkey, goose, or beef, served alongside rich trimmings like stuffing, roast potatoes, and gravy. For this course, you’ll want a beer with depth, one that can stand up to the robust flavours and textures of the traditional Christmas roast.

Beer Pairing: English Bitter or Belgian Dubbel

An English bitter, with its malty backbone and slight bitterness, is a fantastic choice for roast meats. It complements the savoury flavours of the meal while its moderate strength keeps the pairing balanced. A Belgian dubbel, with its caramel, dark fruit, and slight spice notes, offers a richer alternative, particularly for roasted beef or goose. The dubbel’s sweetness cuts through the richness of the meat, enhancing the flavours of the sides like cranberry sauce or spiced stuffing.

Vegetarian or Vegan Mains: Complex and Balanced

If your main course is a vegetarian wellington, nut roast, or a plant-based feast, the beer pairing needs to enhance the earthy, wholesome flavours of the dish.

Beer Pairing: Amber Ale or Saison

An amber ale, with its toasty malt profile and gentle bitterness, complements the nutty, umami flavours of vegetarian mains. For more adventurous palates, a saison brings peppery, fruity, and earthy notes that can elevate dishes featuring mushrooms, nuts, and roasted vegetables. Its light effervescence also helps balance the richness of sauces or gravies often served with vegan dishes. Incidentally you should source vegan beers for pairing with vegan foods.

Pudding: Sweet and Decadent

Christmas pudding, mince pies, and other festive desserts call for something indulgent yet balanced. You’ll want a beer that can either match the sweetness of the dessert or cut through it with a complementary contrast.

Beer Pairing: Imperial Stout or Barleywine

For a truly indulgent finish, an imperial stout with its rich, roasted malt character and notes of chocolate, coffee, and dried fruits is ideal for pairing with Christmas pudding or mince pies. The stout’s creamy texture mirrors the richness of the dessert while the roasted bitterness prevents it from becoming too sweet. Alternatively, a barleywine, with its intense malt sweetness and high alcohol content, can serve as a dessert on its own or as a companion to fruit cakes and puddings. Its complex flavours of toffee, caramel, and dried fruit create a harmonious match with the spiced and fruity Christmas sweets.

Cheese Course: Bold and Balanced

If you’re serving a cheese board after the main meal, consider a beer that can cut through the richness of creamy cheeses while standing up to the strength of blue varieties.

Beer Pairing: Belgian Tripel or Porter

A Belgian tripel, with its fruity esters, subtle spice, and effervescence, pairs wonderfully with hard cheeses like Cheddar or Comté, while its sweetness complements blue cheese without overpowering it. For creamier, buttery cheeses like Brie or Camembert, a porter’s roasted malt and subtle chocolate notes provide a delightful contrast, adding depth without overwhelming the cheese’s mild flavour.

Conclusion: A Festive Toast to Beer

This Christmas, consider swapping out the wine and raising a glass of carefully selected beer with each course. Beer’s vast range of flavours, from light and crisp to dark and intense, offers the perfect pairing for every dish on your festive table. Whether you prefer traditional British ales or more adventurous Belgian brews, there’s a beer to suit every palate and enhance the joys of the Christmas feast.

Cheers to a merry Christmas filled with good food, great company, and, of course, exceptional beer!

Record demand predicted for no and low drinks this Christmas at Tesco

It's reported shoppers are ready to create record demands for no and low alcohol beer, wines and spirits over Christmas.

That’s the prediction from Tesco after the supermarket saw its strongest ever sales in 2023 with high demand sustained across the entire year.

Demand for no and low alcohol beer at the supermarket this year has soared by over 20%, while sales of no/low wine rose by almost 15% per and demand for alternatives to spirits grew by nearly 10% per.

To give some indication of how strong the thirst for no and low drinks has been throughout this year, during the first three weeks of the June heatwave, demand at Tesco was over 25% higher than it was for the first three weeks of Dry January.

Another massive success has been pop star Kylie Minogue’s 0% Sparkling Rosé which launched in Tesco last year and which has now become the UK’s top selling premium no alcohol wine

As a result, Tesco prepared itself for its strongest ever demand in December and ordered in extra stock.

Tesco says that the main reasons for the no and low alcohol boom are:

New found shopper confidence in the quality of the drinks, often driven by recommendations from family and friends

Greater interest in health and moderation

An increase in product choice

Ease of selection in its stores with all products sitting in their own fixture

Tesco no and low alcohol wine buyer Joe Olding said: “Based on the massive demand throughout the year we're anticipating this festive season to not only be bigger than this year's Dry January, but to be the biggest Christmas ever for no and low drinks.

“A few years ago no and low alcohol drinks might have been a consideration to have on hand for special occasions but, as our latest sales data, shows they’ve become mainstream and are now popular all year round.

