The Best Whisky to Gift this Christmas

For those of us who love whisky Christmas is a time to enjoy it all the more, whether that be for oneself, to share with others, or even to buy as gifts. I believe there are whiskies which are special at most price points, so I will be giving you great suggestions you can find in a supermarket, but also a range of bottles you most definitely can’t. It is Christmas after all, and the festive holidays should be for everyone. From sweet ex-bourbon casks, sherry casks, port casks and smoky whisky, these are my Christmas crackers for 2022. Starting with the two best-selling single malt whiskies in the world. So without further ado, let’s get to it…

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old

At any one point in time, it is never certain whether this whisky or the next is the best-selling single malt in the world. They are so well matched, that they both take the lead over the other from time to time. Although they are equally very good, I do have a favourite, and this is it. With great balance and lots of fruity Speyside orchard fruits, this whisky will often be on special offer over Christmas and is a great gift. Although I’m not sure if it’d make it into wrapping paper in my house.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: UK £38 // US $44.99

Glenlivet 12 Year Old

I recently re-visited this distillery and in the tasting after the tour was presented with the 12-year-old as the first whisky. We then had two others from the range, and in my mind, although it was certainly not the most expensive, it was the best. It is so well balanced with apples and pears, with a little honey and vanilla, it’s hard not to see why it holds such regard in many people’s minds. And already on sale until January 2023 at Waitrose

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: UK £28 // US $47.99

Thompson Brothers 8 Year Old Blended Malt SRV5

The Thompson brothers, Phil and Simon have gained legendary status as independent bottlers, and the way they have managed that is by bottling great whisky at great prices. And this is no exception. With complex aromas and flavours of melon, limes, grapefruits and bananas with touches of candlewax and a tiny bit of smoke, this is a great blended malt whisky.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48.5%
Find it here: £34.95

Glenmorangie Nectar d’Or 

This is a real sweetie for the festive season. Finished in Sauternes wine casks, it has honey sweetness and vanilla to the fore. The sweet French white wine casks giving a syrup sweetness and viscosity. Sipped by itself or drunk in a highball with grapefruit soda, or ginger ale, this is an easy going crowd pleaser.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 46%
Find it here: UK £58.94 // US $81.99

Glenfarclas 15 Year Old

A stalwart of sherry matured whiskies, the 15 Glenfarclas is my all-time favourite ex-sherry cask Scotch. With the classic Christmas cake flavours, there are also nutty walnut flavours with orange peel, dates, and raisins. With a little water, it becomes even juicier. A great whisky for cold winter weather being very complex and easy to drink at the same time.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find it here: £57.94

Glen Grant 18 Year Old

In 2016 Glen Grant relaunched their range and thankfully included this 18 year old. It is a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks but is so balanced there is not a predominance of flavour from either. With lots of caramel, vanilla and raisins there are complex waves of sweetness which meet the palate. If you don’t like big heavy sherried whiskies then this would definitely be one for you.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: UK £115 // US $139.99

Glenturret 15 Year Old 2022 Release

This is the regular annual release from Glenturret of their 15 year old and like previous releases they have kept the abv on the higher side which gives a big punch of flavour. They’ve used a mix of casks which add to the complexity with both sweet and spicy notes, mixed with pepper, pine resin and lots of dried fruit. A big whisky for a big celebration.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: £125

Fettercairn 18 Year Old

This is a very unusual whisky. Scotch must be matured in oak, but where that oak comes from can vary. Traditionally ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks are used, as well as Port, Madeira, and many other wine casks, but never before has a Scottish oak cask been used. Whyte and Mackay, the owners of Fettercarin have a comprehensive Scottish oak project which this 18-year-old has benefited from. The type of oak makes a great deal of difference, with Scottish oak having a peppery spicy note on the back palate and finish beyond all the fruit cake and soft spice. Each batch is pretty limited, so grab one while you can.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46.8%
Find it here: £174.50

Dalmore King Alexander III

One of the most complex yet easy drinking whiskies I know. This is matured in six different types of casks and then blended. It is a grand sipper, with lots of soft spice, winter berries and a zesty, oaky edge keeping the palate lively, this is a long-time favourite of mine. Decadence in a glass and definitely a special whisky.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: UK £129.90 // US $279.99

Bowmore 22 Aston Martin 2nd Release

I have to thank my fellow drinker Aidy for opening his bottle for his Christmas party last weekend, otherwise, I’m not sure this would have been on my radar, but it definitely is now! A big rich complex dram with lots of fruit cake and spice, nuts, toasted oak and a good dollop of sweet beach bonfire smoke. This is an absolutely brilliant whisky from Bowmore. Sold out in most places, buy it if you see it, or find it at auction. It’s not only a great present, tastes great, but I think it will increase quite a bit in price, so maybe one to hang onto.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 51.5%
Find it at auction for around £500

Glenrothes 32 Year Old 1988 Cask 16546 Gordon and MacPhail

This whisky is simple in its conception. Fill an American oak hogshead, let it mature for thirty two years, and when ready, bottle it. Simple is not how I would describe the result though. There are subtle flavours of white meadow flowers and fennel which mix well with lots of complex honey and fresh vanilla pods. Fruit salad in syrup and a little fine oak and sandalwood make this a very special whisky for a special gift if you can bare to give it away!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 57.9%
Find it here: £720

Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute

I’ve been banging on about malt whisky, but now it’s time for a blend. The perception of blends is that they are cheaper and blander. This couldn’t be further from the truth. This whisky has great complexity with the whiskies contained within having been matured for over 40 years. Inlaid in 24 carat gold, this is the ultimate Christmas gift!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 57.9%
Find it here: £2799.90

With the above choices there should be something for everyone. From highball drinkers and aperitive sippers, to big rich fireside drams. For the new drinker and supermarket shopper to the new king, the one thing all of these have is quality, and the ability to give you pleasure. So, enjoy the festive season with whatever whisky you find and raise a glass to all people who enjoy a glass of the amber nectar.

If you enjoyed this then why not check out our gin, rum or red wine Christmas guides?

Words by Colin Hampden-White

9 Christmas Themed Gins You Need to Try

If you need some inspiration for the gin lover in your life or just a treat to yourself, these Christmas themed gin gifts are guaranteed to capture the spirit(s) of Christmas!

One Port Barrel Rested Gin

A truly distinguished limited edition gin, which has taken One Gin’s premium sage edition to another glorious golden level by resting it in port barrels. This could definitely be taken neat, with notes of rich warming spices, a hint of smokiness, sage and smooth sweet vanilla. It reminded us of sitting by the fire watching old black and white movies with a gorgeous Christmas drink. Delicious served neat over ice or with premium tonic and a wedge of clementine and lemon. 

Size: 500ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £34.76

Tarquin’s Christmas Crackers

Why crack open one Christmas cracker when you can have three?! The stunning, original Tarquin’s Cornish Dry Gin features in this gorgeous set of three generous 50ml miniatures, alongside their best selling Rhubarb and Raspberry, and British Blackberry Gins. The bottles are perfect replicas of the full size versions and are miniature works of art in themselves. Any gin fan would love these in their Christmas stocking, just don’t ask them to share! 

