The Resurgence of Irish Tweeds: Why This Heritage Fabric Is Back in a Big Way

Irish tweed is enjoying a modern revival. Discover why this heritage fabric is back in demand and how to style timeless Donegal and Irish weaves today.

Irish tweed is finding its way under Christmas trees again, from beautifully woven scarves to luxurious jackets and accessories. 

With its warmth, texture, and unmistakable charm, tweed makes a thoughtful festive gift,especially for anyone who loves heritage, craftsmanship, or a dash of Celtic flair. 

This season, the resurgence of Irish tweeds is perfectly timed for stylish winter gifting.

Irish tweed has never truly disappeared from wardrobes, but over the past few years it has surged back into fashion with a confidence that feels both nostalgic and entirely modern. From the windswept hills of Donegal to runways in London and boutiques across the UK, tweed is enjoying a renaissance driven by a renewed love of craftsmanship, sustainability, and timeless style.

A Fabric Woven Into Irish History

Irish tweed, especially the iconic Donegal variety, has been produced for generations by artisans who draw inspiration from the rugged landscapes around them. The flecks of colour in traditional Donegal yarns echo wildflowers, granite, sea spray and gorse. Each bolt of cloth feels like a story, woven by hand or on small-batch looms in mills that often remain family-run.

For much of the 20th century, Irish tweed was viewed as a marker of durability and rural charm—something your grandfather wore for Sunday walks. Yet today it has reclaimed its place not just as a heritage textile, but as a luxurious, versatile fabric that slots seamlessly into contemporary wardrobes.

Why Irish Tweed Is Making a Comeback

1. Slow fashion has met its moment

In an era where consumers want clothing that lasts, tweed stands out. Irish mills produce cloth that is hard-wearing, repairable, and made in small, sustainable batches. People are embracing quality over quantity, and tweed answers that call beautifully.

2. A renewed appreciation of craft

Younger buyers increasingly seek items with provenance—pieces with a genuine link to place and maker. Irish tweed is exactly that: fabric made by craftspeople whose skills have been refined across generations. Wearing tweed today is a quiet celebration of their artistry.

3. Modern tailoring has transformed it

Designers have shaken off preconceptions by using tweed in slimmer silhouettes, softer constructions, and contemporary colours. Sharp blazers, tapered trousers, waistcoats, and even tote bags and trainers now make use of the fabric. It’s no longer confined to bulky jackets or shooting coats—it’s sleek, urban, and stylish.

4. A symbol of Celtic identity

Across Ireland and the UK, people are leaning back into regional culture and heritage. Tweed is wearable history, and many appreciate how it connects them to their roots—or allows them to celebrate Irish craft even if they have no personal ties.

5. TV and film have played their part

From period dramas to modern crime series, costuming has thrust tweed back into the spotlight. When audiences see characters looking effortlessly sharp in heritage fabrics, demand naturally follows.

What Makes Irish Tweed Distinctive?

Irish tweed isn’t a monolith. Among the most recognisable:

Donegal Tweed – famous for its colourful, irregular flecks.

Magee Tweed – produced in County Donegal since 1866, with a softer, more luxurious hand feel.

Handwoven tweeds – still crafted on traditional looms by master weavers across rural Ireland.

These fabrics blend tradition with a surprising lightness and warmth, making them perfect for UK weather—especially when the wind is off the Irish Sea.

How to Wear Irish Tweed Today

If you’re tempted to bring tweed into your wardrobe but want to avoid looking overly country-gent, here are some simple styling ideas:

A tweed blazer with dark denim for an effortlessly polished weekend look.

A tweed flat cap if you want a small nod to the trend without committing to a full garment.

A tweed waistcoat layered under a modern suit jacket for texture and depth.

A tweed overcoat in charcoal or moss green for an investment piece that will last decades.

And for the truly adventurous, designers are now producing tweed trainers, tweed tote bags, and even tweed laptop sleeves—a stylish twist for everyday life.

