20 luxury drinks to enjoy this Christmas (2023) – UK & Europe edition
Welcome to our guide on some festive drinks to quench your thirst during the Christmas season. As the holiday spirit fills the air, enjoy this curated selection of beverages for an extra layer of merriment to your celebrations. Whether you’re seeking the ideal pairing for a cosy evening by the fireplace or a sparkling beverage to raise in a festive toast, join us in exploring the world of Christmas drinks that are sure to make your holiday gatherings merry and bright!
Christmas Gifts from The Whisky World
Experience the magic of The Whisky World‘s enchanted Christmas! Explore our extensive gift selection, from an array of whiskies, vodkas, gins, rums and champagnes, to luxurious gift sets, personalized engraved gifts, hampers and charming stocking fillers. Embrace the spirit of Christmas with our festive collection featuring Christmas-flavoured gins and whiskies, crackers and baubles, party-perfect spirits, party favours and champagnes, ensuring you’re all set for a splendid Christmas dinner.
Miniature Gin Collection from Warwickshire Gin Company
The best things come in small packages! Distilled using a small batch method in their distillery, the inspiration behind Warwickshire Gin Company’s award-winning drinks collections comes from a desire to capture a moment in history, developing flavours to truly represent the county’s own unique story and bringing the hand-crafted flavours to life. Their miniature gin gift pack is a particular favourite, containing 5cl bottles of all five of their signature gins presented in a beautiful gift box. There is also the added option of a tonic to accompany it and personalised sleeve options. Perfect size for your suitcase too!
Festive Spirits from Shed One Micro Distillery
Shed One – an atmospheric artisan micro distillery on the edge of the English Lake District – is known for its range of award-winning premium gins. However, this Christmas the small batch distillers have created a new gift range including delightful miniature flavoured botanical vodkas. Handmade with locally foraged botanicals, the vodkas – like the gins – come in an elegant fully recyclable personalised gift tube with a cocktail recipe card. Or for the traditional gin lovers, Festive Tipple with its seasonal sweet spice flavours of cinnamon, citrus, and clove, really is Christmas in a glass.
Vodkas from £22.95, 50cl, gins from £34.95, and bespoke hampers also available. Every order comes with an added festive drink surprise! Gin hampers are available from £25. Shed One plant a tree for every online order.
Christmas Spirit from Black Cow Vodka
The ultimate festive tipple, the recipe for Christmas Spirit from Black Cow Vodka was created at their kitchen table using an assortment of winter fruits and spices – brown sugar, currants, figs, raisins, orange zest, lemon zest, cinnamon and vanilla – all macerated in their Pure Milk Vodka. Drink it neat over ice, topped with Champagne, or mulled in hot cloudy apple juice.
Skinny Lager, Skinny Fruit Cider and Skinny IPA from SkinnyBrands
What says luxury more than premium drinks? Meet SkinnyBrands, the 89 calorie drinks brand home to Skinny Lager, Skinny Fruit Cider and Skinny IPA. These 4.0% ABV full-flavoured drinks are the perfect way to indulge in a full-flavour tipple, without compromising on the calories. Maybe you fancy an ice-cold glass of Skinny Fruit Cider, with half the calories of other fruit ciders and zero sugar to take to your next UK getaway. Or maybe you opt for cracking open a crisp Skinny Lager, with 35% fewer calories and 72% fewer carbohydrates than other premium lagers. The mixed case also contains Skinny IPA, with 40% fewer calories than other premium IPAs.
You can also order cases of each individual product on either the SkinnyBrands website and Amazon Prime. Skinny Lager is also available in Tesco and Morrisons’ free-from aisles and online. Whether you’re looking to cut the calories before your next big trip or a new exciting drinks brand to explore, this gluten-free and vegan range is ideal to try with your partner, friends or family. It won’t just be a holiday romance with SkinnyBrands, once you’ve made the switch to these great-tasting drinks with fewer calories – you won’t look back.
Festive Fizz Mixed Collection from Hambledon Vineyard
Craft the finest moments this Christmas with Hambeldon Vineyard‘s Festive Fizz Mixed Collection. This exclusive collection includes a mixed case of Hambledon Vineyard’s Finest English Fizz, plus six signature Hambledon Vineyard sparkling wine glasses, a branded bottle stopper for lasting freshness, and a limited edition scented candle from the Compass Candle Company— ideal for a fragrant touch and cozy warmth on chilly winter evenings.
Red Christmas Dozen from Tanners Wine Merchants
There is lots of variety in this dozen from Tanners Wine Merchants, from the lighter Portuguese Pacto and Spanish Pinot Noir, through Rocky Road’s svelte Shiraz, to the ripe rich flavours of Malbec and Primitivo. These reds will work well with a variety of dishes this Christmas.
