The Best Spices and Ingredients for the Ultimate Christmas Hot Chocolate

When the festive season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of hot chocolate. 

But why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your drink into a decadent Christmas masterpiece? 

With the right blend of spices and ingredients, you can create a hot chocolate that embodies the warmth, joy, and magic of the season. 

Here are the best additions to make your Christmas hot chocolate unforgettable.

1. Rich, High-Quality Chocolate

The foundation of any great hot chocolate is, of course, the chocolate. Opt for high-quality dark or milk chocolate bars with at least 60% cocoa content. If you prefer a sweeter drink, choose a creamy milk chocolate, or mix both for a balanced flavour. Avoid pre-packaged powders when possible, as they often lack depth and richness.

2. Velvety Milk Base

Your choice of milk can dramatically influence the texture and taste of your hot chocolate. Whole milk creates a creamy base, but you can also use plant-based options like oat milk for a slightly nutty undertone or almond milk for a lighter alternative. For extra indulgence, add a splash of double cream.

3. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the quintessential Christmas spice, adding a warm and sweet aroma to your drink. Stir a cinnamon stick into your hot chocolate as it simmers or sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for a festive touch.

4. Nutmeg

Freshly grated nutmeg lends a subtle, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Be sparing with this spice, as a little goes a long way.

5. Cloves

For a hint of spiced depth, add a pinch of ground cloves or steep a few whole cloves in your milk while heating. This spice is particularly delightful when paired with cinnamon and nutmeg.

6. Ginger

Adds the flavour of gingerbread men to your festive hot chocolate, with a touch of gentle heat.

7. Vanilla Extract

A dash of pure vanilla extract enhances the chocolate’s natural sweetness and adds a layer of comforting flavour. For an extra-special touch, use vanilla bean paste or steep a vanilla pod in your milk.

8. Peppermint

Nothing says Christmas quite like peppermint. Add a drop or two of peppermint extract to your hot chocolate for a refreshing twist, or garnish with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch.

9. Orange Zest

For a citrusy twist, grate a bit of orange zest into your hot chocolate. The bright, tangy flavour complements the richness of the chocolate and gives your drink a cheerful lift.

10. Star Anise

Star anise brings a mild licorice-like flavour that’s both unique and festive. Use it sparingly, as its flavour can be overpowering. Add a whole star anise to your milk while it heats and remove it before serving.

11. Salt

A pinch of sea salt might seem unconventional, but it enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and balances the overall flavour. Use flaky sea salt for a touch of sophistication.

12. Sweeteners

If you need to sweeten your hot chocolate, opt for natural options like honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar. These add a depth of flavour that refined white sugar lacks.

13. Alcoholic Additions

For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or spiced rum. These liqueurs complement the chocolate’s richness and add a festive kick.

14. Whipped Cream and Toppings

No Christmas hot chocolate is complete without a generous dollop of whipped cream. Top with marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. For an extra-special touch, drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the top.

15. Spiced Syrups

Infused syrups, such as gingerbread or chai, can add layers of festive flavour to your hot chocolate. Simply stir a spoonful into your drink before serving.

The Perfect Recipe: Christmas Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

500ml whole milk (or your preferred alternative)

100g high-quality dark chocolate, chopped

50g milk chocolate, chopped

1 cinnamon stick

A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

1-2 whole cloves

½ tsp vanilla extract

Optional: a pinch of sea salt, orange zest, or a splash of liqueur

Whipped cream and toppings of your choice

Instructions:

In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm (but not boiling).

Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg, and let them steep for 2-3 minutes.

Remove the spices and whisk in the chopped chocolate until fully melted and smooth.

Stir in the vanilla extract, sea salt, and any optional ingredients.

Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream and your favourite toppings, and enjoy!

This Christmas, transform your hot chocolate into a luxurious treat that will warm your heart and soul. With these spices and ingredients, you’ll create a drink so good, it might just become a new holiday tradition.

