That's Food and Drink: Black Gold XO Cafe Tequila. "It's utterly delicious!"

That's Food and Drink: Black Gold XO Cafe Tequila. "It's utterly delicious!": One of the members of out tasting team is not a fan of Tequila. However, upon tasting Black Gold XO Cafe Tequila they said: "Wow! This ...

New coffee brand Rage will be gifted all over the UK this Christmas

A Leeds-based marketeer, coffee lover, and sporting enthusiast has managed to bring all of his interests into play to enter into the world of entrepreneurship and he is celebrating having joined forces with his favourite Indian cricketer, as he brings a new coffee brand to the UK.

Taking care of Influencer Marketing and Brand Partnership for Myprotein India, Pradeep Singh Narwal, who was born and raised in Haryana, North India, has worked with a large number brands and celebrities but it was cricket legend Virat Kohli who recently captured his attention, and his association with a new coffee brand, which it is reported is an ideal alternative for the health conscious coffee drinker, which has led him to become an entrepreneur in his own right.

Pradeep, 35, who joined us in the UK in 2018 to pursue a Master's degree in Sports Business at Leeds Beckett University, is, as you'd expect, a massive sports fan and from a young age aspired to play cricket professionally. 

Although life's circumstances led him to pursue a different path, he still loved to play cricket and his passion for sports never waned. 

With a Masters degree in Sports Business and a background at MyProtein as an influencer marketing specialist, he got the chance to connect effectively with athletes. Having grown up in Bangalore, India, Pradeep developed his love for the rich taste of filter coffee from a young age but motivated by his own health and wellness goals had recently started to look for alternatives. 

He said: “Bangalorean filter coffee is absolutely, really amazing. There's a stall at Bangalore airport named Hatti Kaapi where we used to go almost every weekend, but if not, but at least once a month to have coffee. Even the small vendors, local vendors, used to sell filter coffee and drinking coffee was always a big part of my social life too -  we used to have late night talks with friends, with a coffee.”

“When I moved to the UK, I still missed that taste of coffee but I got used to the coffee here over time. Now I'm a black coffee drinker, so I need my black coffee early in the morning, and I just can't start my morning without having a black coffee, and I often go for butterscotch or dark chocolate flavours now, which is an enjoyable energy kick.”

Which brings us to Rage Coffee.

Rage Coffee is infused with plant vitamins, focusing on gut health to avoid acidity and bloating and offering flavours that evoked nostalgic memories, such as the rich butterscotch and dark chocolate varieties that reminded him of his days in Bangalore, Pradeep was drawn in- but it was the fact that Virat Kohli, one of his all time favourite sportsmen, was an ambassador that turned his head the most..

Pradeep said: "As a huge Virat Kohli fan, his involvement with the brand initially caught my interest but when I was introduced to it I was amazed by its strong caffeine kick without the bitterness and its qualities as a healthier alternative to traditional filter coffee, using no artificial syrups for its flavours. 

"I also love the science behind it and I learnt that the 100% natural extracts included in the blends are typically found in foods, but not always easy to get from one's diet alone.  I am a huge coffee lover, after all it’s a part of my heritage, but as I have matured, like many of us I have become more health conscious and try and make better nutritional choices. 

And he's not alone. Recent research indicates that 53% of UK coffee drinkers are showing an interest in information about caffeine levels and products offering varied levels of it, yet only a few brands highlight this aspect.

Featured in media worldwide including Forbes, The Statesman and BBC Good Food Guide, every 3.25 gms serving contains 275 mg of all-natural plant extracts including:

L-Theanine - Tea extract that balances daily anxiety; Ginkgo Biloba - The only living fossil consumed since the earliest days of human history;Panax Ginseng - Known to improve work efficiency, physical stamina and athletic endurance; Bacopa Monnieri- Used for improving memory and better cerebral blood flow; Rhodiola Rosea - Adapts to any kind of stress like anxiety, fatigue, and also nervousness; and L-Glutamine - Amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins.

Pradeep is passionate about helping to give coffee a new, brighter image, and is passionate about putting the customer back in control, helping them understand exactly what it is we are consuming. 

