It is, of course, the time of year for apparently endless celebrations.
First and foremost, we would advocate JOMO at this, and all times of the year- always remember that you don’t have to go to every party you’re invited to. Similarly, keep an eye out for a sister piece to this with some of the amazing non-alcoholic brands doing delicious and exciting things. That said, we firmly believe that if you fancy something to celebrate, it’s key to drink better, not more. Remember as well that all of this is subjective; the best drink you’ll have is the one you enjoy most, with old friends and family, or unwinding as all calms down post festivities. With that in mind, here are a few personal favourites (albeit with a disproportionately Scottish slant to many of these) to enjoy at home for the perfect Festive evening.
An amazing, versatile coffee liqueur from the incredible Mothership, who also make an outstanding rum (Sea Wolf) and a delicious Gin Liqueur (Braemble) amongst other amazing liquids, as well as running three of my favourite bars (Lucky Liquor, The Last Word and Bramble). None of that matters a jot to enjoying the damn fine, rich Cross Brew though. Check their site for inspiration, or enjoy over tonic, cherry cola or coconut water and ice. If in doubt, there are few things in life more joyous than the pop of a cork, assuming the liquid post is suitably memorable. Moet & Chandon is an absolute benchmark champagne for a very good reason. Vibrant, with citrus and apple notes, and as instantly recognisable now as it was 150 years ago. At the risk of being reductive, possibly the ultimate Christmas tipple, lovingly distilled a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle. Delicious orange notes, warm spice and the inclusion of frankincense and myrrh should you be in any doubt as to this gin’s impeccable Christmas credentials.
£35.00 ‘Bright, fresh and perfect for the Christmas dinner table’ in the words of a markedly more knowledgeable pal than I. Red berries, cherries on the nose, dark fruits, pepper and good vibes on the palate. I was tempted to plump for the wonderful Quinta Ruban with its port finish, but this covers the bases in an amazing way. Try the Quinta and the Lasanta, aged in sherry butts, and savour the perfectly balanced Original. A stunning malt for any occasion as fruits, vanilla and spice mingle perfectly. A sparkling organic Italian red, served chilled? Don’t worry unduly about the conventions of food matching, this is an absolute wonder whatever you fancy. Slightly dry, with amazing berry flavours, this is a left-field treat. For the uninitiated Old Pulteney make beautiful ‘maritime malts’, which are well worth discovering. This is less well-known, but an absolute treat after dinner, over ice, as a sipper. Sweeter, gentle toffee notes and a slightly lower ABV make Stroma a constant at home for me.
£22.00 There are few more perfect things than a simple gin martini in my humble opinion, and this beautiful new gin with a unique take on juniper-led, old-school sensibility hits the spot. If a G and T is more your speed, remember to fill your glass with ice, use a great tonic, add a slice of orange and enjoy. 
Cross Brew
Moet Chandon Imperial Brut
Christmas Edinburgh Gin
Domaine Jean Perrier et Fils Pinot Noir
Glenmorangie Pioneer Gift Set
Venturini Baldini Montelocco Lambrusco
Old Pulteney Stroma
Seven Crofts Gin