How Your Christmas Dinner Could Be Contributing to Fine Lines and Wrinkles

We all love Christmas dinner. It’s a feast fit for royalty: Turkey with all the trimmings, mince pies, and, of course, a cheeky glass (or three) of mulled wine. 

But are you aware your festive favourites could be sneakily ageing your skin? That’s right, while your taste buds are celebrating, your skin might be paying the price. 

But don’t panic. We’re not here to be Scrooge about Christmas. But if you’ve been wondering why fine lines and wrinkles seem to pop up faster than Aunt Mary’s questionable Christmas jokes, we’ve got answers.

The Sugar Skin Saga

Let’s start with the sweet stuff. Christmas pud, chocolate boxes, and endless dessert spreads are all part of the festive fun. But sugar has a dark side. It triggers a process called glycation, where sugar molecules latch onto proteins in your skin like an unwanted guest. The result? Collagen and elastin—your skin’s natural scaffolding—get stiff and brittle. Goodbye, bounce. Hello, wrinkles.

Dr. Laura Geige, Senior Aesthetic Expert at It’s Me and You Aesthetic Clinic, explains: “Excess sugar can speed up skin ageing by damaging collagen and elastin. These are the proteins that keep your skin firm and smooth. The good news? Reducing sugar intake and using collagen-boosting skincare can help minimise the effects.”

Swap out sugar where you can. Try fruit platters instead of cake, or dark chocolate instead of milk. Your skin will thank you—plus, you’ll feel a little less like the Christmas pudding itself.

Alcohol: Festive Cheer or Skin’s Worst Nightmare?

A Christmas without booze is like a cracker without a bang, right? But alcohol dehydrates your skin faster than you can say “cheers.” 

Dehydration leaves your skin looking dull, tired, and more prone to fine lines. And let’s not forget the sugar content in those festive cocktails—talk about a double whammy!

Dr. Rimas Geiga, Senior Medical Expert at the clinic warns: “Alcohol doesn’t just dry out your skin; it also inflames it, too. This can break down collagen over time, leading to sagging and fine lines. Balancing alcohol with water and hydrating skincare can help counteract its effects.”

For every glass of wine, have a glass of water. Better yet, swap the cocktails for mocktails. Trust us, your skin (and your liver) will love you for it.

Too Much Salt: The Wrinkle Culprit You Didn’t See Coming

Those crisps, stuffing, and pigs in blankets might taste heavenly, but they’re loaded with salt. Salt makes your body retain water, which sounds good… until you realise it shows up as puffiness under your eyes and bloating in your face. Not the festive glow you were going for, is it?

Dr. Snieguole Geige, Medical Director at the clinic advises: “Salt dehydrates your body, which can lead to swollen, puffy skin. Over time, dehydration also affects elasticity, making fine lines more noticeable. Keeping hydrated and using products with hyaluronic acid can help maintain a plump, youthful look.”

Cut back on salty snacks and load up on potassium-rich foods such as bananas and spinach. They help counteract the effects of sodium in your diet.

Stress Eating: A Recipe for Wrinkles

The festive season is joyful, but it’s also stressful—shopping sprees, family feuds, and endless to-do lists. Stress causes your body to release cortisol, a hormone that breaks down collagen and accelerates ageing. And what do we do when we’re stressed? We eat. Usually, the wrong things, unfortunately.

Birute Sutkiene a Marketing Lead at the clinic says: “Stress eating is common during Christmas. Unfortunately, it often involves sugary or salty foods, which only compound skin issues. Managing stress is key—not just for your skin but for your overall health.” 

Swap stress eating for stress-busting. Try a brisk winter walk, meditation, or even belting out Last Christmas in the shower.

