The Best Christmas Advent Calendars of 2024: A Boozy Countdown to Christmas

The countdown to Christmas is well and truly underway, with only mere days left before the daily excitement of opening that little door to find your treat inside arrives. But why should kids have all the fun? Grown-ups deserve a little holiday indulgence too! So this year, why not embrace the season with an advent calendar that offers something a bit more spirited?

We’ve taken on the important (and very enjoyable) task of tasting and testing a wide variety of alcohol-filled advent calendars to find you the best options for 2024. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur, a gin enthusiast, a rum aficionado, or simply looking for something non-alcoholic, there’s a calendar waiting to delight your senses this holiday season.

While these calendars may seem a little expensive at first glance, they offer incredible value for money when you consider the opportunity to sample an array of different styles and brands—without the need to commit to full bottles. So sit back, relax, and we ho, ho, ho-pe you have a very Merry Christmas when it arrives!

The Best Gin Advent Calendar: Craft Gin Club 2024 Advent Calendar

For gin lovers, the Craft Gin Club Advent Calendar is a true showstopper this year. Packed with 25 expertly curated gins, this calendar features a stunning array of classic, dry, and citrus-infused craft gins, many of which are new for 2024. Some of these will put you into the perfect Christmassy mood such as the exclusive Christmas cake gin from Tarquin’s, some will make you reminisce about some of the beautiful gins you’ve enjoyed throughout the year and let’s not forget the five mystery gins waiting to be discovered throughout the month. Each gin is thoughtfully paired with tasting notes to enhance your experience and transport you to the heart of Christmas. Cheers to that!

Cost: £89.99
Bottles: 25 x 50ml
Find it here: Craft Gin Club

The Best Rum Advent Calendar: The Rum Company Advent Calendar

Rum fans, rejoice because this year, The Rum Company brings you an exciting selection of rums from the UK! With a mix of rich, smoky, sweet, and tropical notes, there’s something for every rum lover’s palate. One standout inclusion is the seasonal Lytham Jamaican Gingerbread Rum, perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit. Whether you prefer sipping your rum neat or mixing it into cocktails, this calendar is certain to get you excited about new brands to look out for in 2025.

Cost: £139.99
Bottles: 24 x 50ml
Find it here: The Rum Company

The Best Whisky Advent Calendar: The Whisky Exchange ‘Whiskies of the World’ Advent Calendar

This year's The Whisky Exchange 2024 Advent Calendar features 25 stunning whiskies from some of the world’s most renowned distilleries and includes a wonderful mix of Scotch, Irish, American, and Japanese whiskies. From smooth single malts to bold small-batch blends and rye, there is something for every whisky lover to enjoy. The calendar also has a free perfect measure glass to really elevate each tasting experience. Cheers to that!

Cost: £130
Bottles: 25 x 30ml
Find it here: The Whisky Exchange

The Best Vodka Advent Calendar: Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar

For a twist on the traditional, the Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar is a must-try. Containing some familiar favourites from previous years as well as plenty of new treats to explore, this year’s calendar features 25 different vodkas from some of the world’s best producers. Expect a mix of classic and flavoured vodkas, from fruity infusions to more festive options, which offer a great way to introduce yourself to some of the amazing choices there are out there.

Cost: £74.95
Bottles: 25 x 30ml
Find it here: Master of Malt

The Best Cocktail Advent Calendar: NIO Cocktails 12-Day Advent Calendar

Put the jigger and shaker back in the cupboard as NIO has you sorted with this fabulous selection of 12 expertly crafted cocktails—two servings of each, so you can share the joy. From festive favourites like the Winter Sidecar to a holiday twist on the Christmas Margarita there is something for everyone to enjoy. Who knows, you might just find your 2025 go-to cocktail right here!

Cost: £135
Cocktails: 24 cocktails
Find it here: NIO Cocktails

The Best No-Lo Advent Calendar: DryDRINKER Beer Advent Calendar

We were so impressed with DryDRINKER’s Dad’s Day calendar for Father’s Day that we couldn’t miss the chance to give them another shout out for their seasonal advent. Featuring a variety of lagers, pilsners, stouts, porters, and IPAs, each with an ABV ranging from 0.0% to 0.5%,  the DryDRINKER Beer Advent Calendar offers a perfect selection of no and low-ABV craft beers. This would be the ideal gift for the beer lover in your life who wants to countdown to Christmas enjoying all the flavour with none of the buzz.