Size: 50ml each bottle
ABV: 42%, 38%,38%
Find here: £18

Hayman’s Sloe Gin

Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the perfect sloe gin and Hayman’s has managed to create an extraordinary one just for you with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The sloes are steeped for around 3 months in their original London Dry gin ensuring the perfect depth of flavours. There’s distinctive almond on the nose followed by beautifully rich fruits, cut with the sharpness of the sloes in complete harmony. Perfect for that Christmas dinner tipple, or any other time come to think of it! Serve neat with ice, with a premium tonic and a wheel of orange, or for that real Christmassy feel try it with hot cloudy apple juice, an orange wheel and a stick of cinnamon. Divine!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 26%
Find here: UK £22.99 // US $29.99

Angels Share Glass Pink Gin Bauble

A beautiful hand-blown glass bauble from Angels Share Glass filled with Premium Pink gin from the award-winning Stirling Distillery, this bauble would be the perfect addition to any gin lover’s Christmas tree. Originally makers of the stunning whisky filled glass angels, they have now branched out to include gin baubles in their collection and we love them! Even better, you can refill them with your favourite tipple for next Christmas! Presented in an easily wrapped gift box that even an amateur gift wrapper can handle!

Size: 50ml
ABV: 40%
Find Here: £17.95

Tappers Figgy Pudding Gin

The beautiful amber colour of this fabulously festive gin tempts you in and the flavours do not disappoint. We definitely all want this figgy pudding! With rich winter fruits, citrus and spices this is Christmas personified. Figgy Pudding gin is made using the age-old skill of cold compounding the fruits and botanicals in the gin base, allowing a deep rich flavour and natural colour. Serve it with lots of ice, premium clementine tonic, fresh fig and a cinnamon stick.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 39.6%
Find here: £32

Fuzzy Duck Gingerbread Gin

The name alone makes you want to pour yourself a gin! The smell of gingerbread fresh out of the oven, Christmas songs playing on the radio and everyone wanting the end of the loaf - you can’t beat it. Fuzzy Duck distillery doesn't use any syrup in their gins, it’s all natural goodness just like homemade gingerbread! They’ve definitely hit the nail on the head with this gorgeous tipple. Ginger and cinnamon spice are perfectly balanced with a gorgeous silky mouthfeel. This is a full bodied beauty that deserves to be cherished! Serve it neat over ice or with Mediterranean tonic, plenty of ice, cranberries and a slice of ginger.  

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £38

Warner’s Christmas Cake Gin

For all of the lovers of sumptuous, dark, fruity Christmas cake this gin will be right up your snow-covered, fairy-lit street! Distilled with hand picked sloe berries, spices, rich fruits and dark chocolate…yes we said dark chocolate, this is no ordinary Christmas gin this is a Warner’s Christmas Cake gin! From a 50ml stocking-filler miniature to a gorgeous gift set, including a stunning etched Warner’s copa glass, there is something here for everyone. Their recommended serve is plenty of ice, cola, and a slice of orange or why not try it in an Espresso Martini?!

Size: 5cl or 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: £5 to £45 (gift set inc glassware)

The Boatyard Distillery Winter Solstice Gin

A stunning Christmas inspired gin hailing from the beautiful banks of Lough Erne, County Fermanagh, North West Ireland. Without losing its juniper heart it’s been distilled with gorgeous Christmas pudding fruits of candied orange peel, raisins, ginger and spices. Expertly blended with a French Sauternes dessert wine giving such a silky sweetness to this perfect winter tipple. You won’t want to put it down until the last Christmas carol is sung!! Serve with premium tonic, plenty of ice and a slice of orange or why not try an Irish coffee with a twist; 50ml Boatyard Winter Solstice Gin, 75ml Filter Coffee, 10ml Muscovado Syrup (2 parts sugar 1 part water) and a Double Cream Top!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £30

Chew Valley Clementine and Cranberry Gin

Hailing from the multi award-winning Somerset distillery. In their own words “This is not a typical “Flavoured” gin. It is a true premium quality gin with hints of winter essence”. The botanicals in this fabulous gin, including fresh clementine peel, ginger and cranberries are vapour infused for the finest flavour extraction. There are no added sweeteners in this gin, which will definitely appeal to those who want something a little less sweet for their Christmas tipple but still want those warming winter flavours. Serve with lots of ice, premium tonic and a slice of orange peel or try it in some mulled apple juice with a stick of cinnamon .

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £34.95

Smugglers Spirits Gin Baubles

You will definitely want to be sneaking these gorgeously colourful gin baubles onto your tree! Full of festive cheer, they are generously filled with a fabulous array of gins from the award-winning Smugglers Spirits. Including their cracking navy strength Old Sins gin, beautifully warming seasonal Winter gin, the fantastic original Smugglers gin as well as their small batch, hand-crafted Orange, Raspberry and Strawberry gins. Just watch that nobody else spirits them away!

Size: 50ml per bauble (x6)
ABV: From 38% to 57%
Find here: £24.50

If you’re looking for more gin suggestions this Christmas, then make sure you have a read of The Best Gins to Gift This Christmas. We don’t stop there though, for gifting suggestions for rum, vodka, tequila, whisky and more click here!

Words by Leigh Andrews

The Best Rum to Gift this Christmas

The world of dark spirits is ever expanding, and no more so than in the world of rum. Rum, unlike many other dark spirits, seems to be a little harder to navigate. Scotch whisky has hard and fast rules that need to be adhered to, as does Cognac and even most world whiskey in some form or other. It means you know what to expect and there is a quality assurance that comes within its category. Not so with Rum, which, for me makes it exciting. The rules in one country can be quite strict, whilst in another, they may be non-existent. Aging can mean nothing, and colour can be added to make a rum look well aged, when in fact it’s only just been made, sugar can also be added without restriction, giving overly sweet rums. It’s no secret that people in the south Americas like rum to be sweeter than most Europeans.

Rather than dismiss rum as being too difficult, I think one should experiment, just as one would at the beginning of the journey to finding out which whisky one likes. I’ve done a fair bit of experimentation over the last few years, and if you are thinking of rum for Christmas or gifting rum, here are a few of my suggestions, giving their style so you can hopefully find that perfect bottle for the festive season. I’ll start with white rum, getting steadily darker, and include a few spiced rums at the end. There’s something here for everyone at every price point, so let’s get to it!

The Best White Rum to Gift for Christmas

Ron Santiago de Cuba Carta Blanca

In the last few years, we are seeing rums other than Havana Club coming out of Cuba, and this is a great example. It has initially been aged for a short time in oak, but then filtered to take out the colour, but leaving in all the flavour. I think this is one of the best value to flavour ratio rums for making cocktails out there. At a slightly lower abv, it doesn’t overpower with alcohol, but still delivers all the flavour you need.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find it here: £20.94

Bougainville White Rum

This rum comes from the Oxenham distillery on Mauritius. Made with molasses which have been fermented at a low temperature for 14 to 20 days, which is a very long fermentation, it gives lots of fruity banana character with toffee, milk chocolate and a touch of spice. At 40% it is smooth too, and although good enough to drink over ice, it is fantastic to mix with anything from Cola to the fanciest cocktail - this rum will shine through.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: £24.37

Toti White Rum

Created by The Sustainable Spirit Company in conjunction with the conservation group Sea Shepherd, 15% of the profits from every bottle go to supporting marine conservation in the Caribbean. Not only that, the rum tastes delicious too! It is a blend of rums from Trinidad, Barbados, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. There are flavours of apricot, chocolate and coconut with a touch of peppery heat.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find it here: £27.44

St Nicholas Overproof

Hailing from Barbados and produced by St Nicholas Abbey, this bottling has some punch to it being overproof at a robust 60% abv. This makes it a wonderful cocktail base, and although not the cheapest white rum in the world, it is worth every penny. The strength lets the rum come through with loads of flavour in a cocktail. With sweet honey, red fruit flavours and a nutty background with a little peppery heat, this is a great white rum.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 60%
Find it here: £74.95

The Best Rum to Gift for Christmas

Mount Gay Discovery Set

Here we have a great gifting set. Especially for those wanting to explore a wider range of rums. Mount Gay is a legendary distillery in Barbados. In the set are one each of Eclipse, Black Barrel Double Cask Blend and Mount Gay XO Triple Cask Blend. All quite different and all very tasty. My favourite is the Black Barrel which has been aged for seven years before being finished in heavily charred barrels giving toasted oak, ginger, oranges and a little baked tropical fruit.