Bounce Back with Smart Skin Solutions

Worried your Christmas dinner is showing up on your face? Don’t fret. You don’t have to ditch the mince pies and prosecco completely. But balance is key—and so is looking after your skin. Dr. Laura Geige suggests: “Investing in treatments like hydrating facials or dermal fillers can help combat the visible effects of diet-related ageing. They work to plump, smooth, and restore your skin’s youthful glow, even after the indulgences of Christmas.”

That's Christmas would like to thank Dr. Laura Geige, Senior Aesthetic Expert at It’s Me and You Aesthetic Clinic and her colleagues for helping with blogpost.

You can learn more here:- https://itsmeandyou.co.uk

Spark Your Christmas with Tenzing Energy Drinks: 100% Natural Energy Boost

The Christmas and New Year period is one of the most magical times of the year, filled with festive gatherings, twinkling lights, and endless celebrations. 

But let’s face it – the whirlwind of shopping, cooking, and late-night parties can leave even the most energetic among us feeling a little drained, somewhat enervated.

Enter Tenzing Energy Drinks: your ultimate companion for a natural, tasty, and guilt-free energy boost that keeps you sparkling throughout the Chirstmas and New Year season.

Why Choose Tenzing?

Tenzing isn’t just another energy drink. It’s a game-changer for anyone seeking clean, plant-based energy without compromising on taste or sustainability. Inspired by the energy-boosting brews of Sherpas in the Himalayas, Tenzing is crafted with 100% natural ingredients, making it a refreshing alternative to artificial, sugar-laden drinks. Here’s what makes Tenzing stand out:

Plant Power: Packed with natural caffeine from green coffee, magnesium from seawater, ginger, green tea, pines, Lion's Mane, Tenzing provides a balanced energy lift without the jitters.

Zero Nasties: Free from artificial flavours, sweeteners, and preservatives, it’s as pure as the season’s first snowfall.

Eco-Friendly: Tenzing is a carbon-negative company, ensuring that every can you enjoy is a step towards a greener planet.

The Perfect Pick-Me-Up for the Festive Rush

Whether you’re braving the bustling high streets or dancing the night away at New Year’s Eve parties, Tenzing has your back. Its natural blend provides a refreshing burst of flavour that keeps you energised and hydrated. The gentle fizz adds a celebratory sparkle, making it the ideal drink for toasting to the season.

How to Incorporate Tenzing into Your Festivities 

Morning Boost: Start your day with a can of Tenzing to shake off the winter sluggishness and power through your to-do list.

Party Refresher: Swap sugary mixers for Tenzing to create delicious, low-calorie cocktails that keep the good vibes flowing.

Post-Party Revival: Feeling the aftereffects of too much mulled wine? Tenzing’s natural electrolytes and antioxidants will help you rehydrate and recharge.

A Taste for Every Occasion

Tenzing comes in a variety of flavours. (I like the Fiery Mango Flavour!) Each sip is a celebration of natural goodness, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your festive table.

Wrap Up the Year with Tenzing

As you juggle the joys and demands of the season, let Tenzing be your secret weapon for staying energised and present. With its sparkling taste, natural ingredients, and eco-conscious ethos, it’s the ultimate drink to keep you shining bright from Christmas morning to the countdown on New Year’s Eve.

So, why not make Tenzing part of your festive tradition? Raise a can, toast to the moment, and enjoy the Chirstmas and New Year break with a 100% natural energy boost that’s as uplifting as the season itself.

Mind you, for those of us with busy lifestyles 24/7/365 Tenzing will always be there for us!

https://tenzingnaturalenergy.com

Indulge in the Ultimate Christmas Treat: The Artisanal Hot Chocolate Set

As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming mug of rich, velvety hot chocolate. 

This Christmas, why not elevate the classic treat with an artisanal hot chocolate set, designed to bring joy and warmth to every chocolate lover’s heart? 

Whether you're treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift, an artisanal hot chocolate set offers an indulgent experience that goes far beyond the ordinary. Here's why it's the ideal present for the festive season.