The contents include: 2x Le Rouge Vigneron, Castelmaure, Corbières, France, 14.5%, 2x Cristóbal 1492 Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina, 13.5% (v), 2x Pacto Palhete, Douro Tinto, Carvalho Martins, Portugal, 12.5%, 2x Rocky Road Shiraz, Margaret River, McHenry Hohnen, Australia, 14%, 2x Carlomagno Primitivo Appassimento, Puglia, Italy, 14% (v), and 2x Castillo Monjardin Pinot Noir, El Cerezo, Navarra, Spain, 14%.
Cocktail Crackers from MOTH:
Get crackin’ with 4 ready to serve cocktails. All dressed up in their own chic MOTH: Cracker. Twinkle up the tablescape and treat your guests to some at-seat deliciousness, and some obligatory festive humour of course. Includes: 1x MOTH: Margarita; 1x MOTH: Piña Colada; 1x MOTH: Espresso Martini; and 1x MOTH: Negroni.
Christmas Black Tea from Fortnum & Mason
A warming combination of cocoa nibs, zesty clementine and soothing Christmas spices, Fortnum & Mason‘s Christmas Black Tea is best enjoyed beside a crackling fire with some all-butter shortbread. Delve straight into the festivities with a Fortnum & Mason yuletide brew perfect for warding off the winter chill.
Mulled Wine Syrup from Melrose and Morgan
The renowned mixologist Xhulio Sina has crafted Melrose and Morgan‘s 100% natural mulled wine syrup with the zesty citrus of orange and lemon with the warming festive notes of vanilla, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg for a wonderfully delicious syrup (50cl).
Party Kegs from Dunkertons Organic Cider
Five litres (or 8.8 pints) of sparkling organic award-winning cider from Dunkertons Organic Cider – perfect for parties and celebrations over the Christmas period. Available in Craft (5%): Refreshingly easy drinking but with the classic Dunkertons deep apple flavour and the perfect balance of acidity and tannins to deliver a moreish and well-rounded finish. Or in Black Fox (6%): Handcrafted with up to 14 different, carefully blended cider apple varieties to deliver a deliciously rounded cider with a lively, tangy finish and light honey hues.
Luxury Vintage Port & Stilton Cheese from 9 Elms Wines
Nothing says Christmas quite like port and cheese. This gift from 9 Elms Wines pairs an outstanding single quinta vintage port from Alves de Sousa, with a delicious potted stilton in a ceramic jar, from Paxton & Whitfield. Delivered in a festive gift case, courtesy of 9 Elms Wines.
Case of Kings Cuvée 2015 from Hattingley Valley
Aged in oak barrels for seven months and matured for six years on the lees, this premium Hattingley Valley Cuvée has a remarkable depth and smoothness, with a delightfully long and creamy finish.
Ready to Drink Christmas Cocktail from Giraffe Cocktails
Giraffe Cocktails are serious about cocktails. These aren’t your 4% supermarket cans — they’re full-strength classics. Unlike other brands, their cocktails are mixed in house using premium ingredients. Premixed, just pour directly from the tap. No need to splash big on spirits. Grab it on the way to the party. Get it to your door.
This special wine was really, an accidental discovery when a barrel from the first vintage had been overlooked and aged for twice the length of the others. Luckily, the winemakers were curious and found the result to be truly sensational. Since then, the Kings Cuvée has become an important premium wine in the Hattingley Valley collection, perfect for special occasions or when one is feeling just a little bit fancy.
Old & Rare Whisky Advent Calendar from Nickolls & Perks
Treat yourself or a loved one to the ultimate whisky gift this Christmas – from Nickolls & Perks. The Old & Rare Whisky Advent Calendar does exactly what it says on the tin, with 24 x 3cl bottles of exceptionally rare drams, from inaugural releases of new distilleries that sold out within minutes of launching, to whiskies from some of the biggest names in the industry that have been aged for over 40 years; complete with a stunning whisky tasting glass. Christmas is a time for reflection and introspection, so what better way to spend it than imbibing history.
Festive Spice Hot Chocolate Gift Set from Knoops
Knoops‘ festive spice hot chocolate set is the ultimate wintery hot chocolate gift. Alongside their pouch of festive spice mix, you’ll find a tube of their best selling 34% Milk hot chocolate flakes and smooth, mellow 54% Dark hot chocolate flakes to make the ultimate festive hot chocolates at home.
