Christmas can be the most exciting time of the year, but finding the perfect gift is a challenge which only grows with each passing celebration, Because we know that finding something both quality and unique for loved ones is far easier said than done, we’ve come up with our own list of iconic gifts and treats for you to consider. For this guide, we’re focused primarily on drinks and tasty treats to either gift or enjoy for yourself over the Christmas period.
- PLAYin Choc Calendar
To cover the festive season, our iconic Christmas Calendar of choice would be the offering from PLAYin CHOC. Organic, vegan, and as allergen-free as one can hope for (concerning soy, gluten, dairy, and also low-sugar), not only does PLAYin CHOC help you to feel good about a responsible purchase as a parent, but it’s calendar truly stands out from the crown. Unlike more basic calendars, this unique little treat not only includes your usual daily chocolates, but also 3D puzzle toys, fun facts, and impressive animal theming. What’s more, the whole calendar can even be opened up entirely into a play area for the full roster of toys when you’re done!
- Rita Farhi Hot Chocolate Bombs & 6 Way Box
While Christmas Calendars fill a very clear niche of daily treats, it’s also good to ensure you indulge appropriately during those cold nights when a sweet treat can make all the difference. We tried both Rita Farhi’s offering of Hot Chocolate Bombs and its 6 Way Box, with both impressing in the sheer quality and (in particular for the bombs) powerful flavour. The 6 Way Box, while more delicate in each of the six variations, offers more of a traditional gift box, but with a different spin to the norm.
- Niederegger Marzipan
Although we’re huge fans of marzipan, it’s rare for us to see either marzipan ever really stand out from other products on the market. But that’s where Niederegger is rather different. Now world famous, Niederegger’s offers a host of gift ideas, including loaves of marzipan through to iconic gift boxes and even marzipan advent calendars! We’d strongly recommend either the Marzipan Klassiker Black & White selection as a beautiful gift to those who’d like to see what the top-end of the marzipan market is capable of, or Niederegger’s very own marzipan advent calendar for true addicts!
- Hedgepig Gin: Glorious Gooseberry & Zesty Elderflower
Christmas is the perfect time to settle down with an alcoholic cocktail or neat drink to take the edge off and add a little warmth by the fire. Although there are many premium, quality gins on the market, we found Hedgepig Gin to offer a very interesting combination of flavours and profiles to give you something a little different. In particular, we’d strongly recommend the Glorious Gooseberry gin as the perfect accompaniment to cheeses and desserts, while the Zesty Elderflower, with it’s much milder but elegant tones, serves as the ideal tipple for cocktail experimentation or a simple G&T.
- Stirrd Fudge
Although most of the items on this list are one-off treats, we thought the offering from Stirrd justifiably meets the criteria as a one-off gift, but also forms part of a very interesting subscription service. Perhaps some of the nicest fudge we’ve had the pleasure of trying, the Stirrd subscription incorporates monthly handmade fudge, with seasonal flavours, to be provide direct to the gift recipients letterbox. Not only will these treats make an impression on the day, but it’ll also be the gift that keeps on giving.
- Bolney Bubbly
Known for its zest, Bolney Bubbly comes out of the renown Bolney Wine Estate and offers something slightly different, and incredibly tempting for your Christmas tipple. Carrying notes of citrus, honeysuckle, and elderflower, Bolney Bubbly is able to stand toe to toe with many of the premium champagnes on the market thanks to its smooth, elegant sweetness. The difference? Bolney Bubbly is available at a fraction of the price of these competitors, not only allowing you to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank, but potentially doing so with a case rather than a bottle or two.
- Brick Brewery Beer
What Christmas lift would be complete without some craft beer to get you through the holidays? This time around we’d love to suggest Brick Brewery’s wonderful selection of pils, pales, ryes, and IPAs. Each tipple comes with a unique, alluring aroma (through the iconic addition of hops), but otherwise constitutes a lovely little staple, quality beer to expand your repertoire of known-beers. Each tipple comes with a unique, alluring aroma (through the iconic addition of hops), but otherwise constitutes a lovely little staple, quality beer to expand your repertoire of known-beers. If you want to finish the gift, why not buy some personalised pyjamas to go with them?
- Montezuma Chocolate Bar Collection
We’re always happy to promote and suggest British chocolate, and Montezuma’s is this Christmas’ perfect treat for you and your family. Although a wide range of chocolates are obviously on offer through Montezuma, this year includes the brand’s chocolate library, complete with wintery theme. Flavours are also seemingly tailored towards the indulgent nature of Christmas, but we’d strongly encourage you to venture out, explore the collection, and see what you can find! For us, the Rum & Raisin is potentially our take-away favourite for with a peaceful and relaxing drink.