We’ve got you covered. Food, drink, nibbles, gifts, dogs, cats, even kids and birds; and something for all budgets. Food and drink ideas for Christmas across the board.

This guide pulls together a mix of food and drink treats for Christmas. You get gifts that land well, plus things you’ll want for your own table.

You’ll find standout bottles, clever kitchen kit, and small luxuries for your pets. There are rich chocolates, ready to pour cocktails, and bubbles that lift any gathering. What will you bring home this year, and what will you wrap for someone else?

Tables

Clawson Farms cheese collections, prices vary

If you’re looking for a great cheeseboard selection with all the biscuits and chutneys etc as part of the package, head to Clawsons. Each of their cheeses has its own unique story to tell, whether you’re looking for something light and fresh to serve alongside slices of ripe pear and honey, or a bold, expressive, decadent blue to pair with a fine red wine. The 1912 Stilton is something else.
Shop selections here

Tracklements Farmer’s Market Gift Pack, £14.05

Because Boxing Day is nothing without pickles. Love this carefully curated selection of Tracklements’ favourite condiments. For the best-tasting cheeses, cold cuts, hand raised pork pies, and hunks of warm bread for the finest picky plate in town. Contains Green Tomato Chutney 200g, Particularly British Piccalilli 170g, Tomato & Chilli Chutney 190g
Get it here

Umai Modern and Heritage caviar, 50g £75

There are few things that feel quite as luxurious as caviar. And Christmas is definitely the time for indulging in a spot of luxury. Umai caviar simply offers two distinct flavour profiles; Umai Modern and Umai Heritage. Umai Modern has a great savoury nuttiness with a clean umami finish on the palate and a lovely firm texture. Umai Heritage offers a more classical and full flavoured profile; ocean breeze and a delicate soft texture – one for the Oscietra lovers.
Get it here

Unearthed Brie & Pavé, £4 and Spanish Pickles, £5

Creamy Brie and Pavé au poivre, a rustic, pepper-coated dry-cured pork sausage, is a fabulous pairing – velvety richness and gentle peppery heat. Whack onto a warm baguette and quaff with a light Pinot Noir for party snacking. We also love these Spanish Style Pickles, inspired by the traditional Banderilla pintxo, a vivid mix of cornichons, red pepper, silverskin onions and Manzanilla olives which gives a tangy, crunchy, savoury flavour in every bite. Bring Spanish bar culture into your home. Thread onto skewers for instant pintxos, or if you’re heathens like us, scoff straight from the bucket.
Available Waitrose, Sainsbury’s etc.

Josephinenhütte No4 Champagne glasses, set of two glasses £140

Gorgeous bubbles deserve an elegant glass like the Josephine N° 4. Its balanced shape, with a large surface area and a shortened aroma chimney, allows even complex sparkling wines to shine while ensuring a long-lasting, fine mousse. Sweet wines like Auslese, Ice Wine, Tokaji, and Sauternes also benefit from the form of this unique glass. These are light, elegant, and feel special to drink from. A lovely pressie, it’s not all just food and drink ideas for Christmas, but the bits around it too.
Get them here

Tipples

Nyetimber Classic Cuvee Multi-Vintage, £42 for 75cl

We couldn’t have that caviar and those beautiful glasses without some fizz to go along. We’ve picked this one because it came top for English bubbles in our wine tasting feature over the summer. A classic blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier and a perfect balance of elegance and intensity. The blend includes wines from all the Nyetimber vineyards (West Sussex and Hampshire) and also from several vintages. Comes in a nice box too.
Get it here

Tácnbora Sauternes cask finish whisky, 58.2%, £57

A great Christmas gift idea for both men and women who love whisky. Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery’s limited edition in the Tácnbora cask finish series: the Tácnbora sits for nine months in ex-Sauternes oak, infusing the naturally sweet, cask-strength Tácnbora blend with luxurious layers of honeyed apricot, ripe stone fruits, toffee, and almond. Delish.
Get it here

Kennet Crayfish gin, prices vary starting £6.50

If gin is more your thing, this is something a bit different. The Kennet Crayfish Co gin is actually made using crayfish, although it doesn’t taste of shellfish, there’s something of the fresh seaside about it, and the crayfish gives it a bit of sweetness. Savoury notes of dill, a peppery hit from watercress, a burst of fresh zest from ripe lemon… we bet this would pair well with Clamato, but it’s lovely with tonic!
Get it here

Letterbox Christmas Cocktails Box, 3 x 275ml bottles, £41.95

Fabulous gift to send to a friend if you’re not going to be able to see them. Cocktails that will fit through the letterbox! You get Candy Cane Martini – Premium Brand Vodka, POLAR Peppermint Liqueur, Raspberry Syrup & Fresh Lemon Juice – 10% ABV, Gingerbread Whiskey Sour – Premium Brand Whiskey, Gingerbread Syrup, Bitters and Fresh Lemon Juice – 13% ABV, and Rum Rum Rudolph – Premium Brand Rum, Cherry Syrup, Bitters and Fresh Lime Juice – 12% ABV.  Plus festive gift wrap complete with tissue paper, ribbon, star confetti and a candy cane. There are also hand-made fruit garnishes and serving instructions.
Get it here