Size: 600ml 3 x 200ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: £45

Bottle: Mount Gay Eclipse
Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $26.99

Bottle: Mount Gay Black Barrel
Size: 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: $29.99

Bottle: Mount Gay XO
Size: 750ml
ABV: 43%
Find it here: $66.99

Hattiers Resolute Navy

A Navy Strength bottling from English rum makers Hattiers, and it’s a brilliant blend of aged rums from Jamaica, Guyana, Barbados and Australia, it’s got lots of baked tropical fruit and buttery caramel and is a little smoky. A brilliant rum for making classic cocktails. I recently tried it in an Old Fashioned and have found a new friend. Warming and delicious, a fabulous rum.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 54.5%
Find it here: £50.94

Doorly 14 Year Old

Yesterday I was at a rum lunch and chatted to rum aficionado Peter Holland, who is now representing Foursquare distillery which also produces the Doorly range of rums. I asked him, which his favourite was, and low and behold, we both like the same one! The 14 Year old is a blend of pot still and column rum, mostly aged in ex bourbon casks. There are a few aged in Madeira giving a touch of sweetness amongst loads of spice including a good dollop of ginger spice, there is also dark chocolate and red berry fruit. A little soft spice on the finish and char, make this a great sipping and mixing rum. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48%
Find it here: £61.44

Abuelo XV Finish Collection 

The Abuelo fifteen year old comes in three forms, all finished in different casks. There is an Oloroso Sherry cask finish, a Napoleon Cognac finish and a Tawny Port cask finish. All delicious. Very difficult to choose a favourite, as they are all very good and the choice is subjective. I like the Tawny Port finish as it is a little drier, but that might not be yours, so why not try them all! A great gift for any rum lover.

Size: 600ml 3 x 200ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: £73

Bottle: Ron Abuelo XV Napoleon Cognac Cask
Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: $75

Hampden Estate Overproof Rum

I can’t write a rum list without including my namesake! And it’s not just because of the name. I last wrote about the eight year old Hampden, and this rum is just as incredible, especially if you like very fruity, slightly funky rum, which is typical of the Trelawny area in Jamaica. Lots of fruity esters, mix with a little vegetal bitterness, and at 60%, this is a very punchy rum. One to try if you’ve been drinking rum for a while and want to try something a little different.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 60%
Find it here: £80

Foursquare Elysium 12 Year Old

Dan Davies MW says if you like sherry aged whiskies or rich style of Cognac, you should try this rum. It is a rich blend of pot still and column-distilled rum and matured in both ex-bourbon and ex sherry casks for 12 years in the tropics. There are deep flavours of brown sugar, baked orchard fruits with lifted flavours on the finish of furniture polish, dried tobacco leaves and leather. Exclusive to The Whisky Exchange, they have chosen a cracker of a rum here.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 60%
Find it here: £86.95

Caroni 22 year old 1997 Master of Malt

Here we have a very special rum. From the closed Caroni distillery, these rums are becoming very rare and new bottlings don’t come around very often. Bottled by Master of Malt, this is a very good example. Distilled on a traditional column still in 1997, only 284 bottles were filled in 2020 and only recently released. If you’d like to try a very special rum or need a very special gift for a rum lover, then this will do the trick. With aromas of baked pineapple, confected other fruits and a dry oak the flavours are gentle at first, expanding into dark rich earthy notes and treacle and raisins. Baking spice and cloves come through with stewed fruit on the finish which is very long and complex.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 61.6%
Find it here: £249.95

The Best Spiced Rum to Gift for Christmas

Cassario Black Spiced Flavour with Rum

Here we have a rum that gives true value for money. Beating other much more expensive rums in competitions, like the Spirits Business awards in 2021 where it received a gold medal, this rum doesn’t compromise flavour for price. If you like Kraken or other dark spiced rums, then this should be a rum for you. With caramel and dark chocolate, allspice and manuka honey, it’s a complex and sweet rum punching well above its price tag. Well done, Aldi.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find it here: £14.99

Bumbu Original

This rum now comes in a slightly higher strength than when first released and it makes all the difference. Inspired by recipes from the 16th and 17th centuries used by West Indian sailors this spiced rum has plenty of tropical fruit and spice with quite a bit of sweetness but is very well balanced with the higher abv. Think Banoffee pie, caramel, and allspice with a little chocolate. Yum.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find it here: UK £34.99 // US $34.99

Decorrum

We now enter into the world of spiced rum. With its Art Deco design this rum has a complex flavour profile with lots of spice, including ginger and cinnamon, but there is also sweetness from honey and vanilla flavours. Oranges and rhubarb bring in plenty of fruit. It’s real treat for those who like spiced rum.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find it here: £40

If you’re still looking for that perfect gift, why not have a look at our vodka, gin or tequila gift guides too?

Words by Colin Hampden-White

The Best Gins to Gift this Christmas

The world’s obsession with gin is far from over, and as a result, there are a tonne of bottles competing to be the ultimate gin gift. Luckily, we’ve narrowed it down. We’ve travelled far and wide to pull together the very best options for each category and boy do we have some variety here! Some of the most beautifully designed bottles we’ve ever seen, expert crafting, and true innovation – there’s something for everyone and you will find your perfect gin gift here. That’s a promise.

The Best London Dry Gin to Gift

Tulchan Gin

As the eye-catching bag piper suggests, this is a Scottish gin and in particular, the prestigious Tulchan Estate in Speyside. On top of the fundamental and familiar London Dry botanicals of citrus, piney juniper and cardamon is a flavour profile inspired by the Speyside flora that’s local to the estate. Picked on site, heather, sloe berries, blackberry leaves and elderflower combine for a deliciously bright, light and floral gin. You might normally think Speyside in a glass would be whisky, but this gin definitely has something to say about that!

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 45%
Find here: UK £37.57 / US $42.99

58 & Co

This is a multi-award-winning gin in a gorgeous minimalist bottle with maximum quality inside. Crisp citrus and leafy notes feature on the nose, with a juniper forward palate supported by more gorgeous citrus and a pleasant peppery finish. It’s just a really well-crafted gin. Serve with Mediterranean tonic, loads of ice and any citrus you like.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £32.94

The Botanist

This stylish bottle has become a gin list staple, and we’d be surprised if you’ve never come across it! Created at the Bruichladdich distillery, it’s exclusively made on the island of Islay off the Scottish west coast. A staggering 31 botanicals are involved, 22 of which are native to the island! From familiar faces like coriander seed and lemon peel to water mint, red clovers, creeping thistle and the Harry Potter-esque mugwort leaves! Everything combines to create a silky smooth, earthy yet sweet expression with subtle herbals never far away. Islay isn’t just whisky you know! Get the most out of all those botanicals in a classic G&T!