The Perfect Gift for Chocolate Lovers

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a well-crafted artisanal hot chocolate set is the ultimate way to satisfy their sweet tooth. Unlike the instant powders or mass-produced mixes found on supermarket shelves, artisanal hot chocolate sets feature premium, high-quality cocoa or drinking chocolate, making each cup a luxurious experience. The rich flavours of single-origin cocoa beans, blended with carefully selected ingredients, create a hot chocolate that’s smooth, decadent, and packed with depth.

What’s Inside an Artisanal Hot Chocolate Set?

A thoughtful artisanal hot chocolate set typically includes three key components that make for a perfect indulgence:

High-Quality Cocoa or Drinking Chocolate

The heart of any great hot chocolate is the cocoa. Artisanal sets often feature finely ground cocoa powder or rich drinking chocolate, sometimes in the form of thick, high-cocoa chocolate blocks that melt into a creamy drink. Look for sets that use single-origin cocoa beans, as they offer unique and complex flavour profiles, ranging from fruity and floral to nutty and earthy. This ensures that each sip is a gourmet experience.

Marshmallows

No hot chocolate is complete without the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of marshmallows. Artisanal marshmallows are often crafted with care, using natural ingredients like vanilla, honey, or even toasted coconut. These handmade treats can be the perfect complement to the rich cocoa, adding a sweet and airy texture that enhances the overall experience. Some sets even include flavoured marshmallows, such as salted caramel or spiced cinnamon, for a unique twist on the traditional.

A Beautiful Mug

The final touch to any hot chocolate experience is the mug. A beautifully designed mug makes the indulgence feel even more special. Many artisanal sets come with a hand-crafted mug, often ceramic or stoneware, that’s perfect for holding a generous serving of your hot chocolate. Whether it's a rustic design or a more modern, minimalist style, a well-chosen mug adds to the experience, making each sip feel like a moment of pure joy.

Why Choose an Artisanal Hot Chocolate Set?

An artisanal hot chocolate set isn’t just about enjoying a delicious drink—it’s about creating a moment of relaxation and indulgence. The attention to detail in the selection of high-quality ingredients, paired with the charm of a hand-crafted mug, transforms an everyday beverage into a comforting ritual. Plus, when you gift an artisanal hot chocolate set, you’re giving something that feels personal and thoughtful. It’s a perfect present for anyone who loves chocolate, whether they’re a connoisseur of fine cocoa or simply someone who enjoys a sweet, warming treat on a cold winter’s day.

How to Enjoy Your Artisanal Hot Chocolate

To get the most out of your artisanal hot chocolate set, follow these simple steps:

Heat the Milk: For the creamiest hot chocolate, use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like oat milk. Heat it gently in a saucepan, being careful not to bring it to a boil.

Melt the Chocolate: If your set includes drinking chocolate blocks, break them into pieces and add them to the hot milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

Add Marshmallows: Drop a few marshmallows into your mug, allowing them to soften and float on top of the rich chocolate drink.

Enjoy: Sip slowly and savour the deep, indulgent flavours of the cocoa, paired with the sweet, melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows. Perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying with loved ones during the holiday season.

The Gift of Warmth and Comfort

An artisanal hot chocolate set is more than just a gift—it’s an experience. It’s the joy of sipping something truly delicious while feeling the warmth spread through your body. This Christmas, give the gift of indulgence, comfort, and a little extra sweetness. Whether you're treating yourself or delighting someone special, an artisanal hot chocolate set is the perfect way to make this festive season even more magical.

So, curl up by the fire, unwrap your hot chocolate set, and let the Christmas spirit melt your worries away—one luxurious sip at a time.

You can buy such hot chocolate sets from delicatessens, department stores, Amazon, Hotel Chocolat, Knoops and Cocoba.

