As the festive season approaches, it’s time to raise a glass and spread some holiday cheer.
Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, planning cosy nights in, or looking for the perfect giftable bottle, our curated list of the best Christmas drinks will ensure your celebrations are merry, bright, and full of flavour.
December is the perfect time to indulge in festive cocktails, sparkling wines, and seasonal spirits that capture the joy of the holidays. After all, there’s no fun in embracing Dry January without first making the most of December! So let’s bid farewell to 2025 with glowing cheeks and clinking glasses, surrounded by the people we love most — with a few festive nibbles thrown in for good measure. Cheers to that!
Taittinger Brut Prestige Rosé NV with glasses gift box
Uniquely packaged in clear glass to show off its pretty pink hues and paired with two glasses, this gift set is perfect for a special occasion or celebration. Taittinger Rose is a vibrant rosé with a vivid aroma of red summer fruit, enticing wild strawberry and raspberry will dominate the stylish and elegant palate. £65 John Lewis
Etan Rum
In the world of fine spirits, Étän Rum stands out not just for its award-winning golden spiced flavour, but for the heartfelt story behind its creation. This exceptional rum is the brainchild of five sisters—Laura, Briget, Noella, Caroline, and Kareen—who drew deeply from their Cameroonian roots to craft a product that is as rich in heritage as it is in taste.
The name Étän, meaning “five” in Mungaka, a dialect spoken in their parents’ homeland of Cameroon, symbolises the sisters’ unshakable bond and dedication to family unity. Together, they embarked on a months-long journey of tasting, refining, and debating to perfect a rum that embodies the cultural diversity and vibrancy of Cameroon—a true melting pot of ethnic influences.
Every bottle of Étän Rum invites consumers to embrace a story of family, dedication, and a touch of spice—proof that dreams can come true. And if that doesn’t fill your heart with Christmas cheer, nothing will! £41 threshers.co.uk or visit etanrum.co.uk
Cygnet Gin – The Gift of Botanical Luxury
Cygnet 77 – £127.99 Luxury in a bottle, Cygnet 77 is the crowning jewel of the Cygnet collection – and a guaranteed showstopper under the tree. Rested for 55 weeks in Welsh whiskey barrels and infused with rare Manuka honey, this gin boasts remarkable maturity, richness, and complexity. Every sip tells a story of craftsmanship, from the 22 botanical base to its deep, velvety finish. Whether you’re gifting a connoisseur or making a bold statement with a last-minute present, Cygnet 77 delivers elegance, rarity, and undeniable wow-factor.
Cygnet 22 – £54.90 Crafted with 22 carefully selected botanicals, Cygnet 22 is all about harmony and depth. The addition of Manuka honey brings a soft, velvety mouthfeel, elevating this gin to something truly memorable – whether served neat, over ice, or in a crisp G&T. It’s a luxurious gift that feels indulgent from the first sip. cygnet-distillery.com
Champagne Bruno Paillard’s “Cuvee 72”
This exquisite cuvée is a true celebration of time, craftsmanship, and elegance. Released to mark 40 years since the creation of Maison Bruno Paillard’s Perpetual Reserve, “Cuvée 72” is a remarkable expression of the house’s flagship Première Cuvée, aged for a total of 72 months—36 before disgorgement and 36 after. The result? A Champagne that’s refined, complex, and gracefully matured.
Expect a golden hue, delicate bubbles, and a beautifully layered nose of citrus, white flowers, and subtle spice. The palate is alive with zesty freshness, silky texture, and a long, creamy finish that lingers like the perfect festive toast. Whether you’re marking a special moment or simply want to sip something exceptional this Christmas, Cuvée 72 is a bottle worth unwrapping. £67 from Hedonism Wines Mayfair and Wanderlust Wine
*** Christmas Eve Wine & Nibbles Gift Basket ***
Transform Christmas Eve into an indulgent night to remember with a luxury gift hamper designed for the perfect festive evening in. Imagine the glow of the fire, a cosy blanket, and a delicious selection of treats to share with loved ones.
At the heart of this exceptional hamper is a rich and velvety Malbec from Gauchezco Estates, a fine red wine to grace your table this season. Paired beautifully with this outstanding wine are two irresistible cheddar cheeses: the bold and mature ‘Rock Star’ from Snowdonia and the decadently creamy truffle and black pepper cheddar from The Mouse House. The indulgence doesn’t stop there. The hamper also features award-winning salami from Tempus Charcuterie, a luxurious duck rillette, and an array of gourmet crisps and snacks to complete the experience. Each item has been carefully chosen to delight the palate and make the evening extra special.