He went on to say: “We clearly indicate the caffeine content, and all the plant based ingredients in each blend. It's about giving people the choice and control over their coffee experience. I’m really excited to now build this business and to find ways to spread awareness of how we do things differently."

Rage Coffee is available as both filter and instant coffee, for purchase in the UK. 

To learn more visit them at https://ragecoffee.uk. 

Seeking out the ideal Christmas present for a coffee lover? We've found this for you from KitchenAid

Just check out the all new KitchenAid Espresso Collection which has recently launched. 

The NEW KitchenAid KF8 Fully-Automatic Espresso Machine includes some fantastic new features, spiffing cutting-edge technology, a durable metal body, best-in-class performance, a Quiet Mark certificate AND a prestigious Red Dot Design Award.

They are available from kitchenaid.co.uk in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron Black, Porcelain White and Juniper for a RRP of £1,899.

Also available in the new Fully-Automatic Espresso Collection is the KF6 - RRP £1,299 and KF7 - RRP £1,599. 

Or for a more hands on coffee experience, why not go for the Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder £699? These are available in Porcelain White, Cast Iron Black and Stainless Steel.

That's Food and Drink: NaturesPlus will help you through the winter months

That's Food and Drink: NaturesPlus will help you through the winter months: NaturesPlus Immune Support Tablets (£24.95/ 60 tablets)  Available from Amazon  For good, effective winter immune support, NaturesPlus Immun...

Want eco-friendly gifts for crafty youngsters? Little Crafters Boxes have you covered

Little Crafters Boxes has revealed DIY eco-friendly advent calendars and DIY festive decorations that are absolutely ideal for crafting kids this Christmas.

You'll be able to keep little fingers busy and entertaining themselves over Christmas, with a fantastic range of cleverly crafty gifts for kids.

Released by Little Crafters Boxes, you'll be able to choose from a festive or vehicle-themed build-at-home advent calendar for 24 days of creative fun. Absolutely ideal for those who want to gift eco-friendly presents this Christmas.

Or there are oodles of crafty festive DIY decorations. You'll find winter scenes and trees, stockings and baubles - all of which make for wonderful keepsakes that will last a lifetime, bring happy memories out every Christmas.

For more information, visit www.littlecraftersboxes.co.uk

Little Crafters' Advent Calendar | £49.99 (free UK postage) | Stockist: Little Crafters Boxes

These beautifully and carefully designed DIY advent calendars offer 24 days of creative fun for children aged three to 12, with crafts including baubles, Christmas trees and festive scenes. 

You'll be able to opt for an enchanted festive theme, or a vehicle set, complete with DIY police cars, fire engines and buses, too. 

As with Little Crafters’ monthly subscription boxes, this eco-friendly wooden DIY set is solely manufactured in the UK, and includes everything needed to make the keepsakes inside. (None of the disappointment of a gift that describes itself as "designed in the UK but made in somewhere else, a personal source of irritation for those of us at That's Christmas.)

Items in the Little Crafters' Christmas Catalogue start at £4.99 to £49.99.

Creative kids in your life will love the Little Crafters’ Christmas catalogue. Why? Because it's jam-packed full of festive DIY crafts, including tree decorations (from £4.99), a fairy-light-adorned village scene (£19.99), and a wooden stocking (£12.99). 

Carefully made in the UK only using eco-friendly wood, these are perfect gifts for stocking fillers, Secret Santas or fun gifts that are thoughtfully designed to make excellent keepsakes too. 

You can go through the catalogue and make up a wonderful bundle of Festive joy to create a unique and utterly brilliant Xmas gift. 

Box A (£39.99) contains a 30cm Santa, a Christmas village with fairy lights, and a reindeer tealight ornament. While Box B (£42.99) contains tree decorations, and a wooden stocking.

www.littlecraftersboxes.co.uk

Buy special handcrafted wooden gifts from Stephen Watson of Watson Woodworks

 Leah, a very good friend of That's Christmas, has asked us to promote her Dad's business and we are pleased and proud to be able to do this.

Stephen Watson, of Watson Woodworks which is based in Norfolk, handcrafts sustainable chopping boards, musical instruments and bespoke items all using carefully selected and expertly reworked reclaimed wood.