Where the Industry Is Heading

The resurgence shows no signs of slowing. Irish mills are innovating with:

lighter-weight weaves suitable for spring and summer

bold, contemporary colourways

partnerships with international designers

eco-friendly wool sourcing and natural dyes

The combination of heritage and innovation is proving irresistible.

Final Thoughts: A Revival Rooted in Authenticity

The renewed love for Irish tweeds is more than a trend, it's a rediscovery. In a world filled with fast fashion and fleeting aesthetics, tweed offers something enduring: texture, warmth, artistry, and a sense of belonging to a bigger story.

Whether you pick up a Donegal jacket or a simple cap, you’re not just wearing a fabric. You’re wearing a piece of living history—one that is, delightfully, right back in style.

https://weaversofireland.com/en-gb

Keep Your Home Safe for the 12 Days of Christmas: Why a Free Fire Safety Visit Could Be the Best Gift You Give Your Family

Ensure your home stays safe over the 12 days of Christmas with simple fire safety tips and a free Home Fire Safety Visit from your local fire service, including smoke alarm checks and free detectors for eligible households.

The festive season brings warmth, cheer, and a touch of magic to our homes. But with candles glowing, fairy lights twinkling, and kitchens working overtime, it’s also a time when fire risks quietly increase.

The 12 days of Christmas should be filled with joy, not emergencies, so taking a few simple precautions now can make all the difference.

One of the most effective (and completely free) ways to safeguard your home is to arrange a Home Fire Safety Visit from your local fire and rescue service. These visits offer tailored advice, hands-on checks, and in many cases free smoke alarms for households that need them.

Here’s why it’s well worth booking yours this season.

Why the 12 Days of Christmas Need Extra Care

Festive celebrations introduce more potential hazards than many of us realise:

Decorations and fairy lights can overheat or become damaged after years in storage.

Candles are used far more frequently at this time of year and can be knocked over easily.

Cooking fires increase as many of us try to juggle big meals, family visitors, and distractions.

Portable heaters come out when cold snaps hit.

Alcohol consumption can lower awareness and make accidents more likely.

With all this going on, even a well-prepared household can overlook something important. That’s where your local fire service can step in.

What Happens During a Free Home Fire Safety Visit?

A trained fire officer will visit your home at a pre-arranged time to give you personalised guidance—and it’s far more helpful than a quick tick-box check.

They will:

Inspect smoke alarms and other fire protection devices.

Help you identify potential hazards, such as overloaded plugs, obstructed exit points, or risky candle placement.

Discuss safe cooking practices, especially useful for Christmas Day when the kitchen becomes mission control.

Talk through your escape routes to ensure the whole household knows what to do if a fire breaks out.

Provide tailored tips for older adults, people with disabilities, or families with young children.

Best of all, this service is completely free and designed to be friendly, reassuring, and supportive—not judgemental.

Free Smoke Detection Devices: Who Qualifies?

Many UK fire services offer free smoke alarms or specialist detection devices for households considered at higher risk. Eligibility varies slightly by region, but usually includes:

Older adults

People living with mobility or sensory impairments

Those with limited financial means

Families with very young children

Individuals who smoke

Residents in properties with no working alarms

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, don’t hesitate to ask. Fire crews genuinely want to help, and keeping your home safe helps them keep your community safe too.

How to Book Your Free Visit

It’s simple:

Visit your local fire service’s website (for example, West Midlands, Merseyside, London Fire Brigade, Scottish Fire and Rescue, etc.).

Search for “Home Fire Safety Visit” or “Safe and Well Check”.

Fill in the short request form or call the listed telephone number.

Choose a date and time that suits you.

Many services also provide guidance over the phone if an in-person visit isn’t possible.

Quick Fire Safety Tips for a Safer Christmas

While you wait for your visit, here are a few practical steps you can take today:

Test your smoke alarms—you should hear a loud beep.

Turn off fairy lights when you leave the room or go to bed.

Keep candles well away from anything that could catch fire, including decorations.

Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying.

Keep escape routes clear of boxes, gifts, or festive clutter.

Make sure everyone in the household knows where the keys are for quick exits.

These small actions can dramatically lower your risk.