MOTH festive snacking selection box, £59

A full-strength festive cocktail celebration, delivered. MOTH has teamed up with Brindisa to create the ultimate cocktail hamper. A dreamy selection of MOTH cocktails, paired with moreish Perelló olives and snack mix, savoury Torres truffle crisps and rich Tony’s chocolate. A perfect way to say thank you. Congrats. Or Merry Christmas. Gift-boxed and ready.
Visit the Moth store

Chocolate

Lily O’Brien Shoe Box Hamper, £55

A stylish chocolate hamper filled with several of Lily O’Brien’s most popular assorted milk, dark and white chocolates collections. Expect mixed selections, caramel truffles, toffee pouches and honeycomb crispy hearts in the mix, as well as lots of other bits.
Get it here

Baileys Chocolate Caramel Whirls, RRP £2.75

One for those with an extremely sweet tooth and a love of Baileys! Milk chocolate whirls filled with the famous Irish cream liqueur flavour, soft mallow, and a caramel flavour sauce. Whirls with a hint of Baileys.
Available in Waitrose, Sainsbury’s etc.

Catherine’s Originals vegan chocolate selection tin, from £33

Still on the chocolates but this time it’s for the vegans. If you’re sad not to be able to dive into the Quality Street tin, this is for you! A chocolate selection tin (it’s even got an option to personalise by engraving the name of your loved one) packed with approximately 81 delectable vegan chocolate treats, featuring their original nine flavours and delivered in good time for Christmas.
Get them here

Kitchen bits

Hokan bowls, £90 for the set of three

Love these bowls – ideal for the enthusiastic Asian-inspired home cook. Hokan Bowls are stoneware bowls which have a multitude of uses. Robust and durable, they’re multi-purpose, going from freezer and fridge to oven or microwave, to landing on the table. They’re designed to stack to fit neatly in the fridge or cupboard. Even better, the lids are one-size-fits-all. You can also order spare lids. Small bowls start at £25.
Get them here

Hexclad Hybrid wok with lid, from £129

This viral fave now also has a small version for home cooks, singles, lighter eaters… Perfect for stir-fries, pasta dishes, soups, deep frying, and much more. The best thing about Hexclad is the non-stickery. Perfect sear, perfect for frying eggs, perfect for tossing stir-fries. The famous TerraBond ceramic non-stick coating means it’s perfect for hob to oven cooking too. Believe the hype.
Get Hexclad here

Swan Retro 8L Dual Basket Air Fryer, £129.99

Look at this fabulous retro colour, and the versatility of this ‘double garage’ air fryer. Loads of pre-settings take the hassle out of working out cooking times – one touch cookery at its easiest. And having two trays means you can cook an entire meal all at the same time. Dishwasher safe baskets and clear LED displays. A cracking gift for a young adult striking out and leaving home, we thought.
Get it here

Our little friends…

Pooch & Mutt Christmas treats, from £2.49

We love this brand, and so does the boss’s pug, Alice Pickle the Duchess of Pickleton. You will be pleased to know that Alice has tested a few things out for this feature and has given the seal of approval. There’s lots to choose from and we love the brand for its vet-recommended range, with high quality natural ingredients free from grains and junk. Lots of tail wagging and good for them too. Also stuff for kitties.
Get it here

Ruffingtons Artisan Baked Dog Treats, from £5

Quite possibly in the ‘more money than sense’ bracket, we absolutely adore these treats for dogs. Ruffingtons has created an exquisite new range of luxurious patisserie-style treats, just for doggies. Hand-decorated, edible works of art, free from artificial additives, all beautifully packaged and sealed with love, ready for gifting.
Daft? Yes. Did we get a load and squeal excitedly about them? Also yes.
Get yours here

A Little Bird Co, Little Birder Set, £24.95

The Little Birder Set is the perfect kids bird feeder kit, designed for children to start learning to recognise birds at the feeder, and spot plants and wildlife beyond the garden. In this set, you’ll find a lightweight feeder made for smaller hands, a no-grow seed blend chosen to attract robins, blue tits and sparrows, and a copy of Little Moments Outdoors, a nature spotting book for kids filled with fun facts and things to look out for on walks and in the garden. This is a lovely pressie for kids and grandkids – and a tasty meal for the birds!
Get it here

Webbox Lick-e-Lix cat treats mega pack, £15

Loved by cats everywhere, and who can blame them when they come in such a delicious array of flavours? Thanks to the handy packaging, your cat can lap up Lick-e-Lix straight from the packet and they go nuts for the smooth creamy texture. This mega pack contains no artificial colours or preservatives, with grain free recipes and no added sugar. This kitten friendly pack comes in an assortment of three flavours per pack: 20 x Chicken Flavour, 15 x Salmon Flavour and 15 x Liver Sausage & Cat Grass Flavour.
Get it here

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In fact, it could be spilling secrets about your personality before you’ve even taken your first sip. Whether you’re a fan of something timeless and refined, a lover of bold flavours, or partial to a tropical escape in a glass, there’s a story behind every order. So, what does your favourite cocktail say about you?