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: UK £32.99 // US $41.99

The Best Pink Gin to Gift

Mirabeau

We’ve loved the Mirabeau Rosé for a long time with its top-notch quality and value and inspired by the botanical bounty around their Saint Tropez estate, they turned to juniper too! The glorious base notes of juniper, citrus, orris and angelica root and coriander support this herbaceous twist, with bay, thyme and rosemary providing real character. The Rosé in the base as well as being made with grapes itself makes this gin stand out even more, creating a deliciously light expression, perfectly balanced between fruits and herbs. If you like Rosé or know someone that does, then this is the perfect gateway gin.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £40.24

Great Glen - Pink Gin

This beautifully complex pink gin is made from the pure waters of Loch Ness itself. Now you can’t ask for much more than that. Citrus aromas make way for a stunningly crisp fruitiness - think pink lady apples and wild Scottish raspberries. A floral finish to round off the profile takes over with hibiscus and rose petal botanicals and Great Glen is it satisfying! Ice, premium tonic and a fresh raspberry garnish and that is one delightful sipper indeed.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £39.95

Pinkster Pink Gin

The pinkest of pink gins it’s Pinkster (try saying that after a couple of glasses of these). That striking hue is obtained through the use of real fresh raspberries, no chemicals or colouring. They’re grown local to the Cambridgeshire HQ and provide a lot more naturality, subtlety and smoothness to the gin. Super clean taste and gongs to prove it! Why not go the whole hog and garnish with fresh raspberries in a G&T?

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £35

The Best Spiced Gin to Gift

Rutland Square Chai Spiced Gin

If you like chai tea and spiced gin then you’ve hit the motherload. Made with white tea from Assam, this lovely gin is inspired by the founder’s great-grandfather who teamed up with a Scottish Army Officer to begin distilling while working on a tea estate. There is precision balance with warming cardamon, cinnamon and star anise lightened up by floral sweetness from the tea and a hint of creamy vanilla. There’s plenty to explore served neat over ice, but this would also add really interesting layers to many cocktails, like a spiced negroni. Beautiful bottle for gifting too we think.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £32.94

Atlas Shichimi Gin

If you’re not familiar with Atlas, they come up with exotic variations of gin from around the globe (Chai, Lovecake etc.) and this... Shichimi. If you’re into Japanese cooking, you might have this in your cupboard already for ramen, but it’s a very popular spice blend dating back to the 17th century. There are really unique botanicals here, with nori seaweed, ginger, gyokuro green tea and Sichuan peppercorn creating an unusual but instantly moreish umami profile. Of course, juniper and citrus freshen everything up but this is a really warming spicy gin and one to slowly sip! It would be a fantastic gift for a seasoned gin experimenter to try something new.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £48

The Best Navy Strength Gin to Gift

Shoogle Junniperous Gin - Navy Strength

This lip smacker begins with the same eleven botanicals used in Shoogle’s renowned Scottish Dry Gin and adds a few eyebrow raisers to the mix, like kumquat, baobab, tonka bean and pink peppercorn adding sweetness and textured mouthfeel. Juniper is amplified and pushed to the front of the stage, alongside the citrus notes, and all together there is a staggering amount of flavour for a Navy Strength it has to be said. Get plenty of ice in that glass, a premium light tonic and savour every sip!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 57%
Find here: £45

Pickering’s Gin Navy Strength

Allow us to introduce you to this extremely distinguished gin, the official tipple of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (check out what’s over the cap!). Pickering’s uses a family recipe passed down through generations, showing really bold juniper on the nose, and fragrant mandarin, cardamon and anise on the palate. After a few sips you’ll really notice the waves of exotic spice, and these carry through the finish with cumin in particular. One of the best things about this gin is the possibility to take it to the distillery in Edinburgh, and get it refilled! That’s right, if you keep the bottle someone there will fill it up! The everlasting gin, your wish is their command!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 57.1%
Find here: £39.66

The Best Old Tom Gin to Gift

Rock Rose Pink Grapefruit Old Tom

Old Tom Gin peaked in popularity in 18th century England, but has enjoyed a resurgence lately, particularly in cocktails. Muscovado sugar adds that trademark sweetness to this Old Tom, which uses organic pink grapefruit peel on top of a fresh and familiar botanical base. It’s a benchmark zesty Old Tom, but there’s something else we have to touch on. This gin is available in fully recyclable pouches! You can refill the stunning bottle, and just pop the pouch into a post-box (no stamp or envelope required) and Dunnet Bay Distillers take care of the rest. So, you still get to pour from the bottle, and it’s environmentally friendly too! Win win!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £32 Recyclable Pouch / £35 Bottle

Bullards Old Tom Gin

Another gin watching their carbon footprint is historic Norwich producer Bullards, which also offers the eco-refill pouch and picked up the 2020 Gin Guide Sustainability Award. The gin itself is also award winning, so this is really the complete package. Wonderfully warming with pink peppercorns, sweet with Norfolk honey and rich with mango, a touch of grapefruit citrus cuts through perfectly for a stunning expression. Simply add tonic and ice with a slice of grapefruit for a garnish and you’re smiling!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42.5%
Find here: £32

The Best Flavoured Gin to Gift

Pink Pepper – Audemus

Based in Cognac, French producer Audemus is aiming to move away from juniper-forward straight gins and create bold new flavours. They have a curious Umami Gin, but their flagship is this lovely Pink Pepper creation. Instantly on sipping, there’s in your face fresh and spicy pink peppercorns, cardamon and still prominent juniper. As the gin takes time to warm a little, baking notes of vanilla and tonka release, and when it comes to serving with tonic and ice, a floral side is shown. Lots of layers taking turns to come to the fore for a really interesting and well-rounded experience – a top gift for any gin lover for sure.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: £37.45

Malfy Con Arancia (Blood Orange), Italian Gin

This beautiful bottle has spruced up many a supermarket shelf in recent years, and we love it. This is a flavoured gin for drinkers that really want bold flavour. The blood orange is very concentrated, and usually this would mean a lack of freshness but no. It’s dense with fresh blood orange instead, creating that seductive ruby red and an extra long bittersweet citrussy finish. Truly a drink that transports you to the Italian coast in summer, but it's too delicious not to have all year round. An ideal gift from setting eyes on the bottle to the final drop.

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: UK £24.99 / US $27.99

Tanqueray Flor De Sevilla Distilled Gin

This is one of our absolute favourite gins. Not only are the floral flavours dancing, but the orange blossom has an unbelievably fresh feel as if it was squeezed straight into your glass. It’s inspired by an original Charles Tanqueray recipe from Spanish travels in the 1860s, and concoctions like this are part of the reason Tanqueray is loved so much by bar tenders and drinkers all the same! So much flavour here so serve neat over ice with some orange wedges if you have them.

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 41.3%
Find here: UK £19.99 / US $29.99

Mermaid Zest

Gaze your eyes upon this seaside wonder from Isle of Wight distillery Mermaid Gin, with its alluring potion-esque colouring. A true taste of the island, it includes coastal samphire, Boadicea hops and locally foraged floral bergamot and rosemary. The combination of refreshment and brightness with the herbal bouquet is a winning one and it’s just crying out for a G&T that forces a long ‘ahhhh’ out of you after the first sip.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38.24

Reverend Hubert's Winter Gin Liqueur

This recipe was created by Reverend Hubert Bell Lester at the beginning of the 20th century, as the renowned partier tried to create a liqueur to blow his army colleagues’ socks off. And he obviously hit upon something because here we are recommending it today! His great grandson Thomas revived it, and what a job. Crafted in the Cotswolds, it uses Amalfi Lemons, Sri Lankan spice and English rhubarb, variety that is reflected in that incredible bottle. Distinct in taste, it’s super smooth with aromatic dried fruit, winter spice and fresh citrusy bursts of orange and lemon. This is a must-have for any cocktail experimenters, elevating negronis and hot punches to the next level. It even comes in a striking gift box too. The complete package, literally.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 27%
Find here: £35.99

BEST OF THE REST

An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin

If you want something guaranteed to be a little different to your usual gins this, is it. How many seaweed varieties do you need in a gin you might ask? An Dúlamán from Donegal in Ireland contains not one, not two, not three but five different varieties of locally harvested seaweed! Combined with other fundamental botanicals, you’re left with a delicious savoury gin that packs gentle heat with very subtle lemon sweetness in tow. A fantastic gift for a gin newbie or someone that’s been around the block, both will love this. Try it with elderflower or lemon tonic for a stonking G&T.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 43.2%
Find here: £29.45

Glendalough Wild Botanical Gin

Happily staying in Ireland for a moment, this is a super simple sipper. Don’t mistake simple for dull for one minute, because a gin that’s this clean, crisp and light takes expert craftmanship and that’s exactly what Glendalough provide. The concept behind their Wild Botanical Gin is to represent an entire year in the glacial valley of Wicklow (The Garden of Ireland). From spring notes of juniper, citrus and pine, to summer flowers and autumn fruits on the palate, before a long winter spice finish, it’s a year in a glass! Love it. Everything’s sustainability foraged and used when fresh, so this ‘simple’ gin isn’t actually so simple after all! Plug alert - you can find out more about Glendalough during The Three Drinkers in Ireland on Amazon Prime!

