EVERYONE likes a little tipple at Christmas.
Drinks expert Carmen O’Neal, aka Cocktail Carmen, reveals eight festive bottles which will go down a treat with their recipients.
Ukiyo Japanese Blossom Gin, 700ml, £32
Fusing cherry blossom, yuzu citrus and traditional Japanese botanicals, this is light, floral and refreshing – just perfect for someone stylsih who loves an elegant, modern gin.
Serve with premium tonic and a twist of grapefruit or shake into a festive spritz.
It’s pairs beautifully with light canapés or even a citrusy pavlova.
Jim Beam Black, 700ml, £31.50
A smooth, aged bourbon with gorgeous notes of caramel, vanilla and gentle spice.
It’s rich without being too heavy, making it a great gift for anyone who wants to explore bourbon in an approchable, easy-sipping way.
Enjoy it neat by the fire, with ginger ale and lime, or in an Old Fashioned.
Goes brilliantly with pecan pie or sticky toffee pud.
Baileys Terry’s Chocolate Orange, 500ml, £17 (£11 with a Tesco Clubcard)
Christmas in a glass, combining creamy Baileys with the nostalgic, zesty chocolate-orange flavour everyone loves.
It’s indulgent, sweet and perfect for cosy winter nights in.
Pour over ice or add a splash to hot chocolate for the ultimate festive treat.
Pair with mince pies or yule log.
Patrón XO Café, 700ml, £46
Blending smooth Patrón tequila with rich, dark coffee, this is a bold but beautifully balanced liqueur, ideal for anyone curious about tequila but unsure where to start.
Sip it neat after dinner or use it for a slightly different espresso.
A definite splurge, this is a brilliant gift for coffee lovers and night-owls.
It’s superb with Christmas pud.
Bottega Pistachio Liqueur, 500ml, £15 (£13 with a Tesco Clubcard)
Creamy, nutty and sweet, this tastes like luxurious pistachio gelato in liquid form.
It’s a dreamy treat for anyone who loves dessert liqueurs or Italian inspired flavours – plus it’s dairy-free.
Serve over ice, mix into creamy cocktails or even vanilla ice cream for a Christmas show-stopper.
Perfect with panettone.
Ciroc Cosmopolitan Cocktail, 500ml, £16 (£10 with a Tesco Clubcard)
This ready-to-serve cocktail, mixes Ciroc’s ultra smooth vodka with cranberry, orange and lime.
Fresh, fruity and chic, it’s ideal for parties or anyone who loves Sex and the City vibes.
Simply chill, shake and pour into a martini glass for instant glam.
Pairs well with cheese, especially creamy brie.
Clean Co Non-Alcoholic Botanical Spirit, 700ml, £16 (£10 with a Tesco Clubcard)
Booze-free does not need to be boring. This drink has crisp juniper, citrus and herbal notes, giving all the sophistication of a classic spirit, without the units.
It’s perfect for mindful drinkers or designated drivers. Enjoy with a good tonic, lemon and ice.
Ideal with salmon blinis.
Warninks Advocaat, 700ml, £15.50 (£11 with a Tesco Clubcard)
This is a festive classic – rich, velvety and custard-smooth with a gentle vanilla warmth.
It’s the must-have ingredient for a nostalgic Snowball cocktail.
Serve over ice with lemonade and a squeeze of lime or neat for an pudding-like treat.
Perfect with shortbread, trifle or any creamy dessert.