The Greatest Gift This Christmas? Peace of Mind

Inviting a fire officer into your home may feel like a small step, but it’s one that could truly save a life—yours or someone you love. With expert advice, free protective equipment where needed, and practical support, you can enjoy the 12 days of Christmas with confidence.

Take a moment today to book your Home Fire Safety Visit. It costs nothing, takes very little time, and ensures your festive celebrations stay merry and bright—for all the right reasons.

The Birmingham Brewing Company: The Brummie Beers Bringing Cheer to Your Christmas Table

Celebrate Christmas with locally brewed cheer from The Birmingham Brewing Company. Discover festive beer pairings, gift ideas, and why these Brummie brews deserve a place on your holiday table.

Christmas in Birmingham has its own special magic, The Frankfurt Christmas Market, the lights in Victoria Square, the craft market, the bustle of last-minute shoppers, and that unmistakable Midlands warmth. 

But if you really want to add a local flourish to your festivities this year, look no further than The Birmingham Brewing Company

Based in Stirchley, this proudly independent brewery has become a firm favourite in homes across the city — including ours. In fact, as I sit writing this, my wife and I are enjoying their excellent Brummie Stout. And let me tell you: it’s not just festive… it’s properly festive. Deep, rich, smooth, and perfect for a winter’s evening.

And as a stout Brummie myself, I can confirm it goes down an absolute treat.

Why Birmingham Brewing Company Belongs in Your Christmas Line-Up

With Christmas dinners, Boxing Day buffets, cheese boards, family gatherings, and quiet nights in front of the fire, December is a month full of occasions that call for great drinks. What makes Birmingham Brewing Co’s beers such a good fit?

They’re brewed with quality British ingredients

They’re gluten-free, so more guests can enjoy them

They’re consistently delicious, without relying on gimmicks

They pair superbly with festive food

This is proper Brummie craftsmanship — and it really shows.

Festive Beer Pairings: Brummie Style

Here’s how their range shines at Christmastime:

Pale Brummie — Perfect for Party Nibbles

Light, refreshing, and ideal when you’re laying out sausage rolls, crisps, dips, and those mysterious “selection box” platters that appear every December.

Gold Brummie — A Star for the Cheese Board

Its brightness cuts through cheddar, Red Leicester, and even a stronger blue. A cracking Boxing Day companion.

Bitter Brummie — The Christmas Dinner Pint

Malty and smooth, it pairs beautifully with turkey, roasties, gravy, and the works.

Stout Brummie — Your Christmas Evening Sipper

This is where the magic happens. Deep, velvety, and warming, it’s ideal after dinner, with mince pies, or while watching the Christmas TV specials.

(Approved by the stout Brummie writing this.)

A Trip to the Stirchley Taproom This December

If you want to make a day of it, visiting their taproom in the run-up to Christmas is a joy. Expect:

Fresh draught beer mere metres from where it’s brewed

Festive food pop-ups

A cracking, friendly Brummie atmosphere

A great place to pick up last-minute gifts

Lovely cans that look smart in a stocking or under the tree

If you’re stuck for presents, a mixed case of local beer is a far better idea than novelty socks.

Gift Ideas for Beer Lovers

Mixed case of Brummie beers

A taproom gift voucher

A craft beer hamper with chutneys, cheeses, and cans from the brewery

A few Stout Brummies tucked into a stocking

It’s supporting a local business while giving people something they’ll actually enjoy.

A Brummie Cheers to Christmas

With their excellent beers, community spirit, and commitment to quality, The Birmingham Brewing Company adds something special to a Birmingham Christmas. Whether you're hosting, gifting, or simply curling up with a pint after a long day of shopping, their beers deliver proper festive cheer.

And if you happen to be a stout Brummie yourself — well, consider that an extra reason to raise a glass.

And as we Brummies say, "Mind the 'os road, our kid!"

If you want their beers delivered directly to your door, please use this link to our shop https://amzn.to/48Ki2P9

How Switching from Baths to Showers Saved Us £50–£70 a Year …and why this unexpected saving feels like a little Christmas gift

Switching from baths to showers has saved me £50–£70 a year. A simple change for my arthritic knee turned into a welcome Christmas saving on our household bills.