With the warmer months just around the corner, it’s almost time to fire up the barbeque, dust off the sunglasses, and start plotting those garden parties, rooftop drinks, and cheeky beach getaways. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in the back garden, kicking back on holiday, or clinking glasses at a London social club high above the skyline, one thing’s for sure: summer calls for a cocktail.

Let’s take a look, and since we’re all about balance, you’ll find each recipe below, with a little twist to make it your own.

Martini – The Classicist

You’re all about elegance, intention, and knowing what works. A martini person doesn’t dabble, they decide. Your wardrobe is probably a mix of clean silhouettes and timeless staples, your calendar is organised, and your phone is always charged. People look to you when they need a voice of reason or a restaurant recommendation that never misses.

You’re calm in a crisis, sharp in a meeting, and likely the person who leaves a party early and still manages to feel mysterious.

You’ll need:

• 60ml gin
• 10ml dry vermouth (or less if you like it super dry)
• Lemon twist or olive (depends how Bond you’re feeling)

How to make it:
Stir gin and vermouth over ice until chilled to perfection. Strain into a martini glass, garnish, and serve with a raised eyebrow.

For a twist:
Swap gin for vodka to keep it clean but a little more contemporary.

Read more: Five of our favourite salad dressing recipes

Margarita – The Life of the Party

You’re a walking good time. Bold, bubbly, and full of zest, you’re the kind of person people turn to when they want to really let loose. You bring energy to every room you enter, and have a rare gift for making strangers feel like friends.

Spontaneous is your default setting. Your camera roll is full of blurry photos, your suitcase is always half-packed, and your stories start with “you had to be there.”

You’ll need:

• 50ml tequila
• 25ml Cointreau
• 20ml fresh lime juice
• Salt rim and lime wedge

How to make it:
Rub the glass with lime, dip in salt, shake the rest with ice, and pour. Brace yourself for compliments (and possibly karaoke).

For a twist:
Add a splash of fresh orange juice or a chilli salt rim for a little bite.

Old Fashioned – The Steady Hand

Reliable. Grounded. Comforting in a world that’s moving too fast. You’re the friend who shows up on time, never flakes, and remembers everyone’s coffee order. You believe in doing things properly, whether it’s polishing your shoes or mixing your drinks.

Classic doesn’t mean boring. You’ve just got depth and quiet confidence. You value tradition, but you’re not stuck in the past. In fact, you’re probably the one keeping everyone else balanced.

You’ll need:

• 50ml bourbon or rye
• 1 sugar cube
• A few dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange peel

How to make it:
Muddle sugar and bitters, add the bourbon, a big ice cube, and stir with purpose. Garnish with orange peel and take your time.

For a twist:
Add a few drops of chocolate bitters for a richer, deeper sip.

Negroni – The Curious One

You’re an old soul with modern tastes. A thinker, a talker, a little mysterious, Negroni lovers are often the ones asking big questions over candlelit tables. You enjoy the finer things (but never showy), and you gravitate towards rich, layered experiences.

People might call you intense, but you just care deeply about ideas, places and people. You’re hard to pigeonhole, and you like it that way.

You’ll need:

• 25ml gin
• 25ml Campari
• 25ml sweet vermouth
• Orange slice

How to make it:
Pour over ice in a rocks glass, stir gently, and garnish with an orange slice. Drink like you’ve seen things.

For a twist:
Swap gin for prosecco to create a lighter, spritzier Negroni Sbagliato.

Mojito – The Free Spirit

You’re the spontaneous road-tripper, the barefoot dancer, the “let’s just see where the night takes us” type. People love being around you because you bring lightness into the room and you never take things too seriously.

Your energy is magnetic, and you have that rare ability to roll with the punches. You probably own more than one plant, and your passport gets a decent amount of use.

You’ll need:

• 50ml white rum
• 25ml lime juice
• 2 tsp sugar
• Fresh mint
• Soda water

How to make it:
Muddle mint, lime, and sugar in a glass. Fill with ice, pour in rum, top with soda, stir, and enjoy under a string of fairy lights.

For a twist:
Throw in a few raspberries or passionfruit pulp for a fruity remix.

Espresso Martini – The Night Owl

You thrive when the sun goes down. Always juggling ten ideas, five group chats, and at least one side hustle. Espresso Martini fans are effortlessly cool with just a dash of chaos, and we mean that affectionately.

You’re driven, charming, and probably a bit of a flirt. Sleep? That is future you’s problem.

You’ll need:

• 40ml vodka
• 20ml coffee liqueur
• 20ml fresh espresso
• Coffee beans to garnish

 How to make it:
Shake everything with ice until it’s frothy and cold. Strain into a chilled martini glass and finish with three beans (for luck, obviously).

For a twist:
Add a splash of Baileys or salted caramel syrup for a creamy, indulgent kick.