Jamu Wild Water Brings you Healthier Hydration From the Inside Out

Crush your health goals this Christmas and the following year with Jamu Wild Waters, the thirst quenching soft drinks that will help you reach your wellness potential. Vital at this time of year, especially keeping ourselves healthily hydrated.

What could be better than boosting your health whilst you are also hydrating your body? 

The perfect alternative to traditional sugar-laden fizzy drinks, and overly sweet juices, Jamu Wild Waters are the breath of fresh air you’ve been looking for. A grown up soft drink that will actually do you good!

100% natural, with no added sugars, Jamu Wild Waters will make it easy to hit your health goals with every sip. 

Boasting antioxidants, prebiotic fibre and natural, gut-friendly ingredients, these delicious drinks are also low calorie and contain nothing artificial, so making them your new go-to choice for refreshment.

Jamu Wild Water was born from a love of natural ingredients and a desire to create a product that not only offers healthier hydration, but also harnesses the power of plants to actively nourish. They are available in three delicious, all-natural flavours that support the gut, boost immunity and restore wellbeing in a mouthwatering sparkling water that's bursting with botanicals. 

Sparkling Raspberry combines antioxidant-rich elderberry and soothing mallow root with prebiotic fibre.

Sparkling Blood Orange mixes rosemary extract and immune boosting echinacea with prebiotic fibre. 

Sparkling Lemon boasts vitamin-rich nettle and dandelion extracts with prebiotic fibre.

These tasty gut-friendly drinks support the trillions of friendly microbes within our digestive system and pay tribute to the diverse botanicals that thrive in the UK. Each 250ml serve contains 5g of prebiotic fibre in the form of chicory root inulin, making up 100% of your daily prebiotic requirement. Inulin feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut and allows them to flourish. Jamu Wild Water is also vegan.

Alongside the raft of healthy credentials, Jamu has also partnered with The Outward Bound Trust, to support the mental and physical wellbeing of young people by helping them to connect with the natural world, and find joy outdoors. Every drop of Jamu Wild Water is a celebration of nature and a commitment to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Jamu Wild Water is available in 250ml cans, RRP £2 a can from https://jamuwildwater.co.uk/

Celebrating the Continuing Success of the "That's Christmas" Blog

As the festive season draws nearer, everyone begins to search for the perfect gifts, delicious treats, and unique experiences to make Christmas truly special. 

In this whirlwind of preparation, one blog has consistently stood out, guiding its readers through the joys of Christmas shopping and festive indulgence: That’s Christmas.

A Beacon of Festive Cheer

Since its inception, That’s Christmas has carved out a niche for itself as the go-to source for all things Christmas. With an unwavering focus on quality content, the blog has become a trusted companion for those looking to stay ahead of the latest Christmas trends. 

Whether it’s discovering the newest and most unique Christmas gifts or savouring the best festive foods and drinks, That’s Christmas ensures its readers are well-informed and thoroughly inspired.

A Hub for Christmas Gifting Inspiration

Gift-giving is at the heart of Christmas, and That’s Christmas excels in showcasing a diverse range of gift ideas. From thoughtful presents for loved ones to quirky stocking fillers that bring a smile, the blog curates a selection that caters to all tastes and budgets. 

Each product is carefully reviewed, with the blog’s insightful commentary making it easier for readers to choose the perfect gifts. This attention to detail has not only helped readers make informed choices but has also built a loyal following who trust the blog’s recommendations.

Festive Foods and Drinks: A Culinary Delight

Christmas is a time for indulgence, and That’s Christmas doesn’t disappoint when it comes to festive foods and drinks. The blog consistently highlights the latest culinary delights that make Christmas feasts unforgettable. From traditional favourites with a modern twist to new and exciting flavours, That’s Christmas covers it all. The blog’s coverage of festive beverages—be they cosy hot chocolates, celebratory wines, or inventive cocktails—ensures that readers have everything they need to create a memorable Christmas dining experience.