At Christmastime, every household looks for ways to stay warm, stay comfortable and stay within budget, not easy when December seems to come with a never-ending list of extra expenses.

So when I realised I’d been quietly saving £50 to £70 a year simply by changing how I wash, it felt rather like finding an early Christmas present tucked behind the tree.

A change driven by comfort

The switch itself wasn’t planned as a money-saving tactic at all. An arthritic knee was making getting in and out of the bath increasingly difficult, so I began showering exclusively. It was a practical decision, nothing more.

But within a few months, one thing became clear: our household bill was running noticeably lower. All because the bath, lovely as it can be, had been replaced by shorter, far more efficient showers.

Why showers cost less

A festive tip worth sharing:

Baths typically use 80–150 litres of hot water. Heating that volume several times a week adds up very quickly.

A short shower uses far less, meaning far less energy goes into heating water.

Across a year, that simple difference can shave £50–£70 off your energy costs — and even more if energy prices rise again.

It’s the kind of saving you don’t feel day to day, but really notice when winter bills arrive.

A seasonal saving that makes a difference

With Christmas approaching, that extra £50–£70 can be redirected to something far more joyful:

a special festive treat

a little luxury for the dinner table

a stocking filler for someone you love

or simply a cushion against rising winter costs

In a season when warmth, comfort and generosity matter, choosing a routine that supports both your wellbeing and your wallet feels wonderfully fitting.

A reminder that small habits matter

We often think energy savings must come from big investments, insulation, new boilers, smart systems. But sometimes the most effective changes are the smallest and most personal. In my case, it was simply stepping into a shower instead of running a bath.

This Christmas, if you’re looking for an easy, comforting and quietly cost-saving habit, the humble shower might be the most festive switch of all.

New Ways with Christmas Leftovers: Fresh Ideas to Transform the Post-Festive Fridge

Once the wrapping paper has been recycled and the last cracker joke has been groaned at, the fridge becomes a treasure trove of festive odds and ends. 

Turkey, pigs in blankets, roast vegetables, bread sauce, cranberry relish, stuffing, cheese… It’s all there, waiting for a second life. 

Rather than reheating the same plate again, this year why not turn your leftovers into dishes that feel genuinely exciting?

Here are fresh, clever, and wonderfully comforting ways to make the most of your Christmas bounty.

1. The Boxing Day Brunch Traybake

A full English meets festive odds and ends. (What my wife's mum, a professional chef, called a Smidgen roast!) 

Spread roast potatoes, chopped stuffing, halved pigs in blankets and a handful of greens (such as leftover sprouts) onto a tray. Drizzle with a little oil, warm through in a hot oven, then crack in a few eggs for the final five minutes.

Serve with cranberry sauce on the side for a sweet contrast.

2. Turkey & Cranberry Hand Pies

Use ready-rolled puff pastry to create rustic little pies filled with shredded turkey, a spoon of cranberry sauce, leftover gravy and a sprinkle of cheese.

Perfect for lunches, picnics, or for feeding hungry family members who wander into the kitchen asking what’s for tea.

3. Festive Ramen Bowl

A lighter option after days of rich food.

Warm turkey stock or leftover gravy loosened with water, add soy sauce, ginger and garlic, then pour over noodles.

Top with shredded turkey, sliced sprouts, finely sliced carrots or parsnips, and a soft-boiled egg. It’s soothing, quick, and a world away from roast dinners.

4. Stuffing & Roast Veg Waffles

Leftover stuffing and vegetables make surprisingly wonderful savoury waffles.

Mix chopped veg into stuffing, add an egg, a spoon of flour and a splash of milk, then press into a waffle maker until crisp.

Serve with fried eggs or a drizzle of leftover bread sauce thinned into a savoury dressing.

5. Brie & Cranberry Toasties

A classic, but endlessly satisfying.

Layer leftover festive cheeses, Brie, Stilton, Camembert, with cranberry sauce between slices of good bread.

Griddle until golden and molten.

Pairs beautifully with leftover red cabbage or sliced cold pigs in blankets.