Bloody Mary – The Brunch Enthusiast

You’re thoughtful, funny, and know how to nurse both hangovers and friendships. Bloody Mary drinkers are the type who host low-key brunches with jazz in the background and know how to put people at ease.

You’re a little spicy, a little salty, and full of substance.

You’ll need:

• 50ml vodka
• 100ml tomato juice
• 10ml lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt & pepper (to taste)
• Dash of sherry
• Celery stick and lemon wedge

How to make it:
Build everything over ice, stir like you’re casting a healing spell, garnish, and get comfy.

For a twist:
Add a splash of pickle juice or a wasabi rim for something extra savoury.

Cosmopolitan – The Showstopper

You’ve got flair. You love a polished entrance, a sharp comeback, and you definitely know your angles. A Cosmo fan is confident, expressive, and always in the know.

People look to you for the group selfie, the party playlist, and the best gossip. And honestly? You deliver.

You’ll need:

• 40ml vodka
• 15ml triple sec
• 15ml cranberry juice
• 10ml lime juice
• Lime twist

How to make it:
Shake everything with ice, strain into a martini glass, and serve with a knowing smile.

For a twist:
Use blood orange liqueur instead of triple sec for a darker, sexier version.

Piña Colada – The Daydreamer

You’re the one with your head in the clouds and sand in your soul. Relaxed, kind-hearted, and a little nostalgic, you make every setting feel like a holiday.

You don’t need much to be happy, just good company, warm weather, and something fruity in your glass.

You’ll need:

• 50ml white rum
• 25ml coconut cream
• 50ml pineapple juice
• Pineapple slice and cherry

How to make it:
Blend with crushed ice until it’s smooth and beachy. Garnish and pretend you’re somewhere tropical, even if you’re just in your garden.

For a twist:
Add a dash of dark rum on top for a more layered, grown-up flavour.

Whiskey Sour – The Thinker

You’re thoughtful, introspective, and always down for a deep chat, ideally over candlelight. You’ve got a good balance of light and dark, and your humour is dry, but your heart is warm.

People trust you with secrets and wine lists.

You’ll need:

• 50ml whisky
• 25ml lemon juice
• 15ml sugar syrup
• Optional: egg white
• Lemon or cherry to garnish

How to make it:
Shake everything (dry shake first if using egg white), then add ice and shake again. Strain and garnish with a flourish.

For a twist:
Add a few muddled blackberries or a splash of red wine on top for a New York sour spin.

One last sip…

Your favourite cocktail isn’t just a drink, it’s a little window into who you are, what you love, and how you show up in the world. Whether you’re a martini minimalist or a piña colada escapist, own it. And if you like to switch it up? That just means you’re full of surprises.

Here’s to knowing yourself, one sip at a time.

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The post Class in a glass: what does your cocktail say about you? appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Left your gift shopping a little late? Don’t panic—our last-minute party food and drink gift guide has you covered. From indulgent chocolates to cocktail must-haves and fine tipples, these picks are guaranteed to impress. Last minute Christmas shopping ideas coming right up.

Here’s a range of nibbles and quaffs we loved…

Broken Clock Vodka, £35.94

This is a lovely vodka with a clean hit on the palate, and a fruity nose – made in a traditional copper pot still in Cheshire, and then infused with slow ripened apples from the garden at Shandy Hall in Coxwold, Yorkshire, along with botanicals from old Georgian gardens. It’s one of the nicest vodkas we’ve tried here. We loved the taste so much we could barely bring ourselves to waft the Noilly Prat over it.
Shop Broken Clock Vodka

RoniB Filipino Flavours Collection gift box, £27.99

Absolutely loving the vibrant and bold tastes here. Banana Ketchup, a sweet and tangy twist on a classic condiment; Garlic Chilli Oil; the traditional Filipino Adobo Sauce; Kalamansi Marmalade (known as Philippine Lime Marmalade) and Black Bean Chilli Paste, for coating on meat and fish.
Shop the Collection Box

ST~GERMAIN

St‑Germain is a French liqueur made with fresh elderflowers, hand-picked once a year in the late spring. It’s named after the Parisian cultural district made famous by the writers and artists who lived there during the Belle Époque. It’s glamour in a bottle.
Get this on Amazon £29.96

Read more: last minute beauty and skincare shopping guide

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple whiskey set with two glasses

The old fave, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, coupled with crisp green apple for a fresh and rewarding taste. It sounds mad, but it works. Refreshing, and it kind of lightens the punch. An interesting ingredient for cocktail-making. And we liked the glasses, branding and all.
Get this on Amazon, £33.95

Tea & Tonic Saving Grace Wellness Gift Set, £98

Something a bit different that we liked, that wasn’t about booze or sugar… The ultimate wellness and skincare gift, featuring Meadow’s Secret Cleansing Balm, Saving Grace Face Oil, organic hemp cleansing cloth, and Earl Grey Wellness Tea. A wonderful gift for creating ritual around.
Shop the Saving Grace Wellness set here