What about an Edge Grain Chopping Board? 

It's a true must-have accessory for the cooks in your life.

It's crafted with high-quality mixed hardwoods and is ideal for both preparing and serving food. 

The intricate patterning is a genuine "wow!" factor and will really make a good impact in the kitchen of the recipient and will really impress their guests.

It's smart, rectangular design and colours means it will fit in with just about any kitchen decor or style. 

The size is 46 x 30 x 3cm and it will cost £130.

Or maybe you are looking for the perfect gift for someone who is a bit of a percussionist on the quiet? (Yeah, that's almost certainly a non sequitur!) 

If so, this unique gift will certainly give them something to liven the mood a little bit. It's a gorgeous Mini Crazy Grain Shaker.

Small enough to easily fit in the hand, they are made using a combination of hard and soft woods. Each one is filled with 40 ball bearings giving a delightfully woody sound when they are shaken. A real fun stocking filler and a present that will really make a wonderful sound if the lucky recipient shakes their parcel, in the traditional way employed by people trying to work out what their Christmas present might be! 

Size is about 4cm square by 6cm tall and they'll cost £20.

If, like me, you need a bit of help when carrying cups of coffee, tea, etc into the conservatory or out into the garden, then Stephen can also help you with his amazing hexagonal serving trays.

They not only look fantastic but the raised edges really help you to get the goodies out into the garden without too much fuss!

They are carefully crafted using only high quality and very durable materials which are ideal for our eclectic (or eccentric?) British weather, being made from weather-resistant materials.

They are designed to withstand the elements, whilst at the same time adding more than a touch of elegance to your conservatory or your outdoor garden space. 

The hexagon shape will provide the recipient of this gift a look that is both unique and modern, yet without being too much, if you know what I mean. 

Looking after your pot of tea, keeping your cocktails safe, or holding your BBQ snacks in a tidy, orderly fashion  they are a genuine must have accessory for the person who loves to make the most of their garden space.

There are two designs, oak rustic or red cedar look. The red look ones are a bit smaller at about 21”.

Looking for a gift for the musically inclined? Then That's Christmas believes you have to plump for the Crazy Grain Cajon.

These amazing, handcrafted genuinely one of a kind Cajons are crafted using many different colours of hardwoods and softwoods.

They come with a fully adjustable snare system so that they'll be able to achieve a natural box sound with the snares off, and also set to a loose snare for a Jazz mode and a tight snare for a normal feel. 

There's also a clever damper system so that the snares don't rattle when the snares are set to be completely off for that natural box sound.

The cost is £230 and to see and hear Stephen demonstrating this, please have a look and a listen here:-https://www.watsonwoodworks.co.uk/musical-cajon

To order any of the above items or to discuss placing special commissions visit https://www.watsonwoodworks.co.uk.

Wondering what Christmas gifts to get for your family? Philips have the answers

As the Christmas season approaches, the search for the perfect gift begins! 

Philips is here to help make your gift giving experience effortless and memorable with a vast range of products that are all designed to enhance everyday living and bring joy to your loved ones. 

Whether you are looking for gifts for your partner, a man or woman who you love, a relative, a dear friend, or an esteemed work colleague or business partner, Philips has a selection of gifts at a range of budgets to help you shop for everyone in your life.  

 For Him Under £50 

There's the Philips OneBlade 360. 

It's the absolutely ultimate grooming tool to trim, edge and shave any length of hair. The latest innovation makes this shave more effortless than ever before, this is thanks to the innovative 360 blade that ensures fewer passes and more comfort per cut. A true must-have for any grooming routine. The perfect gift for your partner. 

RRP: £49.99 

Luxury gift for Her 

Philips Lumea IPL 9900 Series 

The Philips Lumea IPL 9900 swaps inconvenient and tiresome trips to the beauty salon for at-home comfort. 

It applies gentle pulses of light to hair roots, putting them to rest, resulting in a long-term reduction in the amount and regrowth of hairs. Proven to reduce hair by up to 92% with just three treatments, reducing hair regrowth for you to enjoy 12 months of hair-free smooth skin. (My wife owns one and can heartily recommend it.)