Size: UK 700ml / US 750ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: UK £33.74 / US $29.99

Cantium Gin

So, there you are, perusing the shelves for gins and oh look, someone’s left their flask here. But wait, maybe this is in fact the gift you’re looking for! Cantium gin isn’t just masquerading as a flask... it is one. The gin itself is bold and citrussy, underpinned by tasty juniper and very soft spices, and once you’ve merrily polished it off, it becomes a flask! What an idea, right? And two presents in one. The only issue is making sure people at work know that you’ve got coffee in it now, because that, ‘gin in a reusable flask’ label could cause a few issues! ;)

Size: 500ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £39

Well, if you want to treat yourself to an incredible gin over Christmas, or you know a gin lover then you should be sorted. But the present buying work may not be done! If you’re on the hunt for amazing Christmas wines, then check out our guides on White, Red, and Bubbles!

Words by Calum Ecroyd

From Budget To Blowout: The Best Vodka To Gift This Christmas

Vodka is a spirit that spans generations and nations, and whilst it was born in Russia and the East of Europe, there are now quality producers absolutely everywhere. It’s still a drink that comes with misconceptions though, so if you’re looking to convert a doubter, or just get a vodka lover something they’re guaranteed to adore, allow us to be your tour guides through the best vodkas to gift this Christmas... starting with incredible value options!

The Best Vodka to Gift Under £20

Wyborowa Vodka

Translated to, ‘Selected’ in their language, this vodka is hugely popular in Poland where every part of it is made. It’s been winning international awards since 1930 and remains an ever-present bottle in the value categories. The Polish rye gives the Wyborowa vodka its distinct gentle pecan taste mixed with subtle sweetness, and it’s smooth and pure beyond its price. Any vodka enthusiast will appreciate this and its place in vodka heritage.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £18.59 

Luksusowa Vodka

Luksusowa is another 1920s Polish vodka overdelivering. Produced from potatoes along the Baltic Sea’s coastline, the soil is ‘loamy’ producing pure flavour. The result is a super clean aroma that’s subtly chalky, minerally, with grassy qualities, so this really has that, ‘vodka of the earth’ feel. There’s a loveable creamy taste, and a mildly peppery aftertaste too. A classic that’s more than earnt its place in the vodka hall of fame.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £19.74 // US $16.79

Zubrówka Bison Grass Vodka

 Completing the trio of excellent Polish value is Zubrówka which is infused with Hierochloe Odorata grass (there’s even a blade of it in the bottle)! It’s a unique variety grown in the Bialowieza Forest near the Ukrainian border – home to the eye-catching beast on the bottle, Polish Bison. Distilled from rye, the spirit is strained through this grass, creating the green hue you can see. As a result, there are plenty of herbal and aromatic notes at play, like cut grass, lavender, slight citrus and cracked pepper. This is a really unique sipping vodka and an incredible gift for a vodka lover. Have some fun working out the notes over ice, and then try it with apple juice or ginger ale!

Size: UK 700ml // US 1L
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: UK £19.94 // US $26.99

The Best Vodka to Gift Under £30

Black Cow Pure Milk Vodka

Vodka from cow’s milk? Yep. This is a rather unusual vodka that has been on everyone’s lips in more ways than one. It’s created on a West Dorset dairy farm using the whey left over from the farm’s cheddar (also great if you want to combine them as a gift!). You won’t be surprised to hear that this creates a decadent and creamy mouthfeel and as a result, it is amazing at the heart of an Espresso Martini or White Russian, but not before giving it a go neat!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.99

Debowa Polish Oak Vodka

We love this bottle with its retro 3D design style, and the sliver of oak wood included in every bottle. As you might imagine from looking at it, this Polish oak vodka is still produced in accordance with a traditional polish recipe and creates unparalleled buttery smoothness at this price point. There are delicate nuts and vanilla, but it’s the velvet feel that grabs the headlines.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £25.43

Brecon Five Black Vodka

Named because of the pure rock-filtered Brecon Beacons glacier water that goes into this 5 times distilled vodka, this is a masterpiece from the late Dr Jim Swan. A lovely Welsh vodka born from the same team behind Penderyn whisky, it has won gong after gong for ultra-smoothness in the mouth and a fruity barley spirit twist. Pure, natural, and crystal clear, not what you might guess from the sleek bottle!

Size: UK 700ml // US 1.75L
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £23.94 (usually more!) // US $26.99

Reyka Vodka

This Icelandic wheat and barley vodka is distilled in the most Icelandic way you can imagine. It uses icy glacial spring water and geothermal heat from underground volcanoes, establishing its reputation as one of the world’s greenest vodkas when it launched in 2005. Full and rounded, with a clean but creamy vanilla note that plays against peppery spice and fresh citrus, Reyka would sit pretty in a martini or simply with tonic and ice.

Size: UK 700ml // US 1.75L
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £26.94 // US $35.99

Sapling Vodka

... or to give it it’s full title, ‘Sapling Climate Positive Vodka’. For every bottle sold, a tree is planted. The unique code on the bottle tells you where and more about their planting project with the High Atlas Foundation. So it’s not just a pretty picture on the bottle, that’s what we like to hear! The vodka itself is distilled exclusively from British wheat, distilled four times over for a pure and naturally sweet taste. Detectable through this purity are gorgeous herbaceous and citrusy notes, so this would be amazing as a classic Vodka Lime soda. Climate positive and a tick from us on taste – cheers to that!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26.94

Tito's Vodka

Tito’s Vodka is as handmade as it first sounds. Tito who lives in in Austin Texas, uses old-fashioned pot stills and each small batch is meticulously taste tested and distilled six times to give a clean and pure vodka perfect for a luxury cocktail. Corn distillation imparts a touch of sweetness to the batches, so something like an Espresso Martini that would be top notch. The corn also means it’s gluten free by the way!