Engaging Content that Resonates

The success of That’s Christmas can also be attributed to its engaging and reader-friendly content. The blog is written with a warmth and enthusiasm that resonates with its audience. The posts are not just informative but also capture the magic of the season, making readers feel part of the festive celebration. This connection is what sets That’s Christmas apart, making it more than just a source of information—it's a community of Christmas enthusiasts.

Looking Forward to Another Successful Season

As we approach another festive season, That’s Christmas continues to shine brightly. Its commitment to bringing the latest Christmas news, along with its expert curation of gifts and festive treats, ensures it remains a favourite among its readers. The blog's growth and continued success are a testament to its relevance and the high-quality content it consistently delivers.

In a world where the festive season can sometimes feel overwhelming, That’s Christmas remains a comforting guide, helping its readers to navigate Christmas with joy, ease, and a touch of magic. Here’s to another season of festive cheer, and to That’s Christmas—the blog that truly embodies the spirit of the season.

https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/

Just in time for Christmas! BZZD Energy, the World's fist Energy Tonic Water

Feel that you need a little extra buzz? Then please allow us to introduce you to BZZD Energy, the world’s first energy tonic water.

Whilst many leading energy drinks use synthetic caffeine, BZZD Energy is powered only by nature – with caffeine extracted from 100% natural plant sources to give the ultimate all-natural, uplifting buzz. 

Not only energised by, but sweetened by nature too, this exciting new launch is infused with the finest pure Blossom Honey and plant-based Stevia to create the perfect delicate flavour experience, nasty sugary aftertastes are a thing of the past!

Expertly crafted to lift and boost your spirits, BZZD Energy is the ultimate guilt free pick me up as it boasts more caffeine per 100ml than the UK’s leading energy brand, while being only 18kcals per can, too.

Perfect for the times you need a naturally powered energising lift, enjoy BZZD Energy on its own or as a mixer for spirits and low/no alcohol alternatives to create a winning highball to enjoy over Christmas, or twist on true classics such as our G & Bee, Queen Bee, or Stinger Winter serves.

BZZD Energy really is the bee’s knees and proud to be British with 100% recyclable packaging and all ingredients ethically produced in the UK.

BZZD Energy tonic water is available via Selfridges and Amazon, available in cases of 8 (RRP £5.50).

Also visit the BZZD Energy website at https://bzzdenergy.co.uk/ for exclusive online offers.

BZZD Energy is, of course, committed to ‘responsible drinking’.

"Boost Your Business for Free with That's Food and Drink & That's Christmas Blogs"

In the digital age, online presence is a crucial aspect of promoting your business. With countless marketing strategies available, it's often challenging to find cost-effective ways to reach a wider audience. 

However, two valuable resources stand out - That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs. These popular platforms offer businesses a unique opportunity to promote themselves for free. In this blog post, we'll explore how these blogs can help your business gain visibility, build credibility, and drive engagement without breaking the bank. (Yes, we are blowing our own trumpets. But if not us, who else?)

1. Showcase Your Products and Services

One of the most effective ways to promote your business is by showcasing your products or services. Whether you're in the food and beverage industry or have Christmas-themed offerings, That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs provide a platform to feature what you have to offer. These blogs often have a dedicated section for business features or product spotlights. By submitting your business or product, you can reach their large, engaged audience who are already interested in your niche.

2. Gain Credibility and Trust

Being featured on reputable blogs can significantly boost your business's credibility. Both That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs have earned their readers' trust by consistently providing high-quality content. When your business gets mentioned on these blogs, potential customers are more likely to trust your brand. This is an excellent way to build a positive reputation and influence the decision-making process of your target audience.

3. Reach a Targeted Audience

The key to successful promotion is reaching the right audience. That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs are specialized in their respective niches, which means they have a dedicated readership interested in food, beverages, and Christmas-related topics. This focused audience is more likely to engage with your content and convert into customers, making it a valuable opportunity for businesses in these sectors.