6. Turkey Katsu Curry

A playful twist using the mountain of leftover turkey.

Breadcrumb slices of cold turkey, pan-fry until crisp, and serve with a quick katsu curry sauce (onion, carrot, garlic, mild curry powder, stock and coconut milk).

Delicious with leftover vegetables warmed in the oven.

7. Bubble & Squeak Deluxe

The Boxing Day classic deserves an upgrade.

Mash together all your veg plus chopped pigs in blankets and stuffing. Pan-fry until crisp on both sides.

Top with a poached egg and drizzle with warmed gravy for the ultimate comfort supper.

8. Leftover Cheeseboard Mac & Cheese

Cheddar, Stilton, Brie, whatever’s left on the cheeseboard can be blended into a glorious mac & cheese.

The combination yields a surprisingly complex, rich sauce.

Scatter with breadcrumbs made from stale baguette or crusts for extra crunch.

9. Yorkshire Pudding Wraps

If you’ve spare Yorkshires, fill them with turkey, stuffing and a drizzle of gravy, then fold into wraps.

They reheat wonderfully and make an effortless lunch.

10. Festive Fried Rice

An excellent way to use small amounts of lots of things.

Fry cold rice with chopped veg, shredded turkey, stuffing crumbs, soy sauce, ginger and a little chilli.

Add cranberries for a sweet pop that works far better than you'd expect.

Final Tips to Minimise Waste

Freeze early. Turkey freezes beautifully, keep portions ready for January meals.

Turn gravy into stock cubes. Use ice-cube trays for easy flavour boosters.

Get pickling. Leftover red cabbage or carrots can be turned into quick pickles for sandwiches.

Be brave. Christmas flavours are more versatile than they look.

The Turkey Crown Affair: A Festive Culinary Caper Worth Solving

*With a playful nod to The Thomas Crown Affair.

Every Christmas has its mysteries. Who ate the last mince pie? Where did the spare Sellotape vanish to? And why is the cat suddenly fascinated by the Christmas tree? 

But this year, a far grander culinary puzzle steals the spotlight—a festive whodunnit worthy of a stylish heist film.

Welcome to The Turkey Crown Affair

As in The Thomas Crown Affair, where charm, strategy and impeccable timing reign supreme, choosing your Christmas turkey is all about making the smart, stylish, and stress-free move. But in this delicious caper, there’s only one question we need to answer:

What’s best for Christmas dinner— a whole turkey or a turkey crown?

Let’s examine the suspects.

Suspect One: The Whole Turkey

A traditionalist’s dream and the undisputed centrepiece of the festive table.

Why It Might Be the Mastermind

Iconic presentation: Nothing quite says Christmas like unveiling a fully roasted turkey, golden and glorious.

More meat overall: Ideal for larger families, or those who enjoy days of leftovers. (Thinking now of my wife's always delicious turkey curry!)

Dark and white meat options: Pleases a crowd, satisfying those who favour legs, thighs or breast.

Potential Motive for Mayhem

Size and oven logistics: A whole turkey can dominate your oven, demanding both space and attention.

Longer cooking time: Not the best accomplice if you're planning a relaxed Christmas morning.

Carving complexity: Requires a steady hand—and occasionally a YouTube refresher.

A whole turkey, then, is the extravagant art heist of Christmas dinner: dramatic, rewarding, but undeniably high commitment.

Suspect Two: The Turkey Crown

Sleek, elegant, efficient. The Pierce Brosnan of the poultry world.

Why It’s the Smooth Operator

Cooks more quickly: A crown is lighter, easier and far less stressful for busy Christmas hosts.

Simpler to carve: Especially helpful if you prefer serving without theatrics.

Breast meat focus: Perfect for diners who favour leaner, whiter meat.

Takes up less space: Leaving room for pigs in blankets, stuffing balls and that extra tray of roast potatoes.

Possible Downside

No dark meat: A dealbreaker for some.

Less leftovers: Unless you size up, the post-Boxing Day sandwich department may feel the loss.

Slightly pricier per kilo: Convenience often carries a premium.