The cordless device is Philips’ smartest Intense Pulse Light (IPL) solution ever. Coming with three exclusive AI-powered features (SkinAI) within the Lumea app that provide personalised virtual skin analysis and treatment guidance.  

RRP: £539.99 

Luxury For Anyone 

Philips Sonicare Diamondclean Prestige 9900 

Give the gift of a whiter, healthier smile for life with their most advanced electric toothbrush. With its innovative SenseIQ technology, the device features sensors that can detect the user's brushing style and adapt accordingly, thus creating a fully personalised oral healthcare experience with absolutely no problem at all!

Making switching from a manual toothbrush to an electric one an utter breeze, as it is 20 times more effective​, removing up to 100% more stains than a manual toothbrush in less than a week. 

RRP: £549.99 

Holland and Barrett Advent Calendar Review.

At only £45 this is a real bargain, but they do sell out very quickly so get one as soon as you can. https://www.hollandandbarrett.com

Celebrating Christmas with DukesHill's Award-Winning Bacon: A Cut Above the Rest

As the festive season approaches, thoughts of twinkling lights, decorated trees, and sumptuous feasts fill our minds. Christmas is a time for indulgence, a time to gather with loved ones and savour the best that life has to offer. 

When it comes to food, nothing quite epitomises the joy of Christmas like a hearty breakfast or a decadent brunch, and there’s no better way to elevate these festive meals than with DukesHill's award-winning bacon.

Why DukesHill Bacon?

Shropshire-based DukesHill is synonymous with quality. Renowned for their artisanal approach and commitment to traditional curing methods, DukesHill's bacon stands out as a cut above the rest. Their dedication to using only the finest British pork, combined with a meticulous curing process that can take up to two weeks, ensures that each slice of bacon is bursting with rich, smoky flavour. 

The result is a product that has won numerous awards and, more importantly, the hearts of those who value exceptional food.

Festive Breakfast Ideas

Christmas morning is one of the most magical moments of the year, and starting it with a luxurious breakfast can set the tone for the day. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate DukesHill bacon into your festive breakfast:

1. The Ultimate Full English

No Christmas morning is complete without a full English breakfast. Crisp up some slices of DukesHill smoked back bacon and serve them alongside free-range eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and sausages. Add some black pudding, baked beans, and toast, and you’ve got a breakfast fit for a king.

2. Bacon and Egg Muffins

For a more portable option, consider making bacon and egg muffins. Line a muffin tin with slices of DukesHill streaky bacon, crack an egg into each, and bake until the eggs are set. These little parcels of joy are perfect for those who want a hearty breakfast without too much fuss.

3. Maple-Glazed Bacon Pancakes

For a sweet and savoury twist, try maple-glazed bacon pancakes. Fry up some DukesHill streaky bacon until it’s crispy, then drizzle with pure maple syrup. Stack the bacon between fluffy pancakes, and you’ve got a breakfast that’s sure to impress.

A Bacon-Infused Christmas Dinner

Bacon isn’t just for breakfast – it can also play a starring role in your Christmas dinner. Here are a few ways to incorporate DukesHill bacon into your festive feast:

1. Bacon-Wrapped Turkey

Elevate your turkey by wrapping it in DukesHill streaky bacon before roasting. The bacon will add flavour and keep the turkey moist, creating a show-stopping centrepiece for your Christmas table.

2. Bacon-Wrapped Chipolatas

No Christmas dinner is complete without pigs in blankets. Wrap DukesHill chipolatas in streaky bacon and roast until golden and crispy. These little morsels are a favourite for both young and old, and they’re incredibly easy to make.

3. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Even Brussels sprouts can be made delicious with the addition of DukesHill bacon. Sauté chopped bacon until crispy, then toss with roasted Brussels sprouts for a side dish that’s bursting with flavour.

Bacon as a Christmas Gift

For the food lovers in your life, consider giving the gift of DukesHill bacon this Christmas. Whether it’s part of a gourmet hamper or a stand-alone present, a selection of DukesHill's finest cuts is sure to be appreciated. After all, what could be better than receiving the gift of exceptional food?