Organic Mixed Case from Samuel Smith Old Brewery
Get Christmas off to a bang with this organic mixed case from Samuel Smith Old Brewery. It contains 12 x 550ml bottles in total, consisting of 2 Pure Brewed Organic Lager, 2 Organic Pale Ale, 2 Organic Chocolate Stout, 2 Organic Wheat Beer, 2 Organic Cider and 2 Organic Perry.
1086 Rosé 2013 from Nyetimber
The 1086 Rosé 2013 from Nyetimber demonstrates elegance, structure and complexity balanced in perfect harmony. Delicate salmon pink with a very fine mousse. Evocative aromas of wild strawberry and red apple are elevated by complex cream and floral notes. On the palate, a pure crystalline core beautifully complements the textured fresh red fruit and subtle brioche characters which combine in a long luxurious finish.
A wine of extraordinary character and grace, 1086 Rosé is the finest expression of rosé crafted at Nyetimber. Produced only in the best years from Nyetimber’s most impressive parcels. Grapes: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay.
Christmas Gift (12 Months Coffee) from Martelli Giovanni
Indulge in a coffee adventure like no other with Martelli Giovanni‘s exclusive Christmas campaign. They’re delighted to present to you the “Coffee Joy of the Season” subscription, a unique gift that keeps giving for 12 months! Every month, for a whole year, you’ll receive a carefully curated 250g bag of their finest coffee. But here’s the twist – each month brings a new and exciting coffee blend, ensuring that your taste buds are in for an ever-evolving coffee journey.
Christmas Mead from Lyme Bay Winery
Crafted with care and precision, this Christmas mead from Lyme Bay Winery captures the essence of the holiday season in every sip. The infusion of warm, aromatic spices creates a delightful flavours, evoking memories of crackling fires and festive gatherings. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed in solitude, this exquisite honey wine promises to be a cherished companion, adding a touch of warmth and joy to your Christmas celebrations.
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Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Daily Telegraph.
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I’ve been waiting for this!
For health reasons I drink very little. The same can’t be said for our guests over Christmas and New Year. They are very discerning when it comes to a drink and I’m grateful for any help I can get.
Hi Suzy – It’s always nice to have a bit of variety for guests, especially during the festive season. Cheers to a fantastic Christmas and New Year’s celebration!
Seeing the Red Christmas selection it makes me think that we might have been playing a bit save with our reds buying. Time to spread our wings beyond Malbec and Merlot.
There’s a whole world of reds out there waiting to be explored, Rob! If you come across any gems, I’m sure readers would love to hear your recommendations…
There are some very interesting options here. What I like about these round-ups is that they make me think out of the box. I’ll
probably buy some drinks recommended on here that I wouldn’t normally have thought of if I were pushing a trolley round the supermarket.
Hi Freya – .I couldn’t agree more! It’s so easy to get stuck in a routine at the supermarket, but hopefully these recommendations shake things up a bit. If you stumble upon any hidden gems, feel free to share! 🥂
If you quickly click through on the link to The Whisky World website you might be able to get a Cyber Monday bargain.
It’s now Tuesday and there are still deals there!
It’s been a great Gin Year for my wife. She’s tried so many different gins this year, with some very unusual flavours, and I know that she’d love to try some more from the Warwickshire Gin Company at Christmas.
Hi Julian – Here’s to more gin delights and a Merry Christmas for you both! 🍸🎄
Last Christmas we had an unusual problem. On our trip to Porto and the Douro Valley we’d got over excited and bought rather a lot of port.
We decided to make the most of it and host a cheese and port evening for our neighbours which once we added in some grapes, figs, nuts, chutney and biscuits was a real success. Very little preparation, no getting up and down to serve courses and not much clearing up at all.
Seeing the offer from 9 Elms wines on cheese and port would give us the chance to do it again.
Sounds like fun, Roger! Here’s to more spontaneous and successful gatherings with good company! 🍇🧀🍷
Thank you for this great selection I always feel that I have to make the most of a drink or two over Christmas and the New Year.
Come 1st January my wife and daughter are insistent that we do Dry January. The Prohibition Police monitor our drinks cabinet and complain if I even look longingly at it!
You’re welcome, Tom! It’s always a challenge to balance the festive spirit with post-New Year resolutions.
We hosted a cocktail evening once and it didn’t work well. I couldn’t keep up with the orders from our guests and I didn’t get to see them as much as I would have liked. No doubt that cocktails in a can is the way to go.
That sounds like quite a juggling act, Hamish! It’s understandable that you’d want to spend time with your guests rather than being stuck behind the bar. Cocktails in a can are a brilliant solution – easy and still full of flavour.
Do Martelli Giovanni give any idea or “tasters” of what we could expect with a 12 month subscription?
For instance, should we expect a coffee for iced coffee in the summer?