The turkey crown is the smooth art-thief who gets in and out cleanly—no fuss, no feathers, no problem.

So Who Wins The Turkey Crown Affair?

Just like in The Thomas Crown Affair, the answer depends on what you value:

Choose a Whole Turkey if…

You’re serving 6–12 people.

Presentation and tradition matter to you.

You want both dark and white meat.

You enjoy leftovers, soups, curries and Boxing Day feasts.

Choose a Turkey Crown if…

You’re cooking for a smaller group (2–6 people).

You want a quicker, easier cooking experience.

You prefer white meat only.

Your oven space or schedule is limited.

Final Verdict

Both options can deliver a dazzling Christmas dinner, but the true winner of The Turkey Crown Affair is whichever gives you a stress-free, delicious, and perfectly timed festive feast.

Much like the elegant twists of the film itself, the secret lies not in the complexity of the plan, but in its execution.

Whether you unveil a whole bird with Hollywood flair or serve a perfectly cooked crown with effortless sophistication, you’re still the mastermind behind Christmas dinner.

And that’s a plot twist worth celebrating!

Cygnet Gin. From Wales, Ideal for Festive Gifting and Festive Feasting

Cygnet Founder Katherine Jenkins OBE

Cygnet Gin offers a trio of exceptional Welsh gins available with the ease and speed of Amazon delivery. 

Each bottle brings craftsmanship, purity and elegance to the forefront and is perfect for effortless gifting.

At the heart of every Cygnet expression is its botanicals. Each gin is distilled with carefully selected botanicals, ranging from Welsh-sourced ingredients to rare additions such as Manuka Honey.

Whether you’re gifting a seasoned spirits enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful, impressive present at the eleventh hour, or something special for your Christmas drink table, Cygnet transforms a last-minute purchase into something truly luxurious. The available bottles include:

Cygnet 22 – 70cl (44% ABV) - £54.90 on Amazon

Created for those who appreciate harmony and depth, Cygnet 22 brings together 22 botanicals chosen for finesse and flavour. The addition of Manuka honey lends a soft, velvety texture that elevates the entire profile, making it exceptional neat or over ice. A luxurious gift that feels special from the first sip. https://amzn.to/4oJEcHh

Cygnet 77 – 70cl (44% ABV) - £127.99 on Amazon

The pinnacle of the Cygnet collection, Cygnet 77 begins with the 22 botanical base resting for 55 weeks in Welsh whiskey barrels with added Manuka honey. The result is a rare and powerful spirit with extraordinary maturity and richness. For recipients who already ‘have everything’, this is a show-stopping last minute gift that leaves a last impression. https://amzn.to/4aG1daH

Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin – 70cl (40% ABV) - £39.99 on Amazon

A refined and modern expression of a classic dry gin, Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin is distilled using the purest Welsh water and a blend of 12 of the finest botnicals, creating a truly vibrant gin. The gin features a bright juniper supported by bold citrus and subtle florals. A beautifully balanced, versatile gin that makes an accessible yet elevated gift. https://amzn.to/44VJHeM

https://cygnet-distillery.com

Looking for Quality non-alcoholic wines? Fairtrade non-alcoholic wines are ideal

The month of January is often significant as the time when people abstain from drinking alcohol, to reset their relationship with alcohol and experience long term benefits. 

Co-op is proud to be able to offer two Fairtrade non-alcoholic wines that offer drinkers an alternative that not only tastes good but means better terms of trade for wine producers. 

The world’s largest Fairtrade wine producer, La Riojana, has just launched its first Fairtrade non-alcoholic wine, Tilimuqui Sparkling Zero, which is available to buy at 500 Co-op stores.  

On the palate, wine lovers can expect Tilimuqui to offer fine bubbles, zesty lime and juicy peace aromas, with a balanced sweetness and acidity. It’s the perfect aperitif and ideal for drinking and special occasions. 

La Riojana’s Export Director Walter Carol told That's Christmas: “We believe choosing not to drink alcohol shouldn’t mean compromising on taste or experience. 