Presented in a stunning hand-packed willow tray, this elegant gift is the perfect Christmas treat for those looking to unwind and savour the magic of the season as a thoughtful present or a personal indulgence. £89 hampers.com
Tayēr + Elementary – Xmas Essentials 2.0 Ready-to-Drink Gift Set
If you’re craving cocktail bar quality without the bar tab (or the queue), award-winning Old Street hotspot Tayēr + Elementary has you covered this Christmas. Back by popular demand, their Xmas Essentials gift set returns for 2025 with a fresh twist—three brand new festive flavour profiles, each one crafted to sip like a seasonal dream.
Created by globally acclaimed mixologists Monica Berg and Alex Kratena, this year’s limited-edition trio includes:
- Roasted Chestnut Old Fashioned – A fireside-ready blend of Armagnac, Linie Aquavit, walnut and roasted chestnut. Rich, smooth, and smoky, with a toasty finish.
- Tangerine Negroni – A zesty seasonal spin made with Linie Aquavit, Campari, Noilly Prat and Martini Rosso, brightened with tangerine for a wintery citrus kick.
- Gingerbread Sour – Like Christmas in a glass. Dewar’s White Label and Ardbeg 10-Year-Old whisky meet spiced gingerbread, sherry, and a dash of lemon.
Presented in minimalist 100ml bottles (ideal for gifting or solo sipping), these expertly blended cocktails bring festive bar vibes straight to your door. RRP: £35 for the set of three. Available via tayer-elementary.com
Zonin Prosecco Brut DOC Millesimato 2024
Nothing says celebration quite like a crisp glass of Prosecco, and this vintage-style bottle from one of Italy’s most historic winemaking families is made for festive toasts. Crafted by the Zonin family – who have been producing fine wines for over two centuries – the Zonin Prosecco Brut DOC Millesimato 2024 brings Italian elegance to your Christmas table.
Expect enticing aromas of Rennet apple and wisteria flowers, with a whisper of almond on the finish. It’s refreshingly dry, well-balanced, and perfect as an aperitif or served alongside light starters, seafood, or veggie canapés. Available at Partridges for £19.99, this refined sparkling wine brings both tradition and sparkle to any seasonal soirée.
ITALICUS and Savoia – Spritz Season, Reimagined
For the cocktail lovers in your life – especially those leaning towards low-ABV or plant-based options – this trio of Italian aperitivos offers something seriously stylish. Not only are they 100% vegan and gorgeously bottled, but they’ve also scooped Platinum at the Plant-Based Excellence Awards, making them as thoughtful as they are flavourful.
ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto is your go-to for an elevated, citrus-forward spritz. It brings a refreshing balance of Calabrian bergamot and floral notes that transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast.
Savoia Americano Rosso is a rich, bittersweet vino aperitivo that blends over 24 botanicals – think bitter orange, pink grapefruit, rhubarb, and warming spices like cardamom and ginger – with a touch of Marsala wine. It’s bold, beautifully balanced, and tailor-made for negronis and festive tipples.
Then there’s Savoia Orancio, a vibrant homage to Venetian spice traders, combining orange wine with zesty citrus, herbs and exotic spices. It’s a winter warmer with a Mediterranean soul – perfect for sipping solo or mixing into a golden-hued spritz. Elegant, ethical, and effortlessly chic – these bottles are Christmas cocktail goals.
Italicus Italian Bergamot Aperitivo £32 Waitrose Cellar | Savoia Americano £22 Masters of Malt | Savoia Orancio £22 The Whiskey Exchange
*** PLAYin CHOC Christmas ToyChoc Box Gift Set ***
Looking for a sweet treat with a playful twist? The PLAYin CHOC Christmas Gift Set is a festive favourite that blends delicious, organic chocolate with sustainable fun—perfect for little ones (and big kids at heart).
Each charming box contains two creamy, allergen-free, vegan chocolates plus a collectable 3D puzzle toy and a fun fact card. This complete set includes all six Christmas characters—Snowman, Reindeer, Elf, Tree, Gingerbread, and, of course, Santa—making it a joyful alternative to Christmas crackers, ideal as stocking fillers or as a thoughtful last-minute gift.
