‘Tis the season to drink and get merry, and what better way to dive into the Christmas spirit(s) than by raising a glass to some festive tipples? From gingerbread espresso martinis to mince pie in a bottle, we’ve unwrapped a boozy lineup of drinks to buy that are bursting with yuletide cheer – and a few that might be better suited to the naughty list.
So, pour yourself a glass and join us as we separate the Christmas crackers from the real turkeys. Cheers to the good, the bad, and the bubbly!
ALDI Infusionist Toffee Flavour Liqueur 70cl, £12.99
They say: Smooth vodka liqueur which gives sparkle with edible shimmer and has mouth-watering flavours of toffee
We say: The edible sparkle was very festive and we could imagine it elevating a Christmas cocktail – but it verged on being too sweet. 3/5
Pickering’s Brussels Sprout Gin, 20cl, £13.00
They say: Pickering’s Gin with Brussels Sprout has been a best-selling festive flavour since Christmas 2019, and we’re delighted to have it back for another year.
We say: The veg is famously divisive, and this gin is no exception. It really smelled of sprouts and the green colour was a bit off-putting but we could see it being a conversation starter at Christmas dinner. 2.5/5
Dunnet Bay Gingerbread Espresso Martini, 50cl, £27.00
They say: A delicious blend of cold brew coffee, gingerbread syrup and Holy Grass Vodka.
We say: Perfect for waking people after Christmas Day slump in front of the telly. A festive twist on a much-loved classic with a lovely gingerbread taste. 4/5
Sixpence Pud Gin Liqueur, 50cl, £15.00
They say: A rich Christmas liqueur with a golden shimmer, boasting notes of apple, Christmas spices, candied fruit, vanilla and caramel.
We say: Natasha hates Christmas pudding and didn’t like this, while Lydia loves the dessert so enjoyed this too. This drink does what it says on its festively-shaped tin. Also doubles up as a handy decoration. 3/5
Waitrose No.1 Blonde Chocolate Flavour Cream Liqueur, 70cl, £11.20
They say: It’s rich and indulgent, with luscious notes of caramelised white chocolate. Delicious chilled or over ice, or try it poured over ice cream for a grown-up dessert.
We say: Tasted just like a chocolate bar melted down, with hints of vanilla and coconut, one for those with a sweet tooth. 4/5.
ASDA Extra Special Spiced White Chocolate Flavour Cream Liqueur, 70cl, £8.00
They say: Infused with Irish Whiskey and Extracts of Madagascan Vanilla, Warming Nutmeg, and Clove.
We say: We were expecting this to have a chocolate flavour but the clove was overpowering – it also had a watery consistency. 1/5.
LIDL Tio Nico Country Creams Biscoff,70cl,£7.49
They say: A blend of cream and alcohol with caramel biscuit flavour inspired by Biscoff.
We say: has a rich, biscuit flavour that isn’t too overpowering and also smelled delicious. A good Budget-friendly option. 4/5.
Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Tiramisu Rum Liqueur, 50cl, £15.00
They say: A delicious blend of Caribbean rum, dark chocolate and coffee, creating a decadent liqueur.
We say: Has quite a subtle coffee flavour which worked well with the rum – we could imagine this as the base for a Christmas cocktail or enjoyed over ice . 4/5.
Aldi Ballycastle Milk Chocolate Clementine Flavour Country Cream Liqueur, 70cl, £7.49
They say: Limited-edition milk chocolate clementine flavoured version of Aldi’s Country Cream liqueur.
We say: Like a liquid Terry’s Chocolate Orange but dangerous as it doesn’t feel like you’re drinking alcohol. Sure to be a Christmas Day crowd-pleaser. 4/5.
M&S Mince Pie Liqueur 70cl, £18.00
They say: Our Mince Pie Liqueur comes in a beautiful one-of-a-kind bottle which lights up when you touch it for extra seasonal sparkle.
We say: Has a lot of spice and fruity flavour – would work well just poured over ice. Gets bonus points for the stunning light-up bottle 5/5. OUR TOP PICK
Edinburgh Christmas Gin, 70cl, £32.90 (on offer at Amazon for £26.80)
They say: Edinburgh Gin Christmas is truly one of a kind, filled with yuletide aromatics of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove
We say: Has floral and botanical flavours and one for gin lovers – but aside from the bottle it doesn’t scream Christmassy. 3/5.
Morrisons Winter Warmer Mulled Wine, 75cl, £4.00
They say: Blending the finest ingredients, this aromatic mulled wine has a smooth texture and character of subtle cinnamon, clove spices and zesty citrus fruit.
We say: Nice enough for the price point, but coats the mouth and leaves an after taste. 2.5/5