"Tilimuqui Zero, in our opinion, makes no such compromise and has been created by us to be enjoyed by wine drinkers and non-wine drinkers alike.” 

 Carol continues, “With the growing demand for mindful drinking and alcohol-free alternatives, Tilimuqui Zero offers great value for money and provides wine lovers with a sophisticated option that compliments modern lifestyles.” 

Edward Robinson, Co-op Buyer, said: “Producing alcohol-free wines which retain the appeal and taste profile of the originals isn't easy, but this sparkling wine from Argentina has managed to do exactly that. 

"Celebrate in style with this elegant, fruit-forward fizz from Argentina, with none of the hangover. And as a Fairtrade product, proceeds from the sale of this wine support the running of a health centre in Argentina, benefitting thousands of people."

Fairtrade Premium is an extra payment on top of the Fairtrade Minimum Price paid to producers; producers decide how to use the payments through a democratically elected committee. 

Producers on Fairtrade wine farms have used their Fairtrade Premium to fund education and childcare initiatives that support children across different ages, from creches and aftercare facilities, to secondary schools, funding school facilities, meals, books, computers and uniforms. 

 La Riojana Co-op’s Tilimuqui Fairtrade Sparkling Zero

Tilimuqui Fairtrade Sparking Zero is a sophisticated 0% alcohol wine that has been made to deliver all the taste, aroma and sense of occasion of wine, without alcohol.  

RRP: £5 

Available from: 500 Co-op stores 

Cognato, South African non-alcoholic wine   

All though not a new wine product, this Cognato Chenin Blanc is a crisp yet fruity wine with hints of pear and freshly cut grass on the nose. It pairs well with seafood dishes, chicken or as a non-alcoholic drink before dinner. 

How to Make the Best Homemade Turkey Gravy for Christmas

A truly memorable Christmas dinner isn’t just about the turkey, the roasties, or even the sprouts with chestnuts. 

The secret star of the feast is the gravy, rich, velvety, savoury, and full of deep festive flavour. 

A good homemade turkey gravy ties the whole plate together, turning a nice meal into a spectacular one.

The best part? Making your own gravy is much easier than people think, and it transforms your Christmas dinner instantly. Here’s how to create a gravy worthy of your festive table.

Start with the Turkey Drippings

The most flavourful gravy always begins with the roasting tin. As your turkey cooks, the fat, juices, and caramelised bits gather in the bottom of the tray. These “drippings” are pure gold.

What to do:

Once your turkey is cooked, carefully pour everything from the roasting tin into a heatproof jug.

Let it settle for a couple of minutes. The fat will rise to the top.

Skim off most of the fat, but leave a tablespoon or two — that’s where the flavour sits.

If your turkey hasn’t released much liquid, don’t worry. A splash of boiling water or low-salt chicken stock in the roasting tin will help lift those gorgeous browned bits.

Make a Simple Roux Base

A roux gives your gravy body and silkiness.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp of turkey fat (or unsalted butter)

2 tbsp plain flour

Method:

Warm the fat or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste.

Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden — this removes any raw flour taste.

You’re now ready to build the gravy.

Add the Stock and Drippings

Slowly whisk in:

All the strained turkey juices

Enough hot chicken or turkey stock to reach your desired consistency (usually 500–700ml)

Add the liquid gradually to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until it’s glossy and smooth.

Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes. This is where the flavours deepen and the gravy thickens to perfection.

Optional Flavour Boosters

Not essential, but marvellous:

A splash of white wine – adds brightness and depth

A teaspoon of cranberry sauce – subtle sweetness

A dash of Worcestershire sauce – enhances savoury notes

Fresh herbs – thyme, rosemary, or sage

A knob of butter at the end – makes the gravy extra silky

Taste as you go. Adjust with salt and pepper, though your drippings may already be quite salty.

A Brilliant Tip: Roast Veg for Extra Depth

If you want a restaurant-style gravy:

Place chopped onions, carrots, and celery under the turkey as it roasts.

Once cooked, blend these soft, caramelised veg with a ladle of stock.

Strain into your gravy for an intensely rich flavour.