Whether you’re after a more ethical, educational treat or something fun for the dinner table, these ToyChoc Boxes bring a little magic to every festive moment. £15 playinchoc.com
Ca’ Bolani Sauvignon Blanc 2024
For those who love an aromatic white, this elegant Italian Sauvignon Blanc is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Grown in the heart of Friuli—between the Alps and the Adriatic—Ca’ Bolani Sauvignon Blanc 2024 comes from one of Northern Italy’s most celebrated estates, where winemaking dates back to Roman times.
Surrounded by 999 cypress trees and thriving biodiversity, the estate’s unique terroir produces grapes that are rich in flavour yet refreshingly crisp. This vintage bursts with character: think pink grapefruit, passionfruit, and white peach layered with hawthorn, tomato leaf, and a touch of sage. Its lively acidity brings freshness and finesse to every sip. Available for £24.95 at Shepherds Food in Primrose Hill, this is a perfect choice for seafood feasts, festive starters, or simply raising a glass in good company.
Havana Club x Martine Rose Limited Edition Añejo 7 Años
If you’re after a party-starting bottle with both flavour and flair, look no further than this high-fashion collab between legendary Cuban rum brand Havana Club and London’s own style disruptor Martine Rose.
Just in time for the festive season, Havana Club Añejo 7 Años gets a bold new look, wrapped in Rose’s signature street-luxe aesthetic. Think: holographic foils, gold accents, vibrant tile-inspired graphics and her handwritten design notes etched into the label. It’s more than just a bottle—it’s a collectable, wearable piece of Caribbean-meets-British culture, dripping in style and storytelling.
Inside? The award-winning Añejo 7 remains untouched—deep, smooth, and rich in flavour. It’s made for stirring up a Havana Rum Punch, sipping neat, or gifting to your most stylish mate. With only limited bottles available and a growing buzz across fashion and spirits circles, this is the drinks drop of the season. Heritage meets hype, and we’re here for it. RRP: £30 via Waitrose
*** Chilli No. 5 Hot Sauce Challenger Set – £40 ***
Turn up the temperature this Christmas with the Hot Sauce Challenger Set from Chilli No. 5 – a global adventure in liquid spice packed into 12 sleek 25ml tubes. From punchy breakfast kicks to late-night snack attacks, these gourmet chilli sauces are crafted in small batches with ingredients sourced from Italy and the South of France. Each one is designed to complement your favourite festive foods – think roasts, Christmas leftovers, cheese boards, and more.
With over 30 Great Taste Award stars between them, this set isn’t just hot – it’s haute. But be warned: the heat level climbs with every country. It’s the perfect stocking filler, table game, or party gift for spice lovers ready to test their limits. How far can you go? Buy online for £40 – 12 x 25ml tubes
Caorunn Gin – £30 with Free Personalised Labels
Elevate your gin game this Christmas with Caorunn – a premium small-batch gin handcrafted in the Scottish Highlands. Distilled in the world’s only working Copper Berry Chamber, Caorunn delivers maximum flavour through a blend of five wild-foraged local botanicals, including rowan berry, dandelion, and coul blush apple, alongside six traditional gin botanicals and pure Scottish water.
Their Classic Gin (£30) offers a crisp, aromatic profile that’s perfect in a festive G&T or winter Negroni. And for an extra special touch, you can add a FREE personalised label – making this an ideal stocking filler or Secret Santa gift that’s equal parts thoughtful and delicious. Locally foraged, expertly crafted, perfectly gifted.
Domaine Bousquet Finca Lalande Organic Malbec 2024
Looking to add a sustainably bold red to your Christmas table? Domaine Bousquet’s Finca Lalande Organic Malbec 2024 is a standout choice. Hailing from Argentina’s pioneering regenerative organic winery – and one of only a handful worldwide to hold both ROC™ and B Corp certifications – this bottle is as ethical as it is elegant.
Expect deep blackberry aromas, black pepper spice, and a touch of cassis on the nose. The palate follows through with layered red and black fruits, silky tannins, and a plush, lingering finish that’s perfect for festive roasts, especially rich red meat dishes. At just £12 from Waitrose, it’s a brilliant balance of quality, value, and conscience – a Christmas dinner winner.