In Conclusion

DukesHill's award-winning bacon is more than just an ingredient – it’s an experience. Its rich flavour and superior quality make it the perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This festive season, elevate your meals and create unforgettable moments with DukesHill bacon – a true cut above the rest.

https://www.dukeshill.co.uk/collections/bacon

The That's Christmas Guide to Eating Well, Feeling Good, and Living Better This Christmas

The festive season is fast approaching, and with it comes the promise of delicious feasts, joyous celebrations, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of indulgence. 

While Christmas is a time for merrymaking, it’s also an opportunity to focus on our well-being, both physical and mental. 

This year, why not gift yourself and your loved ones a guide to eating well, feeling good, and living better?

The Art of Eating Well

Christmas is synonymous with food, from the traditional roast dinner to the endless selection of sweets and treats. However, eating well doesn’t mean you have to forgo the delights of the season. It’s about balance, quality, and mindfulness.

Embrace Whole Foods: Incorporate more whole foods into your festive meals. Fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins not only nourish your body but also add vibrant flavours to your table. Consider roasted Brussels sprouts with chestnuts, quinoa-stuffed peppers, or a hearty lentil stew as part of your Christmas spread.

Portion Control with Pleasure: Enjoy your favourite festive foods, but be mindful of portion sizes. Smaller servings allow you to savour each bite without overindulging. Remember, you can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry!

Smart Snacking: Christmas is often filled with grazing and snacking. Opt for healthier choices like nuts, fruit, or dark chocolate. These options satisfy your cravings and provide essential nutrients, keeping your energy levels stable throughout the day.

Stay Hydrated: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when indulging in rich foods and festive drinks. Start your day with a glass of water, and keep a bottle close by to sip throughout the celebrations.

Feeling Good Inside and Out

Christmas can be a whirlwind of activities, and it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health amidst the hustle and bustle.

Mindful Eating: Slow down and truly enjoy your meals. Take the time to appreciate the flavours, textures, and aromas of your food. Mindful eating not only enhances your dining experience but also aids digestion and helps you tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.

Keep Moving: Incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine, even during the festive season. A brisk walk, a dance session in the living room, or a quick yoga flow can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being. Exercise helps counteract the effects of indulgent meals and keeps your energy levels up.

Prioritise Rest: With parties, shopping, and socialising, it’s easy to skimp on sleep. However, getting enough rest is essential for maintaining your health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and don’t be afraid to take a nap if you need it.

Practice Gratitude: Christmas is a time for reflection and gratitude. Take a moment each day to acknowledge the things you’re thankful for. Practising gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, enhance relationships, and boost overall happiness.

Living Better Through the Festive Season

Living better this Christmas is about finding joy in simplicity, being present in the moment, and creating meaningful connections with loved ones.

Simplify Your Celebrations: This year, consider scaling back on the excess and focusing on what truly matters. Whether it’s opting for homemade gifts, choosing fewer but more meaningful presents, or simplifying your Christmas dinner menu, a more mindful approach can reduce stress and enhance your enjoyment.

Quality Time Over Quantity: Christmas is about spending time with loved ones. Instead of trying to fit in as many events as possible, focus on creating quality moments with the people who matter most. A cosy night in with family, a leisurely walk with a friend, or a heartfelt conversation can leave lasting memories.

Give Back: There’s no better way to live better than by giving back to others. Whether it’s donating to a charity, volunteering your time, or simply offering a kind gesture to someone in need, acts of kindness enrich your own life and spread the true spirit of Christmas.

Set Intentions for the New Year: As the year comes to a close, take some time to reflect on the past twelve months and set positive intentions for the year ahead. Whether it’s adopting healthier habits, pursuing a new passion, or deepening your relationships, setting intentions can help you start the new year on a positive note.

This Christmas, let’s make a conscious effort to eat well, feel good, and live better. By embracing balance, mindfulness, and simplicity, we can enjoy all the delights of the season while nurturing our bodies, minds, and spirits. So, as you deck the halls and prepare for the festivities, remember that the best gift you can give yourself and others is the gift of well-being. Merry Christmas!