Candy Cane cherry vodka liqueur

This old-fashioned candy cane style bottle full of vodka liqueur has a rich, cherry flavour that’s perfect for sipping but absolutely brilliant for using in cocktails. Cherry Vodka Sour or Cherry Manhattan anyone? We also love the bottle.
Get this on Amazon, £23.99

Ruinart Rose Champagne and luxury chocolates hamper set

This is a wonderful gift for the champagne lover – and Ruinart is possibly our own favourite champagne here at Silver Towers. A mix of chocolates – the famous Guylain seashells and a Hamlet gold praline collection box. All packaged up in a proper wicker hamper with leather straps that you can use for picnics and days at the races!
Get this on Amazon, £143.49

Lily O’Brien chocs – salted caramel truffles, and gift-wrapped boxes

The salted caramel truffles are rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with a hint of salt. And you’ll struggle not to eat the lot in one go. The gift-wrapped boxes are stylish and make an easy, thoughtful present, with no need to wrap. Delicious chocolate, no fuss.
Shop the salted caramel truffles
Shop the gift-wrapped boxes

Opies condiments

No self-respecting cocktail tray would be without the Opies range. We are loving (what we think are) the new cherries in Kirsch, although it’s hard to beat the good old Maraschino. There’s also sliced lemons, pickled walnuts, crystallised ginger, Silverskin onions, capers, gherkins, pink peppercorns… the list is endless.

Shop the Opies range

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The post Last minute Christmas shopping ideas – food and drink appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Fear not, we have done the research on the best bargains and luxury drinks for stocking your cellar up. From champagnes and wines to brandies and the best vodkas, we’ve got them all here. There are also some amazing deals on luscious low and no alcohol options. What are you waiting for? It’s time to treat yourself to a sparkling night in. After all, hoppy hour is the best hour.

Gorgeous gins

Gin is a clear spirit, flavoured with juniper berries and botanical ingredients. This premium spirit offers a refreshing and smooth experience with every sip. Served best with tonic or lemonade or shaken into a creative cocktail – I’m certain one will catch your eye. Elevate your senses and indulge in these delicious gins. A little bit of gin-spiration goes a long way.

Chase Distillery Pink Grapefruit and Pomelo Gin – 40% 70cl

Roku Suntory Japanese Craft Gin Cherry Blossom, Yuzu and Sansho Pepper 43% 70 cl

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, 70cl 46%

Warming whiskies

There’s no whisky-business involved when buying these drinks, we highly recommend you try them. Whether served neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation of a timeless cocktail, these whiskies promise an unparalleled experience for those who indulge. Cheers to golden hour. Add a little something to your cocktail evenings with custom coasters too. Your friends will each have a personal keepsake

Think you know your drinks? Take our fun quiz

Aberlour A’Bunadh Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 70 cl

Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 43% vol  70cl

Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 70 cl

Vibrant vodkas

For many, vodka embodies the essence of refinement. Commonly known as liquid confidence, what’s stopping you from treating yourself? These selected spirits have a crisp, clean finish, making them ideal as the foundation of your favourite cocktails. Or take a shot before heading out to your favourite bar, who are we to judge?

Ciroc Premium Vodka, 40% Vol, 70cl

Crystal Head Vodka 70cl, 40% ABV – Award-Winning Premium Distilled Vodka

Grey Goose Le Citron, Premium Lemon Flavoured French Vodka

Tangy tequilas

One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor. Get ready to party. Each sip transports you to sunny beaches and festive celebrations, capturing the essence of Mexico’s vibrant spirit. Impress your gathering guests and ignite your senses with the unmistakable quality of these discounted tequilas.

Patron Reposado Premium Tequila

Don Julio Anejo Tequila, 38% vol, 70cl

Herradura Anejo Tequila, 70 cl

Breathtaking brandys

Age is just a number, but a good brandy is timeless. Life is too short to settle for anything less than the finer things, and brandy embodies sophistication in every sip. Delicate notes of spices and vanilla dance on the palate, delivering a warm, velvety finish. Whether enjoyed neat by the fireside or as the centrepiece of a classic cocktail. Get ready to make a toast this Prime Day.

Volare Apricot Brandy Liqueur, 70 cl

Torres 30 Jaime I Brandy, 70 cl

Baron De Sigognac 10 Ans Bas Armagnac Brandy 70 cl

Ravishing rums

Cupboards rumming a little empty? Time to restock on this gorgeous selection of rums. Every sip of these smooth, spiced drinks guarantees to transport you to tropical beaches and sunny breezes. With a rich amber hue and a complex flavour profile of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, rum offers delight to the senses. Time to get ship-faced!

Kraken Black Cherry and Madagascan Vanilla Black Spiced Rum 70cl

Salcombe Rum ‘Island Street’ 40%

Kadoo Club 8 Year Caribbean Rum, 40% 70 cl

Charming champagnes

You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy good Champagne. It’s time to treat yourself, put your feet up, and pour yourself a glass of bubbles. Whether toasting achievements, celebrating milestones, or simply indulging in a moment of luxury, Champagne elevates every occasion with a symphony of crisp notes. Make ordinary moments feel extraordinary, life is better with bubbles.

Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Non-Vintage Champagne, 75 cl

Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut Champagne

Taittinger Brut Réserve Non-Vintage Champagne 75cl

Wonderful white wines

White wine provides the ultimate grape escape for all who indulge. Fresh, classic, and fruity, these wines are crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Filled with delicate aromas and crisp acidity, enjoy on a sunny balcony or as the perfect accompaniment to a gourmet meal.

Canti – Italian White Dry Wine 12%, 6×750 ml

Telmo Rodriguez ”Basa”, Rueda, Spain, white wine – 75cl

Radiant rose wines

Want to feel on cloud wine? Fresh from sunny vineyards, rose wine is always a crucial ingredient for having a good time. Rose embodies relaxation and luxury, two things you deserve. Embrace the beauty of a sunny afternoon and treat your family and friends to these sweet and delicate rose wines.

Bottega Rose Gold Pinot Nero Brut Rose Sparkling Wine Magnum – 150cl

Beronia Rioja Rose – Spanish Rose Wine, 75cl Bottle

Remarkable red wines

You had me at merlot. Rich in colour, flavour and history, these red wines are crafted for those who appreciate the depth and complexity of fine wines. Each sip elegantly lingers on the pallet, give the glass a swirl and indulge. These wines can be paired with a hearty meal or enjoyed by a dancing fire. Just try not to spill any…

Batasiolo, BAROLO DOCG, 75cl, Still Red Dry Wine Barolo

Bottega Venedika Rosso Venezia DOC Italian Red Wine – 75cl

Bubbly beer

Ale you need is love. And these beers will certainly provide that hoppy feeling. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast, or just starting your journey into the world of craft beer, these pints are all brewed with the absolute best ingredients. Bursting with flavour, these refreshing lagers will quench your thirst. Often hailed as the world’s oldest and most beloved alcoholic beverage, give these beers a try.

Camden Town Brewery Hells, 12 x 330 ml

Modelo Especial Mexican Lager Beer, 24 x 355 ml

Peroni Nastro Azzurro Stile Capri Lager, ABV 4.2%, 24 x 330ml

Amazingly alcohol-free

Fancying a night out whilst attempting to avoid pour decisions? Try these 0% spirits. Crafted for those who want a sophisticated drinking experience without intoxication. Carefully created to work in a variety of different alcohol-free cocktails, why not try them.

Seedlip Spice 94, Non-Alcoholic Spirit with Distilled Aromatic Botanicals, 0% vol, 70cl

Three Spirit Non-Alcoholic Alternative Spirit- The Livener, 50cl

Abstinence Blood Orange Non Alcoholic Aperitif distilled in South Africa, 75cl

Isabella Poderico

Overly enthusiastic and obsessed with everything a little nerdy, Isabella has written about everything from movie premieres to politics. She can often be found, as many writers often are, sitting in front of her laptop typing away obsessively in an extortionately priced independent coffee shop.

The post Get ready to refill your luxury party drinks cabinet appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Not everyone is locked down, but more of us are spending time at home. And hey, the rule of six is a teeny bit restrictive. So here’s some things to do at home, online, with friends, or on your tod.

1. Pizza in a box to your door

No, we don’t mean delivery pizza. We mean the fun of making a pizza, with all the basic, traditional ingredients delivered in a box. The boxes come with balls of dough to make the base, plus tomato sauce, fresh basil, mozzarella, parmesan etc.

The best bit here is that you get great pizza ingredients. And then get to add your own toppings without breaking the bank. Call us old-fashioned but we don’t think adding olives and extra cheese to a pizza should cost the best part of a tenner on top. Fun to do as a group, fun with famalam. And stand away from that pineapple.

Comes in two sizes –
The Due – for two at £17.50
The Famiglia – for four @ £27.50
www.dough-re-me.co.uk

2. Cocktail making and exclusive masterclass online

There’s quite a few box kits out there with the ingredients for specific cocktails, with a recipe card included. But this one is a bit different, and we love it. Watch the video.

We like this because it comes with an online masterclass. Learn how to make it like a pro, with a proper class from a highly experienced cocktail master! Great fun to do as a group online. Love that they offer non-alcoholic options too, as it’s Stoptober.

You pay for the class, which is £100 for 45 minutes, but obviously you can split the cost with chums.

Use your own ingredients, or they have box kits starting from £30
www.mixologygroup.co.uk

3. Make your own Indian feast – spice kits and recipe box

Everything you need to make an authentic Indian feast at home. The kit includes a recipe booklet to start you off, and six exclusive spice blends, created specifically by Mandira. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Gluten, nut and preservative free.

The kit contains onion bhaji masala, chicken or meat masala, Bombay potato masala, chilli masala, chai masala and garam masala. Cook up a Ruby in your bubble.

Spice kits £21
www.mandiraskitchen.com

4. Messy Halloween baking, with little kids (or big kids)!

This is a really fun activity bundle for Halloween, complete with a spooky mummy biscuit baking kit, monster slime popcorn kit, and monster biscuit bag craft activity. Each box fits though your letterbox and comes with everything you need to make monster slime and spooky biscuits, as well as a kit for decorating.