4. SEO Benefits

Getting featured on these blogs can also have indirect but powerful SEO benefits. When your business is mentioned in a well-established blog, it creates valuable backlinks to your website. These backlinks can improve your website's search engine ranking, making it easier for potential customers to find your business when searching online.

5. Social Media Exposure

Both blogs have active social media profiles and regularly share their featured content. When your business is featured, it's likely to be shared across their social media channels, giving you additional exposure to a broader audience. This can lead to increased brand recognition and engagement on social platforms.

6. Leverage the Christmas Season

For That's Christmas, the Christmas season is a perfect time to gain exposure. Businesses related to Christmas gifts, decorations, and festivities can leverage the blog's holiday-themed content to showcase their offerings and generate more sales during this peak period.

7. Networking Opportunities

Engaging with That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs also opens doors to networking opportunities. You may connect with other businesses in your industry, exchange ideas, and potentially collaborate on future projects.

In conclusion, That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs offer businesses valuable exposure and promotion opportunities for free. By leveraging their established platforms, businesses can reach a targeted audience, gain credibility, improve SEO, and enjoy the benefits of social media exposure. If you want to increase your brand's visibility and grow your customer base without breaking the bank, consider reaching out to these blogs for potential features. It's a cost-effective way to enhance your marketing efforts and build a strong online presence for your business.

To learn how we can help you for free (There's a reason why we have Google Adsense on our blogs!) please send an email to us at afj_uk@yahoo.com.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry With a Luxury Christmas Hamper from DukesHill

Justifiably famed for stupendously awesome artisanal luxury hampers including its hamper like no other, the Truly Magnificent, priced at £895, DukesHill has a standout collection available for this Christmas.

Filled to the very brim with the finest artisan food and drink, DukesHill's luxury hamper collection celebrates the very best of Britain's artisan producers - including their own expertly cured hams that carry a Royal Warrant awarded by Queen Elizabeth II, creating hampers of quality, taste and exceptional provenance to gift or enjoy this Christmas.

Christmas Hamper Highlights

Truly Magnificent Hamper - £895

39 items, 2 x 20” wicker hampers with leather straps

The Truly Magnificent Hamper certainly does live up to its luxurious name. Thirty nine individual items are nestled across not one but two wicker hampers creating a Christmas classic. 

At its very heart is a boneless Large St George's Ham, cured by DukesHill's experts and baked with a spiced orange, cinnamon, mace and clove glaze, closely followed by a whole sliced side of superior oak traditionally Smoked Salmon. 

Included is a fine selection of artisan cheeses, chutneys, crackers, sables and a duck liver pâté with Cointreau along with a Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, crafted and baked exclusively for DukesHill.

There are, of course, some delightful sweet treats, including DukesHill's Extra Large Christmas Pudding and a selection of handmade artisan mince pies unique to DukesHill: St Clements, Classic and Almond-topped flavours to add to your feast.  

You'll also discover Peaches in Brandy, handmade Scottish Shortbread direct from Loch Lomond, Turkish Delight, and for chocolate lovers, Blonde Chocolate Coffee & Caramelised Hazelnut Mendiants, Dark Chocolate Roasted Almond & Ginger Mendiants, an Extra Large Chocolate Selection box, Chocolate Covered Pecans and Milk Chocolate Covered Honeycomb that's made in small batches using real honey and the finest Colombian milk chocolate. A selection of fine wines and champagne complete this gourmet journey in a hamper.

It's A Wonderful Life - £195

14 items, 20” wicker hamper with leather straps

A carefully curated selection of the very best that's available from of DukesHill, It's A Wonderful Life pulls out all the stops this season with DukesHill's legendary boneless Wiltshire Ham and signature traditional Oak Smoked Salmon.  