It’s an old chef’s trick and works beautifully at Christmas.

Keeping Your Gravy Warm Until Serving

Gravy cools quickly at the table. To avoid frantic reheating:

Pour it into a pre-warmed gravy boat

Wrap the base in a tea towel to insulate it

Or keep it in a small slow cooker on low until serving

Your guests will thank you.

Can You Make Christmas Gravy Ahead?

Absolutely — and it’s a lifesaver during the busy run-up to Christmas.

Make a batch of turkey gravy using stock from roasted turkey wings or legs.

Chill or freeze it.

On Christmas Day, simply reheat and enrich it with the fresh turkey drippings.

This gives you a stress-free festive meal.

Great gravy is comfort in a jug, savoury, warming, and deeply nostalgic. Making your own at Christmastime doesn’t just elevate the meal; it adds a touch of homemade magic that shop-bought versions simply can’t match.

Serve it generously over your turkey, roast potatoes, stuffing, Yorkshire puds, and everything else on the festive plate. It is Christmas, after all.

How to Make Delicious Homemade Eggnog for Christmas

There are some Christmas traditions that feel as timeless as fairy lights, mince pies, and watching the tree twinkle on a frosty evening. 

Eggnog is one of them. This luxurious, gently spiced festive drink has been enjoyed for centuries, and making it at home is far easier than many people imagine. 

Rich, velvety, and wonderfully warming, it’s the perfect treat for holiday gatherings, or for sipping quietly while wrapping presents.

Here’s how to create a batch of truly delicious homemade eggnog, tailored for the British kitchen.

Why Make Eggnog at Home?

Shop-bought eggnog is somewhat difficult to find in the UK, and when you do see it, it’s often overly sweet or lacking the silky richness people expect. Making your own allows you to:

Control the sweetness

Choose your spices

Use high-quality British cream and milk

Serve it alcohol-free or spiked

Create a show-stopping festive drink for guests

Plus, it fills your kitchen with a gorgeous aroma of nutmeg and vanilla, instantly Christmassy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these ingredients are already in the average Christmas kitchen:

4 fresh egg yolks

100g caster sugar

500ml whole milk

250ml double cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp ground nutmeg (plus extra to garnish)

Optional: 60ml dark rum, brandy, or bourbon

If you’d prefer to make a fully pasteurised version, you can gently cook the mixture—details below.

How to Make Traditional Eggnog

1. Whisk the yolks

In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until thick, pale, and creamy. This gives the finished eggnog its signature smoothness.

2. Warm the milk

In a saucepan, gently heat the milk, double cream, vanilla, and nutmeg until steaming but not boiling.

3. Temper the eggs

Pour a small amount of the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling. Gradually add the rest until fully combined.

4. (Optional) Cook for pasteurised eggnog

Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and heat gently, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly and reaches 71°C. Do not boil.

Remove from the heat immediately.

5. Add alcohol (optional)

If you’re making a grown-up version, stir in rum, brandy, or bourbon.

6. Chill

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Eggnog is best served icy cold with a dusting of nutmeg.

Alcohol-Free Eggnog for the Whole Family

Eggnog doesn’t need alcohol to be delicious. Omit the spirits and serve the chilled drink with:

A cinnamon stick

A swirl of lightly whipped cream

A sprinkle of nutmeg or cocoa

It becomes a cosy, custardy festive treat suitable for children and adults alike.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in glass mugs topped with freshly grated nutmeg

Add a splash of coffee for a “Christmas latte” twist

Pour into a festive jug for the Christmas breakfast table

Use leftover eggnog in French toast or bread-and-butter pudding

How Long Does Homemade Eggnog Keep?

If cooked to the safe 71°C and stored in a sealed container in the fridge, eggnog will keep for 2–3 days.

The uncooked version should be consumed within 24 hours.

Make Eggnog Part of Your Christmas Tradition

Homemade eggnog feels like a small luxury in the heart of winter, a creamy hug in a glass. Whether you enjoy it fireside, serve it to friends on Christmas Eve, or use it to add flair to your seasonal bakes, it’s a festive ritual worth bringing into your own home.