Fun with friends, but probably more fun with little fingers. Something to muck about with the children or grandchildren.

Halloween Activity Bundle £19.99
www.craftandcrumb.com

5. Whisky Festival in a Box, with tasting boxes

This is a fairly large scale event and one for those who love a drop of malt or peat or whatever. It’s a three day festival with tastings classes online, but also quizzes and other stuff. Everything will be available online and for free all weekend. But if you want to join in the tastings, you buy a box for £35 for one of the sessions.

The boxes include six whiskies, a tasting glass, can of Larkfire Wild Water for Whisky, a pin badge, and a pipette. Themed tasting sessions include Scotch whiskies, Asian whiskies, world whiskies etc. A whisky lover’s dream. If you miss it live you can watch it afterwards.

Whisky Festival in a Box, 16 – 18 October 2020
www.thewhiskylounge.com

6. Luxey grooming kit for men – because good hands are important

It’s not just women who like to look and feel good. Treat your hands to a bit of love – especially as you’re washing them so much more.

This kit includes things like hand scrub and cream; grooming items such as clippers, scissors, tweezers etc; and a nifty little pouch. Maybe not exactly a party in a box, but a box to prepare you for a party!

Available from Boots – the Champneys Men Deluxe Grooming Kit £14
www.boots.com/champneys

7. Cove Vodka cocktails in a box – Cosmos or Royales?

Nice and straightforward, this is cocktail combos in a box. We loved the look of a few of these cocktail boxes and kits. But came down in favour of the Cosmo, or maybe the Royale. We like it classic and classy, what can we say? Also how cute are those little bottles of Cointreau?!

We say try a few of these kits with friends, either online or together in the flesh. Not exactly challenging, but fun, and quality ingredients.

Cove Cocktails Cosmopolitan Kit – contains enough for four cocktails £30
www.devoncove.co.uk

8. ESPA – the full body pampering experience in a kit

Literally launching today (2 October), this is the ultimate in spa at home luxury. Those that know, know that ESPA is guaranteed to make you feel magical. And this collection includes an embarrassment of riches. Spa night at home with girlfriends? Absolutely perfect for this. Crack open the champagne and revel in the goodies, which include body polish, serum, hair mask, Gua Sha tool for massage, plenty of creams… grownup sleepover anyone?

Create a sanctuary at home from top to toe – The Complete Retreat Collection £180
www.espaskincare.com

9. And relax, with this gentle box of relaxing goodies

If you’re looking for something a bit more holistic and relaxing, this is the one for you. Particularly if you fancy a bit of me-time. The box contents have been selected to give you seven ways to reduce stress, relax the mind and soothe a tired body.

The box contains a wellbeing rollerball, heated eye mask, rose quartz crystal, singing bowls download and mint tea. Something to take along to your small yoga group perhaps, or just indulge yourself with at home. Ommm.

RRP £25 available from
www.sensoryretreats.com

10. Make your own gin with botanicals

Missing your favourite gin bar? Did you know it’s pretty easy to make your own gin blend at home, champions? This box comes with a recipe booklet and a bunch of fragrant botanical ingredients in little tins. Which you can use for garnishing your already-made gin, or make your own. Everything you need is included.

Gin Botanicals Tin with 7 Botanicals, £24.99
www.spicekitchenuk.com

11 Time of Your Life beauty boxes

TOYL is a beauty subscription box created specifically for mature skin. Packed with beauty products, specifically chosen for our age group and themed to meet your beauty needs throughout the year, TOYL is unique. The luxey, high quality contents are always worth over £100, and each month you receive products relevant to the time of year. From a shake-up of skincare in the Autumn, to travel products in May, glamour in December and home spa for January.

Monthly box subscription only £35, cancel any time
www.toyl.co.uk

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The first definition of a cocktail was described in 1806, on 13th May. A New York publication, The Balance and Columbian Repository, defined a cocktail as “a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water and bitters…” And now we celebrate cocktails – if not every day, then at least once a year. Because it’s World Cocktail Day! And yes that’s a thing, but you can make this excellent cocktail any day of the year.

We’re here for this, and definitely here for making our own cocktails at home. So we asked our cocktail expert friends at the Mixology Group for a classic recipe with a modern update. And they’ve come up trumps. You’re welcome.

Ginger Whiskey Sour

50ml bourbon whiskey
20ml ginger syrup
20ml simple sugar syrup
30ml lemon juice

DIRECTIONS

This one couldn’t be easier. Shake all ingredients with ice and double strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.

We use the delicious House of Broughton syrup range from Fentimans, but you can make your own syrups. Create your own ginger syrup using 1:1 sugar and water boiled up with a chunk of fresh ginger for 15 mins. Sugar syrup you know how to make. You ought to.