Seasonal savouries include Isle of Mull Cheddar, Cote Hill Blue Cheese, Boxing Day Chutney, Scottish Oatcakes, Parmesan & Pistachio Sables and DukesHill's exclusive Pork Rillettes, made by slowly cooking pork belly with peppers, spices and Espelette pepper. A Family Christmas Pudding, Classic Mince Pies, handmade Scottish Shortbread, Milk Chocolate Honeycomb and Grandad's Light Fruit Cake Loaf made with almonds, butter, cherries, vine fruits and mixed spice are the sweet picks on offer, alongside a bottle of Tanners creamy, biscuity Cava Brut to toast the season.

Bah! Humbug - £95

12 items, 14” wicker hamper with leather straps

However, please rest assured that there's certainly nothing Scrooge-like about the Bah! Humbug hamper with its Honey Baked Baby Ham cured by DukesHill's very own experts, Sliced Oak Smoked Salmon and Pork Rillettes, exclusive to DukesHill and made by slowly cooking pork belly with peppers, spices and Espelette pepper. 

Also included is Barbers Black Waxed Cheddar to try with a spoonful of Fig Chutney, a jar of Cocktail Nuts, DukesHill's moist and rich Christmas Pudding, a mini classic Panettone, handmade Scottish shortbread from Loch Lomond, Milk Chocolate Crunchy Biscuit & Caramelised Pecan Mendiants, Milk Chocolate Honeycomb and a festive Gingerbread Blonde Chocolate bar.

The Chocolatier's Collection Hamper - £95

7 Items • 14” Wicker Basket with Leather Straps

Exquisitely and beautifully presented, this chocolate lover's dream contains an ingenious hot chocolate shaker to enjoy the most velvety smooth hot chocolate at home, along with three bags of artisan chocolate; milk chocolate drops, indulgent dark chocolate orange flakes and delicious blonde chocolate flakes. 

This exceptional collection also boasts a box of 16 beautifully hand decorated special Christmas truffles produced by artisan chocolatiers, alongside two bars of luxury-tasting chocolate in the most delicious flavours: Pistachio & Cranberry Chocolate and Marmalade Dark Chocolate.

Deck The Halls Hamper - £60 

7 Items • 14” Wicker basket with leather straps

A DukesHill artisan tasting experience in a hamper, this contains a carefully selected collection of the very best handmade and British produced products including a delicious Fig Chutney, Parmesan & Pistachio Sablés, Classic Panettone, a tin of melt-in-the-mouth Scottish Shortbread handmade in Loch Lomond, a festive tasting Gingerbread Blonde Chocolate Bar, DukesHill's family recipe Christmas Pudding, and a 75cl bottle of a biscuit, creamy cava Brut from Tanners.

(EDITOR: This reminds me. My wife and I need to pop in to Tanners to sort out our Christmas wine order, as Tanners are our local wine merchants.)

To learn more and to place your orders please visit DukesHill's website https://www.dukeshillham.co.uk

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!

Monin Cocktail Syrups, the ideal gift for anyone!

 Imagine the glee on Christmas morning when someone gets a special gift pack of Monin Cocktail syrups? The Monin Cocktail set consists of all you need to start making some really classic and truly classy cocktails.

It contains small bottles of the following cocktail syrups: Blue Curacao, Coconut, Grenadine, Mojito Mint ans Passion Fruit. Not only that, it comes complete with some innovative cocktail recipes to be tried at home!

Tropical Blue, Pima Colada, Mojito, Tequila Sunrise, all really good versions of these cocktails.

And if they are not feeling in the mood for something alcoholic? Then they can turn their mind to creating some fantastic alcohol free smoothies, Mocktails such as Caribbean Velvet,  Cupidon, Passionata and Day at the Beach! So this present is ideal for the person who is a cocktail regular, who never drinks alcohol or who enjoys the occasional tipple.

And they aren't just for Christmas! They are also ideal for Bonfire night bashes, Diwali celebrations, New Year, etc.

For details of the full range of syrups, flavours, recipes, where to buy, etc, please visit www.monin.com