Good question, Sara – I don’t know exactly but they do say that you’ll never get the same coffee twice, and that you’ll also be supporting ethical and sustainable coffee practices
There are a lot of brands here that you wouldn’t find in a supermarket or on the average high street.
Hi Moyà – I must admit, I don’t get out to high streets very often nowadays. I find it so much easier online.
Considering how much wine and whisky I’ve downed over the decades I’ve learnt very little about what’s good and what’s not. Always ready to hear some insider tips.
Hi Gerald – I hope you are able to stumble upon some new favourites from within this list.
It’s nice to be able to offer some special drinks at this time of the year and there’s some very special offerings here. Our guests always appreciate trying something new.
I must confess, I often find myself going back to things that I know I love… but you’re right, it’s good to try something new once in a while!
Do we know how Dunkerton go about producing their organic cider? How can they get good results without using pesticides etc ?
From their website:
Picking bottles of bubbly for the festive season has never been one of my strengths, far too often I’ve paid over the odds for some bottles that have been ordinary at best. Hambledon Vineyard could be my saviour this year with their Mixed Collection of Fizz.
You’re right, Andre… it’s all too easy to assume that the more you spend equals the better you get. That’s often not the case. And IMHO, you can often pay a lot extra just for the name ‘Champagne’ – there are lots of great Cavas and Proseccos out there at a fraction of the price.
It was only last week that I thought that our drinks cabinet was in need of a refresh before the festive season.
Loads of great suggestions here to really pep it up as the cabinet is far too sparse to get through the next month.
Glad to be of help, Charlotte! Hope you are able to find a few treats here to top up your cabinet!
Love the idea of the mini gins. You can get a taste without having to commit to the whole bottle.
Also good for travel, of course. It’s much easier to take a miniature on a train journey, say, than a full bottle (unless it’s a very long train journey!).
My children, all now in their 20s, probably drink considerably less than we did at their age. It also seems that they go for quality rather than quality. Though having said that they relax when they’re back home and enjoy some drinks with us. Hopefully, I should be able to find plenty on here that they’ll appreciate.
In my household, our kids barely drink at all. In fact, one of them – he is very focussed on his sport as you may have read before – doesn’t drink at all. Not even soft drinks… only water. Having said that, he has plenty of friends who more than make up for his abstinence!!
It looks as if Black Cow Vodka have got their own extravagant take on Baileys over ice with a very decadent list of ingredients in their Christmas Spirit.
Indeed, Sally. Personally, I like the thought of it mulled in hot cloudy apple juice.
It’s been a tough year for many of us with prices on the up and earnings not keeping up. Let’s hope that ALTB readers can treat themselves to at least one or two of these tipples and raise a glass to a better 2024.
My understanding is that spend for drinks consumed at home has actually gone up (apparently) because people have been choosing to go out less.
There’s so much more choice of drinks than Christmas when I was a boy. The men used to commit GBH on a Watney’s Party Four can with a hammer and chisel. Old ladies either had a port and lemon or a sherry. My Mum had a snowball and I was given a very, very weak snowball which was 98% lemonade. Young ladies thought they were being highly sophisticated when they asked for a BabyCham. Times have certainly changed for the better.
Bit alarmed by your second sentence, Ivor! Committing GBH with a hammer and chisel or using those implements to open the cans??? 😲
It’s so good to see English wines on the up after so many years of scepticism from the wine gurus.
I’ve had a glass or two from Hattingley Valley and they should be very proud of their product.
I’ve got a feeling that with changing weather patterns we’re going to be hearing a lot more good news about Hattingley Valley over the next few years.
Yes, people’s views on English wines have most definitely changed over the last decade or two. Obviously, many of the vines are better established now, and no doubt the skills have the growers have improved, but I wonder also if climate change has had a part to play in all of this.
There are drinks here that I didn’t even know existed. I’ve ordered a few. They’ll be real ice-breakers at our Xmas dos getting everyone talking.
That’s great to hear, Jane – I hope you enjoy them and have a great Christmas!
Whisky World could be my first port of call when looking for Christmas presents for my husband. He loves collecting different whiskies.
You would be hard-pushed to find a better selection than on Whisky World! 👍
Mulled wine is one of the great seasonal tastes. Getting some mulled wine syrup might help me to do it properly for once.
So soothing and enjoyable on a cold winter’s night!
I’ve got a group of school friends coming for lunch on the 29th. There were some summer holidays of under-age drinking in Somerset where we consumed some very rough local ciders. I’m tempted to get that organic cider to reminder them how much things have moved on (improved?) now that we’re all in our mature 50s.
Hi Dennis – I would imagine that offering will be a significant improvement on whatever you were drinking in your youth! 😂