*** Lily O’Brien’s Limited-Edition Christmas Desserts Collection – £15 ***
Bring the sweet spirit of the season to life with this indulgent box of 22 chocolates featuring festive favourites like Spiced Latte, Zesty Orange, Triple Chocolate Shot, and Berry Eton Mess. Perfect for gifting or sharing after dinner, this one’s made for the friend who’s just a little bit extra – in all the right ways. Available from: lilyobriens.co.uk and Morrisons, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream – The Sweet Side of Kentucky
Bring a little Southern charm to your Christmas with Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream – a rich, velvety liqueur crafted from the award-winning Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This indulgent treat combines creamy vanilla with smooth bourbon warmth, delivering a satisfyingly sweet finish.
Perfect chilled, poured over ice, or stirred into your festive coffee – this one’s your go-to for dessert in a glass or a fireside nightcap. A crowd-pleasing bottle for bourbon lovers and sweet tooths alike. £22 RRP Available from Tesco, Amazon, Master of Malt & more
*** Sweet Dill Pickle Chips by Pickle Project ***
Not your average pickles. These award-winning Sweet Dill Pickle Chips are crunchy, tangy, and made using ultrasonic tech (yes, really!) to infuse flavours like dill, cardamom and liquorice root right into the cucumber. Created by a fried chicken-loving restaurateur from North London, they’ve become a surprise festive favourite in our house—perfect alongside Christmas leftovers or a strong cheese board. Available at Ocado, £6.99.
Shanky’s Whip Golden Ostrich Trophy Bottle – Limited Edition
Looking for a Christmas gift with serious wow-factor? Say hello to Shanky’s Whip’s limited-edition Golden Ostrich Trophy Bottle – a 70cl collector’s masterpiece that combines rich Irish liqueur with fantastical design.
Inspired by the mythical tale of Shanky, the rebellious jockey who raced to victory on an ostrich, this sculpted gold ceramic bottle is shaped like a trophy-worthy ostrich head. It’s luxurious, imaginative, and made to stand out on the shelf.
Inside, you’ll find Shanky’s signature Irish liqueur, blended and bottled in County Cavan. It’s a decadent mix of aged Irish whiskey, vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch, finished with a smooth spice and a creamy mouthfeel. Vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, it’s a festive crowd-pleaser with bold personality and silky character (33% ABV). The perfect gift for collectors, creatives, and anyone who likes their liqueur with a side of storytelling. A true conversation starter.
Plumpton Estate Wines
Crafted in the heart of East Sussex, Plumpton Estate Wines are the product of the UK’s Centre of Excellence in Wine Education – Plumpton College. These boutique, hand-harvested wines reflect a deep commitment to quality and education, making them a thoughtful gift for any wine lover this season.
Highlights include the NEW Plumpton Estate Bacchus Reserve (£26), an elegant, aromatic white with crisp citrus notes and floral finesse – perfect for seafood starters or a refined aperitif. And don’t miss the Plumpton Estate Brut Rosé (£27), an award-winning English sparkling with delicate red berry aromas and a refined mousse – ideal for festive toasts and Christmas mornings alike. Support homegrown wine – and sip with purpose.
*** Seasons Joy Hamper with Prosecco and Red Wine ***
Embrace the festive spirit with this exquisite Season’s Joy Hamper with Prosecco, a Christmas treasure trove filled with delectable treats and fine wines. This hamper is the perfect way to celebrate the yuletide season, offering a carefully selected array of artisanal delights. At the heart of this hamper, you’ll find a sparkling Mionetto Orange Label Prosecco, ideal for toasting to holiday cheer. Accompanying this Italian fizz is a robust Wolf Blass Eaglehawk Shiraz, a full-blooded red that’s perfect for cosy winter evenings. The hamper also includes a variety of savoury and sweet treats to complement your Christmas festivities. Savour the rich flavours of Claire’s Handmade Sweet Piccalilli and crisp Yorkshire Crisps with Natural Sea Salt. The Stag Stornoway Caramel Butter Shortbread and Cotswold Gourmet Christmas Pudding are sure to satisfy those with a sweet tooth. Indulge in a touch of luxury with the Lindt Swiss Luxury Chocolate Selection and the Cotswold Gourmet Milk Chocolate Pudding Bar as you relax by the fire. All these delights are nestled within a hand-made lidded willow picnic basket with integrated handles, making it both practical and presentable. £100 Regency Hampers