Size: UK 700ml // US 1L
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £27.85 // US $27.99

Cîroc Pineapple

Distilled five times from a base of frozen French grapes, Cîroc is pretty much as smooth as it gets. Whereas with some vodkas, smoothness is achieved at the sacrifice of character, that isn’t the case here, and that’s before the pineapple flavour is even introduced! This vibrant tropical twist tastes natural and of crushed pineapple, rather than flavouring. It would liven up a vodka lemonade and make a stellar gift for anyone who is a fan of the original Cîroc.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £29.95

FAIR. Quinoa Vodka

This first vodka made from quinoa is organic and Fair Trade certified and created by French distillers and Bolivian farmers. FAIR has been around for over 13 years now, committed to true fairness because no drink is worth it if exploitation is involved anywhere in the long process from soil to bottle. On top of these values, this full but delicate vodka is minerally on the nose with a nice sweetness on the palate. The very subtle but pleasant oiliness creates an incredibly smooth mouthfeel, and we’ve heard this is going down brilliantly with vodka lovers so give it a try!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £29.99 // US $34.79

The Best Vodka to Gift Under £40

Edwards 1902 Vodka

The finest King Edward potatoes going into this premium English vodka lend themselves to a gorgeous minerally vodka with earthy depth. On the nose, on the other hand, there’s a fruity, chocolate aroma. For a spirit that only launched in 2020, it’s been heavily praised at all of the major international competitions and is 100% smooth and crisp enough to sip the night away. It would also luxuriate any cocktail though, so it’s up to you! So good!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £34.94

Broken Clock Vodka

Hidgate’s Broken Clock is produced at one of England’s oldest distilleries in Cheshire, and the flavour suits this down to the ground as it’s infused with russet apples and garden botanicals from old Georgian recipes. This perfumed nose is met by a richly rounded palate in a vodka that oozes character and heritage. Try it in a martini with an olive for a very memorable drink.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £34.99

88 Vodka

If you like 88 Gin then this award-winning vodka by the same folks is definitely worth a try. For those of you who are drawn to fruitier vodka, this is also for you. It showcases the citrus notes that can sometimes go missing in other expressions with a refreshing tartness, all whilst retaining a gentle creamy feel. Serve with your favourite citrus fruit of course!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40 %
Find here: £35.95 

The Muff Liquor Company Irish Potato Vodka

A follow up to the success of Irish Potato Craft Gin, it’s The Muff Liquor Company’s Potato Vodka! Made with famous Irish potatoes, it’s distilled six times to create a delicately tuned vodka with a creamy taste and vanilla on the nose. There’s real character with it being based on the old recipes of Granda McClenaghan, but with pure and crisp modern distillation. Gorgeous vintage label too – sláinte!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £35.96

Tom of Finland Organic Vodka

Let us introduce you to Tom of Finland, aka Touko Laaksonen, a gay icon who’s pioneering visual art had a momentous impact on gay culture in the latter half of the last century. His creations focusing on masculinity and homoeroticism influenced the world, with his work represented by the leather-clad moustached man on the standout bottle. The vodka itself is organically produced in small batches by Master Distiller Mika Mönkkönen at the second oldest family run company in all of Finland; Lignell & Piispanen. Distilled five times through traditional sheet filters, there is no burn whatsoever, just subtle rye spice from aroma to finish and silky smoothness all the way! This really is an absolutely delicious industry-acclaimed vodka with an amazing story, and the final cherry on top is that proceeds from every purchase go to the Tom of Finland Foundation!

Size: UK 500ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £35.99 // US $34.79

Chase Aged Marmalade Vodka

Here’s a really interesting vodka from England produced from 100 per cent estate-grown potatoes. It’s a beautifully bittersweet orange-flavoured vodka made with zesty thick-cut Seville marmalade that carries over into a long tangy finish. Definitely one to try for anyone who loves experimenting with fruity vodkas!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £36.99 // US $29.99

G.H.Q. Vodka

Handcrafted at a secret location somewhere in the Scottish Highlands by unknown distillers using confidential recipes and Cairngorm water, G.H.Q present this glorious creamy vodka. Whoever’s handy work it is they’re clearly smashing it because this has been picked out for praise after praise. There’s a lovely balance of minerality and herbal elements, and noticeable hazelnut and honey in the mouth. Super relaxing to sip on, and it’d go well with Mediterranean tonic or ginger ale! This one won’t stay secret for long!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £37.95

The Best Luxury Vodka to Gift

X Muse

This is a vodka with really amazing flavour, named after a sculpture at the Bonnington Estate which the co-creator Robert Wilson owns. We should clarify, this isn’t a flavoured vodka, it’s a vodka with flavour! X Muse is a barley vodka blending two different heritage varieties together with notes of both fresh and cooked fruits giving great complexity. There’s a standout silky texture with intoxicating viscosity, and delicate touches of ginger and nutmeg surface on the palate too for a sublime experience. An absolute treat for any vodka lover.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £55.74

Crystal Head Aurora Vodka

Crystal Head has built itself a reputation as the world’s purest vodka, sourcing water from a natural aquifer that’s hidden on the extremely remote St John’s Newfoundland (the most Easter point in North America). The iconic skull design is created in celebration of the Aurora Borealis aka the Northern Lights and uses high-quality English wheat instead of the usual corn for a slightly spicier expression, with floral aromas and subtle anise. Filtered seven times before a final triple-filter through a cone of Herkimer diamonds, this is absolutely stunning as always and feels as special from the moment you lay your eyes on it to the moment you take your last sip.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £59.94 // US $57.99

If you want to kit out your home for the ultimate boozy Christmas, then check out our favourite luxury crackers this year, each filled with a variety of different delicious drinks!

Words by Calum Ecroyd

12 Cream Liqueurs Perfect for Sipping this Winter

It’s that time of year when we start to think of mistletoe, holly and Christmas trees, but what could be more quintessentially thought of as a Christmas drink than cream liqueurs? The shop shelves are awash with Baileys Irish Cream, however, good Baileys is, and it is very good, there are some other alternatives which are just as good if not better.

Cream liqueurs don’t have to be just Irish Cream. They can be made with other spirits than Irish whiskey too. Any whisky, be it Scotch or even English can be used. Rum can also be used. In fact, pretty much any good spirit used delicately can make a cream liqueur and even some that don’t even use dairy! To kick off the Christmas spirit I’ve found a few cream liqueurs which any drinks cupboard would be happy to house, the issue being that most cream liqueurs don’t hang around that long, which begs the question of why we don’t drink them all year round!

Cotswolds Cream Liqueur

Kicking off we have an English Cream Liqueur from one of the best distilleries in the country. This is made from new make from the Cotswolds distillery, which is the same spirit they are using to make their now famous whisky. All made with barley grown in the local area, it has a little fruity edge from the new make and is excellent over ice cream, but like most cream liqueurs is brilliant just by itself.

ABV: 17%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £25.95

Bumbu Cream Liqueur

Bumbu make a fabulous, spiced rum, and they also make this wonderful cream liqueur using rum from the Caribbean, a selection of spices and real dairy cream. It’s great to drink neat or over ice, but it mixes very well in cocktails. I’ve added a touch to an espresso martini to give it a creamy texture and smoothness and it works very well.

ABV: 15%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £29 // US $36.99

Coole Swan

An Irish cream liqueur made from Irish single malt whiskey, fresh Irish cream, and decadent Belgian white chocolate. This is one of the most velvety cream liqueurs I have experienced. It is also one of the sweetest, so if you have a sweet tooth, then this one is for you. It’s not cloying however and has a lovely balance leaving you wanting more. It’s good by itself, but is much better chilled, leaving the flavours to develop as the liquid warms on your palate.

ABV: 15%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £24.94 // US $29.99

Aldi Specially Selected Luxury Edition Irish Cream Liqueur

I recently did a taste test with a few of the biggest brands of Irish Cream, and it was very difficult to separate this one from the very best and well known in terms of quality. It is a little darker than most, but also a touch richer on the chocolate. It makes a nice change if you’re looking to have more than one cream liqueur. One thing which really does separate it from the rest of the pack is the price. It’s an absolute bargain!

ABV: 17%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £7.99

Amarula Cream

This is a very fruity cream liqueur with lots of caramel. It is made from the distilled fruit of the Marula tree in South Africa and it wins awards, with good reason. Beyond the cream liqueur there is the Amarula Trust which raises funds for conservation which protects the wildlife, especially the protection of elephants, and also funds educational projects.