Shake it all together and pour over ice. Garnish with orange, or sliced orange peel, or go crazy and use some candied ginger. Sip and ahhhhhhhh…

* * * * * * * * *

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Consistently seen as a quality, high end tipple, whiskies are starting to remarket and even repackage (Glenfiddich we’re looking at you) to attract a younger market. Whilst cocktail pods that dissolve in your mouth might be fun, surely the secret of the drink’s enduring appeal is about its quality and class? The experience of drinking it slowly, and savouring it? We wanted to find out.

As the nights get darker, longer and colder, there is nothing more enticing than a warm, amber drink by the fireside. We spoke to Myles Cunliffe from The Mixology Group to find out more about one of the longest-standing favourites in the world of spirits, and where it’s going.

TELL US ABOUT WHISKY AND HOW IT’S MADE

Put really simply, whisky is made from beer. Beer is made from a grain which is processed into a rough flour, and mixed with hot water. The hot water dissolves the starches and sugars in the grain, making a sugary liquid.

This is fermented into an alcoholic liquid via the addition of yeast. It can then be distilled in various types of stills; from copper pot stills for single malt whisky through to continuous stills for bourbon. The still concentrates the alcohol and adds to the flavour.

A minimum of two years in the barrel is used for a straight whisky from the States, whereas Scotch requires a minimum three-year sitting in the barrel

Then the alcoholic liquid is aged in a variety of barrels which may have previously held bourbon, sherry or even port and dessert wine, lending the drinks yet deeper and more complex flavours.

The time it spends in the barrel varies from country to country, but it can be anywhere between a matter of weeks or years. A minimum of two years in the barrel is used for a straight whisky from the States, whereas Scotch requires a minimum three-year sitting in the barrel.

One thing to remember when looking at a Scotch whisky bottle is to look at the label. The label always features a declaration of the malt or grain whiskies used. A single malt is one that is wholly produced from malt in one distillery.

When it comes to blended whiskies, and if it has an age statement, that refers to the youngest whisky in the bottle.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ‘WHISKY’ AND ‘WHISKEY’?

Strictly speaking, the difference between the two is where they’re from. Scotch is always spelt ‘whisky,’ and bourbon and Irish is ‘whiskey’, although you’ll find people who might disagree. It’s because of the similarities between Gaelic – both Irish and Scottish – with regards to pronunciation.

WHAT MAKES WHISKY SO PRESTIGIOUS?

The days of 15- and 20-year-old whiskies ruling the shelves of a bar are over

Generally, it’s due to the time it takes to produce. It’s also to do with the continual barrage from marketers that the older the whisky the better it is, making it harder for producers to sell younger whiskies.

However, the days of 15- and 20-year-old whiskies ruling the shelves of a bar are over. The increase of new distilleries brings an increase in young whiskies being released as limited editions, and new markets opening up.

HOW SHOULD WE BE DRINKING IT?

This varies from person to person; it’s about finding what works best for you. A little water, perhaps a crystal-clear ice cube, or even a splash of your favourite mixer all work just fine, as long as you enjoy it.

A big trend at the moment is serving whisky in the ‘High Ball Serve’. Essentially, whisky served long over ice with soda water. A very refreshing change from highly sugared gin and tonics. I also love a Ginger Whiskey Sour, a really tasty twist on an absolute classic.

MYLES’ FAVOURITES

If you’re a whisky drinker, you’ll already have your own favourite way of drinking it. Traditionally it’s generally been served neat or with a drop of water, and in the UK, without ice. But times change, and so do our habits. Here’s a few new ways to enjoy the amber fire…

NAME: Islay Malt Old Fashioned

TASTING NOTES: Smokey, bittered with the addition of Angostura bitters or the Aromatic Bitters from Mrs Better’s Bitters, with a hint of sweetness by adding the sugar of your choice. It could be honey, agave or even golden sugar.
BEST TO HAVE WITH: Great after dinner but exceptional with a great steak.
NEVER DO THIS: A common garnish are those horrid cocktail cherries. Ditch those in favour of some orange zest squeezed over the top.

NAME: Speyside High Ball with Fentimans Soda Water

TASTING NOTES: Tall and refreshing. Depending on your choice of whisky, it can be rich and complex or light and floral.
BEST TO HAVE WITH: Bar snacks. Have fun making your own, from candied nuts and bacon bits to hand fried crisps with white truffle mayonnaise. Be as decadent as you like.
NEVER DO THIS: Always use fresh bottles of soda water. Avoid the temptation of using the bottle of soda in the back of the fridge from last week. Instead, looking for smaller bottles, and don’t forget to store it in the fridge.

NAME: Bourbon Manhattan

TASTING NOTES: I make mine with the full-bodied red vermouth from Bolney Wine Estate, but look for a rich red vermouth to make this with to give the drink proper depth.
BEST TO HAVE WITH: Cheese!
NEVER DO THIS: Don’t use old vermouth. Treat your vermouth like wine – keep in the fridge once opened and safely consume within four weeks.

Myles Cunliffe is a specialist mixologist and viticulture expert who has worked globally, opening venues for clients all over the world, creating cocktail menus and training teams. A qualified WSET trainer, his work in the industry and training field has seen him awarded an Imbibe Educator of the Year gong. Thanks to him and The Mixology Group for their help with this feature.

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