“We’ve also made it easier for customers to find no and low alcohol drinks as they all sit alongside each in the same aisle.”

Among the top brands driving the no and low boom are Lucky Saint, Athletic Brewing and Guinness 0% in beer; Gordons 0% Alcohol Free Gin and the Clean Co brand in spirits; and Nozeco, Not Guilty and Kylie 0% Sparkling Rosé in wine.

The rise in demand for Kylie Minogue’s no alcohol wine has been spectacular with demand rocketing throughout the year with one million bottles sold across all UK retailers.

The drink uses a unique filtration process in order to make it less sweet and retain more of the original wine taste but without any of the alcohol.

Kylie Minogue said: “When we launched our 0% Sparkling Rosé last year we knew health and wellbeing was becoming more and more important in people’s lives and so many of us are leaning toward more self-care.”

Drinkaware, an independent UK alcohol education charity which helps people make better choices about their drinking was happy to hear the news.

Karen Tyrell, CEO of the charity Drinkaware said: “It’s good people across Britain are more open to trying no and low alcohol drinks this year. 

“Drinking lower strength and alcohol-free products can be a helpful way for people to moderate their drinking and stay within the low-risk guidelines of 14 units a week. If you are unsure about how much you’re drinking, take our simple Drinking Check on the Drinkaware website."

www.tesco.com

Christmas Drinks & Gifts: Salcombe Brewery's Christmas Tide and NEW Christmas Pub in a Box

The Salcombe Brewery Co. is absolutely delighted to announce the return of its hugely popular seasonal beer Christmas Tide (ABV 4.8%), which will be available from this month onward in 500ml bottles (8 x 500ml bottles RRP £19.50) from retail outlets, including the brewery shop and online for nationwide delivery from www.salcombebrewery.com.

Christmas Tide (ABV 4.8%) is a very special limited edition yuletide ale. It's a well-structured, malt-driven beer which will be available to be enjoyed throughout the festive season. The crystal, chocolate and wheat malts bring warmth and body to the beer, making it perfect for a winter's day. The plethora of hops build on the chocolatey malt base and add a bittersweet finish to this Christmas ale.

Christmas Tide is the perfect beer to get everyone into the festive spirit and if you're looking for gift ideas, the Christmas Tide Gift Pack, complete with two bottles of beer and a branded pint glass, makes the ideal stocking-filler (Gift Pack 2 x 500ml, 1 x branded pint glass £8.00 from the brewery's online shop.

New for this year, Christmas Tide will also be available in a Christmas Pub in a Box which is packed with beer, mats, glasses and tasty snacks, perfect for a festive night in! The box contains:

4 x 500ml bottles of our Christmas Tide beer (4.8% abv)

2x Salcombe Brewery branded 1/2 pint glasses

2 x Salcombe Brewery branded bar towels

6 x Salcombe Brewery beer mats

1 x Burts crisps

1 x The Dormen peanuts

The Christmas Pub in a Box will be available from late October priced £22.00 from the brewery's online shop.

For the full range of Salcombe Brewery Co. festive gifts visit www.salcombebrewery.com.

Over the next few months That's Christmas will come out of hibernation

Yes, over the next few months That's Christmas will come out of hibernation and we will be bringing our readers all the latest news on Christmas gifting ideas, plus how to source items for delightful homemade Christmas gifts and trinkets.

That's Christmas will also be carrying news and features on Christmas season foods and drinks, plus Christmas-related foods and special seasonal drinks.

So please, watch this space!

And if you have news of a Christmas-related product or service that you would like to share with our readers, please email us at afj_uk@yahoo.com

Aldi for Christmas

Over the next several days, That's Christmas and sister site That's Food and Drink will be writing articles about the special seasonal foods and drinks (including speciality spirits, liquors, wines and beers) that are available from Aldi.

The quality is far higher than some 'nationally known' food brands and all at far keener prices, too.

Please keep an eye out for these articles. Because they'll tell you how with Aldi you will be able to host the perfect Chirstmas and New year and all at prices that you might think went out of fashion, years ago!

Shepherd Neame Christmas Ale

Shepherd Neame Christmas Ale is a 7% abv glowing amber ale with a heady, fruity nose. It’s the perfect accompaniment to traditional Christmas fare and makes an ideal stocking filler. The crystallised fruits and festive spices complement the rich, indulgent food enjoyed during the Christmas period.

 

Renowned beer writer Ben McFarland describes Christmas Ale: “There’s a spicy signature to this incredibly complex cockle-warming winter ale. The nose is reminiscent of raisins, dates and molasses while the palate is vinous with tannin-like notes of leather, vanilla, apricots and a hint of rustic Armagnac on the finish. An awesome after-dinner drop.”

 

The 500ml bottles will be available from supermarkets, good independent stockists and online at www.shepherdneame.co.uk/shop.