ABV: 17%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £14.36 // US $23.99

Edradour Whisky Cream Liqueur

This is a Scotch whisky cream liqueur made with single malt whisky from the Edradour distillery. One of Scotland's smallest traditional distilleries. It is a cut above the rest of the regular cream liqueurs, yet remains great value for money at well under £20. A great bang for your buck.

ABV: 17%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £17.94

Kyrö Dairy Cream Liqueur

Hailing from Finland, this is made with local milk and cream and uses rye whiskey from the Kyrö distillery. Yet even though it is using local milk and cream it is lactose free! It is vanilla forward in flavour with a little nuttiness in the background and goes extremely well with coffee.

ABV: 16%
Size: 500ml
Find here: £21.95

Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur

This is an Irish cream liqueur from County Cork made with single batches of fresh cream and blended with triple distilled Irish whiskey all within 48 hours of the ingredients being collected. The name comes from the source of the ingredients which come from five family-owned farms in the area. A brilliant one to sip on its own and if you want to see more about how it is made, why not check out episode 3 of The Three Drinkers in Ireland?

ABV: 17%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find here: UK £27.09 // US $34.99

Tequila Black 38 Chocolate Cream

This is an exciting cream liqueur made from liqueur from Destilerías Espronceda. There is a freshness which is produced by tequila which balances perfectly with decadent chocolate flavours. If you’d like something a little unusual and you love Tequila, then is a winner for you.

ABV: 17%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £21.95

Original Magnum Cream Liqueur

Created by blending single malt whisky from the BenRiach distillery and Dutch cream, this is a very decadent cream liqueur. It is rich and chocolatey and is very good in coffee, poured over ice or ice-cream! And we’re digging the milk churn bottle shape here at The Three Drinks HQ.

ABV: 17%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £24.95

Baileys in Magnum

One can’t have an article on the best Cream Liqueurs without having Baileys on the list. It’s best-selling for a reason. The original cream liqueur was created by Tom Jago after many trials. The only thing better than a bottle of Bailey’s is a Magnum of Bailey’s!

ABV: 17%
Size: UK 1.5l // US750ml
Find here: UK £32.49 // US $26.99

Adriatico Amaretto Bianco

Lastly, we have an unusual alternative to a cream liqueur. It behaves like a cream liqueur but being made from crushed white almonds, it has a certain creaminess without having any dairy in it at all. With vanilla, cherries and sugared almond flavours, this is great for cocktails. If you have a dairy intolerance, or even if you don’t, this is delicious, and you won’t feel left out of the cream liqueur experience.

ABV: 16%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £28.74

Any of the above are rich and creamy and deserving of any festive celebration. If you’re looking for other Christmas suggestions and excitements why not have a look at The Best Tequila to Gift This Christmas or The Best Boxed Wine for Christmas?

Words by Colin Hampden-White

One Drink, Three Ways: Mount Gay Black Barrel

One Drink, Three Ways is the signature feature by The Three Drinkers. Join The Three Drinkers’ Helena, Aidy and Colin as they take one bottle and create a trio of phenomenal serves that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. From rums and whiskies to gins and wine styles, the three help you get the most out of your glass. It’s time to get liquid on lips.

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Mount Gay is the world’s oldest commercial rum distillery, with the oldest surviving deed dating from 1703! Ironically, it was a man called John Sober who originally started the small distillery at the top of Mount Gilboa, Barbados. After a while, Sir John Gay Alleyne, a fourth generation Barbadian was introduced, and the distillery grew from there, hence the company being named after him.

Their Black Barrel blend is distilled in traditional copper pot and column stills, matured for up to 7 years in American whiskey casks, and further aged for 6 months in heavily charred Bourbon casks. Unsurprisingly, that toasted oak comes through, as does gingerbread and the rich vanilla and pineapple you might expect from a golden Bajan rum. 

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Helena’s Choice: Cinnamon Twist

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My Cinnamon Twist is a kind of milky, spiced rum punch, variations of which have been around since the 1600s. The cinnamon syrup sits perfectly beside the deep vanilla and gingery notes and the milky rum behind it is so deliciously creamy, but still allows the toasty elements of the rum to shine. Shake with ice, then strain over a singular hefty ice cube in a chilled rock glass!

Cinnamon Twist

Recipe

60ml/2oz Mount Gay Black Barrel

44ml/1.5oz Whole Milk

22ml/0.75oz Cinnamon Syrup*

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Aidy’s Choice: Good Old Pine

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I’ve gone for pure Caribbean sunshine with Good Old Pine. The pineapple in the Black Barrel is mirrored by the tropical pineapple syrup, and the Angostura bitters keep that sweetness in check while also pairing well with the gentler spices in the rum. This is island refreshment at its best. To make it, add all the ingredients to a glass and stir over a big ice cube. Garnish with lemon peel and/or a pineapple frond if you’re feeling fancy.

Good Old Pine

Recipe

60ml/2oz Mount Gay Black Barrel

7.5ml/0.25 Pineapple Syrup*

2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters

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Colin’s Choice: Bajan Cafe

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The detectable vanilla and gingerbread in the Black Barrel pairs nicely with the coffee and almond flavours for a gently warming experience in this Bajan Café. Combined with the toasted notes, it gives a bakery profile to the cocktail that I absolutely love. Add everything, add ice and shake. Strain over ice and garnish with mint. Voilà – the Bajan Café.

Bajan Cafe

Recipe

60ml/2oz Mount Gay Black Barrel

30ml/1oz Orgeat

30ml/1oz Coffee

* To make your own pineapple syrup, you can just blend simple syrup with pineapple chunks. Keep the skin on for an earthier flavour, and just make sure to strain well before using. Try grilling it for another level of flavour!

For cinnamon syrup, take one part water (try 1 cup) to one part cane sugar and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Add 4 cinnamon sticks and allow to infuse for at least 1.5 hours - or overnight if you want more of a kick!

UK
ABV: 43%
Size: 700ml
Buy it now for £36

For more of our cocktail suggestions (they’re pretty good if we do say so ourselves), try our Samuel Gelston’s Irish Whisky Cream Liqueur concoctions here! The rest of our cocktails are here, where you’ll find wine, whisky, gin and much more.

The Best Tequila To Gift This Christmas

There’s no drink more harmed by its own reputation than tequila. Far too many people have mixed memories of shots, salt, and lime and have simply written it off as a throat burner. Wrong!

Whilst it’s always possible it’s just not to someone’s taste, it’s more likely that a little bit more exploring would go a long way. Tequila is a versatile spirit for all times of the year, and these beauties below shouldn’t be anywhere near shot glasses or salt. No burn, just pure agave nectar!

Whereas tequila may have once brought you and your friends together in the club, let it now become a coming together drink at Christmas time instead... and you can actually cherish it this time. So, whether you want to treat yourself, win over a doubting Thomas, or just impress a sombrero-wearing tequila lover this Christmas, we’ve listed our favourite tequilas of each type below!

The Best Blanco Tequila to Gift

El Espolòn Blanco

Renowned master distiller Cirilo Oropeza is behind this beautiful Blanco, crafting it in the highlands of Jalisco. This 100% blue agave beauty is bottled without aging, so just one smell gives you fresh agave front and centre, with floral notes and sweet flavours after sipping. What a bottle too! Espolòn comes from the spur of the rooster's foot, a bird of great significance in Mexican culture, so of course, there’s a Day of the Dead skeleton riding one on the label, what else?

