‘I’ve tried more than 40 Christmas candles, but this one outshines them all’

For shoppers after a new winter-inspired burn, this is the one to light this season

I’ve worked as a shopping writer for three years, and in that time I’ve tested more than 40 candles – many of which were Christmas-themed, from spicy classics to sugary sweet scents. But this year, I think I’ve found a new favourite that’s truly outshone them all.

NEOM, the wellness brand known for its mood-boosting blends and gorgeously giftable packaging, has added a brand-new scent to its festive line-up: Sparkling Joy. At first sniff, it’s unlike any other Christmas candle I’ve tried.

It blends ginger, lime and vetiver, a combination that doesn’t sound traditionally festive, but somehow captures that just-decorated-the-tree magic. The ginger brings a cosy, warming spice, the lime cuts through with a zesty freshness (think crisp, cold December air), and the vetiver grounds it all with an elegant, earthy finish.

The votive itself deserves a moment, too. It comes in a pink gradient glass that looks so pretty, I’d happily keep it on display long after the last burn.

I’ve tried NEOM’s other Christmas scents over the years, and I’d say Sparkling Joy is most comparable to the iconic Christmas Wish. While they don’t share the same notes – Christmas Wish is all about cinnamon, tonka bean and mandarin – they both have that enveloping, nostalgic warmth that instantly makes a room feel festive.

I currently have Sparkling Joy in my WFH space; it’s such a treat to light it as I begin the day. The scent throw fills my medium-sized bedroom nicely and gives it a comforting, warming vibe.

Besides my enthusiasm, however, I admit that NEOM candles are expensive. Sparkling Joy is £40 for a single-wick candle, while the bumper three-wick candle is £58.

The quality is unmatched – the candles are hand-poured and made from essential oils. But it’s understandable if shoppers would prefer something a little more affordable.

In that case, I also recommend Yankee Candle’s Christmas range. I recently reviewed its £27 advent calendar, and thought it was a gorgeous, budget-friendly treat with some delightful scents to enjoy.

Otherwise, The White Company has a gorgeous selection of festive-inspired scents. Its latest release, Tonka, blends warming notes of tonka bean, rich tobacco and woody spice to create a cosy atmosphere that’ll likely make shoppers want to stay in all season.

Besides Sparkling Joy and Christmas Wish, NEOM has also brought back two old favourites: Perfect Peace and Cosy Nights. Cosy Nights is summed up well by its name; it’s a snug, cocooning scent with comforting notes of sandalwood, nutmeg and frankincense.

Meanwhile, Perfect Peace is a more refreshing take on festive fragrances, with fir, myrrh and lime giving it a crisp woodland feel. It’s ideal for those who prefer something lighter and more invigorating.

Shoppers keen to explore the whole range can view NEOM’s Christmas collection here. But for anyone looking for an unexpected favourite, Sparkling Joy could be the perfect candle to light this season.