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26.49

Próspero Blanco

Celebrities love to dip their toes into the world of tequila and mezcal, and in this case, Rita Ora has joined forces with distilling maestro Stella Anguiano to create Próspero. They have three styles: Blanco, Reposado and Añejo, but the Blanco stands apart from standard, un-aged tequila with a distinctly vibrant bouquet floral aroma followed by true 100% agave character and a slight spice to finish. If you’re looking for a cocktail Tequila, then this will definitely hold its corner, but it’s more than well-rounded enough to enjoy solo. We have to shout out the gorgeously designed bottle again. The Mexicans certainly know how to entice us in that’s for sure! Perfect for Christmas gifting.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £30.49

Tapatio 110 Blanco Tequila

Tapatio Blanco is a tequila that you’ll spot in many bars, but not this special edition. 110 proof, it’s a lip-smacking 55% ABV, so if you know someone that’s a seasoned tequila drinker, they might love this punchy concentrated flavour. There’s a loveable fruitiness from nose to finish, and a pleasant hit of peppery spice on the palate. Maybe not one for a newbie, but if you’re already a convert, this is a must try.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 55%
Find here: £31

Calle 23 Blanco

Another stylish bottle with that all important 100% agave trait you should seek out, this is an extremely pure expression of quality Blanco Tequila. It’s smooth and seductive with cooked agave at the fore. There are hints of citrus and herbaceous notes, but if you’re an agave purist then trust us, you’ll adore this!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £37.99

Casa Noble Blanco

This triple-distilled super smooth Blanco uses 100% Blue Weber agave grown in the rich, volcanic soil of the mountains in western Jalisco. There’s nothing rough around the edges at all, it’s simply pure, well balanced crisp nectar, with flavours of honey, fresh citrus and the agave itself which has an appetising buttery-sweetness to it. No lime or salt anywhere near this please.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £53.44

Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila

What we’ve got here is possibly the world’s first crystal clear multi-aged tequila. It’s an innovative blend of reposado (partially aged), añejo (aged for over a year) and extra añejo (aged for over three years). Usually, you would expect some colouring but with Dobel it’s filtered out, whilst retaining the beautiful creamy flavour and complexity the aging brings. With stunning layering of maple, nuts, and honey, this is ideal for anyone looking to try something a little different. It’s seriously good.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £47.90 (usually £54.90!)

Fortaleza Blanco

The family run Fortaleza was launched in 2005, after being dismissed decades earlier as inefficient and old fashioned. They’ve since become respected for their influential history and are now bottling some of the finest tequila there is. This is often the place tequila drinkers are trying to ‘get to’, because it represents everything a pristine Blanco should be. 100% stone crushed agave with delightful bursts of olive and butter, it’s earthy, peppery with gentle citrus. Class in a glass, and a bottle worth keeping too!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £56.40

The Best Reposado Tequila to Gift

Cazcabel Reposado

Allow us to introduce you to the Gold Medal winner for Premium Reposado at the 2019 Tequila Masters. American oak aged for 9 months, you’ll find earthy flavours at first, then gorgeous cinnamon, caramel, and dried fruit surfacing. At the heart of this supporting cast though is a particularly vegetal agave, still bold and sweet even after aging. Quality beyond its price point so it’s likely one you’ll want to return to.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £25.99

El Rayo Reposado

This is a strikingly contemporary tequila bottle that will really impress as a gift from the moment it’s revealed under the wrapping. El Rayo means, ‘the lightning’, referencing the legend of how lightning struck and cooked a Blue Weber agave plant, creating the first tequila! Cracking it open reveals a full-bodied and layered tequila with golden caramel colouring that’s matured for seven months in ex-whiskey casks, creating a Reposado that’s well worth trying, especially if someone’s never taken to it tequila before.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36.70

Patrón Reposado

When thinking of a tequila house that consistently delivers excellence across its range, we never stray too far from Patrón. Their Reposado picked up a Masters gong at the Tequila Masters in both 2020 and 2021, and with each bottle hand-filled, signed and uniquely numbered, it’s as close as you can get to a guaranteed hit as a gift. Lightly amber in colour, it’s bright with freshly squeezed citrus and smooth vanilla, all wrapped together by honey and agave. You’ll struggle to find a more suitable star for your margarita than this Reposado.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £47.45

Pancho Datos Reposado

The name Pancho Datos is homage to the great historian and poet of the Mexican Revolution, Ricardo Grijalva de León. Before reaching those ominously gorgeous bottles, Panchos Datos Reposado is at rest for six months in white oak barrels that were once used to mature bourbon whiskey. These barrels more than leave their mark with tasty vanilla and caramel notes that make it utterly delicious. The extremely rounded flavours would make for a characterful and smooth margarita, but you have to try it over just over ice first.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £41.50 (usually £49.50!)

Mijenta Tequila Reposado

Mijenta is sustainability as well as flavour royalty. They’re an artisanal, small batch producer in the Jalisco highlands that work closely with local communities to create a product that delivers not only for the drinker, but for the planet too. Even their label is made from discarded agave waste! The Reposado is aged for half a year in a blend of barrels – American white oak, French oak, and French acacia casks. As a result, it boasts of rich vanilla, nutty wood, and bold vegetal agave, with a velvety feel throughout. Great backstory, fantastic tequila, what more can you ask for?

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £63.95

Clase Azul Reposado

If we’re offering you some of the best options for gifting (or having yourself, let’s be honest) then we just can’t leave this out. We think it’s one of the most beautiful bottles we’ve seen, and we peruse a lot. Beyond the quirky bell that comes with it, each bottle is unique and 100% handcrafted by over 100 artists committed to working on 1 bottle at a time. Produced at one of the highest points in Los Altos, it’s rumoured that the extreme altitude has a unique effect on the flavour. Whether that’s true or not, it may as well be because it’s magnificent. The company’s secret yeast blend ferments the liquid before triple filtration distillation and fine oak aging completes the process. It’s picked up gold medals galore and if you’re fortunate enough to be able to really treat someone this Christmas, this is certainly the way to go! Just make sure no one throws away the bottle!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £209.95

The Best Añejo Tequila to Gift

Rooster Rojo Añejo

It’s our old friend the Mexican rooster again, this time on the front of a rich Añejo made by initially steaming the piña (the centre of the agave after harvesting) for 10 hours. Special yeast is added, before Rooster Rojo undergoes double pot distillation and maturing in ex-bourbon casks. As a result, you get mouth watering aromas of chocolate and coffee, with smoky tobacco and oak. Late come delicious, sweeter notes of caramel, vanilla and roast agave and a final wave of brown sugar on the finish. At this price, it’s absolutely irresistible.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £27.44

 1800 Añejo Tequila

There’s lots to catch your eye with this. First, the oversized cap and interesting bottle shape that is paying homage to the Mayan pyramids. Secondly, check out that striking caramel nectar colouring! Thirdly, and most importantly, the taste. There’s a pleasant and very noticeable woody spice, derived from French oak aging for over a year. The agave is less front and centre than most, so try it and see what you make of it!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £43.69

Casamigos Añejo Tequila

If George Clooney’s involved, then it’s got to be worth a look. He’s the gorgeous face of Casamigos, so much so that the master distiller behind it has never actually been named! The 100% blue agave piñas are slow cooked for 72 hours in their traditional brick ovens, after which begins the 80-hour fermentation process with a signature yeast blend that gives this tequila its extra refined flavour. It’s then time for American white oak casks for 14 months to smooth out further and the result... there’s a sublime taste of pure roasted agave and it’s brimming with toffee penny, dark chocolate, and sweetly spiced oak notes. Every single sip tastes like Christmas so waste no time in getting it open on the day itself. No George included but you can’t have everything!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £60.99

If you want to mix up belting Margaritas with the above beauties or find other tequila cocktails to try with them, check out our Best Selection here!

Words by Calum Ecroyd