Cost: £67.95
Cans: 24 x 330ml cans
Find it here: DryDRINKER

So there we have it! We hope this list helps you discover your new favourite festive indulgence and brings plenty of cheer to your countdown to Christmas!

The Three Drinkers in Cognac Wins Award For ‘Cultural Contribution to The Spirits Industry’

The Three Drinkers are delighted to announce that their TV series The Three Drinkers in Cognac has won the award for ‘Cultural Contribution to the Spirits Industry’ at The Spirits Business Awards 2024. Photo Credit Eva Slusarek.

What are the Spirits Business Awards?

Launched in 2019, The Spirits Business Awards is an annual, global competition, that Spanning five core areas – Retail and Marketing, Sustainability and Innovation, Tourism, Products, and People - celebrates excellence across the spirits industry.

This year, The Spirits Business Awards ceremony took place at The Underglobe in London on Thursday 14 November 2024 and was hosted by Claudia Winkleman, best-known for presenting TV shows Strictly Come Dancing and The Traitors.

The Three Drinkers Managing Director Aidy Smith said “I am absolutely delighted that we have been recognised for this award. Our mission as always with The Three Drinkers series was to embrace not only the culture of the regions visited, but also to welcome more diverse faces into the industry. Through The Three Drinkers in Cognac, not only have we showcased the cultural identity of one of the most renowned, yet unknown regions on the planet but we have also ensured that we do our part to support the next generation of drinks talent from underrepresented communities. It’s been an ongoing mission to showcase that diversity in drinks is possible and we’re delighted to stand with our partners who have helped us make that a reality in this latest series. The fact that this has been recognised by the industry fills me with such hope for the future.”

Comments from The Spirits Business

‘A clear winner – The Three Drinkers stood out from a cultural contribution point of view. It has been rolled out to various territories, and brilliantly incorporates food and travel with a spirit-forward approach – and successfully brings people together. There’s a huge community representation, which was highly praised.’

Photo Credit Eva Slusarek

What is ‘The Three Drinkers’?

The Three Drinkers is a returning drinks and food travelogue TV series on Amazon Prime featuring a deliciously diverse revolving roster of guests. From Scotland to Ireland to Cognac, each season is created with the sole intention of showcasing the culture, drinks and food of the regions visited as well as giving those people and communities who struggle to be seen within drinks on TV a chance to shine.

Alongside the multi-award-winning Amazon Three Drinkers TV series, The Three Drinkers also run a drink, travel and lifestyle-focused online magazine thethreedrinkers.com and have a growing social media/influencer presence (@thethreedrinkers).

More about The Three Drinkers in Cognac

The Three Drinkers in Cognac follows Aidy Smith and Helena Nicklin as they embark on a cultural and gastronomic journey in and around the picturesque French region of Cognac. Featuring Virgin Radio presenter and Persian foodie fanatic Eddy Temple-Morris alongside a returning appearance for travel presenter, journalist and influencer Eulanda Shead-Osagiede, the team take a deep dive into highballs and cocktails, discover the unique dishes of the region, try their hand at chocolate crafting, shoemaking, beekeeping, and more.

In classic Three Drinkers style, and helped by famed houses Courvoisier and Remy Martin, alongside the world-famous orange liqueur of the region, Grand Marnier, The Three Drinkers bust the misconceptions about cognac through their light-hearted, on-screen approach, helping the audience to discover brand new ways of enjoying this world-class spirit. They also check out local, pioneering gin makers, Audemus Distillery while discovering the fascinating world of mixers, sodas and tonics with Franklin & Sons. This is a series for those who seek to be inspired and learn through humour, quirky facts and takeaway titbits of drinks knowledge.

If you would like to watch any of The Three Drinkers series on Amazon Prime, you can do so by clicking on the links below:

The Three Drinkers in Cognac
The Three Drinkers in Ireland
The Three Drinkers do Scotch Whisky

The Best Christmas Market Near You in 2024

No one loves the long winter nights that bring darkness by the afternoon, but in the build up to Christmas, this darkness is filled with the glimmering twinkle of Christmas markets. Come November, Britain’s towns and cities burst into full festive mode with chalets selling their wares, pop-up bars bustling with life and all manner of entertainment from giant wheels to magical ice rinks. There’s something special going on almost everywhere, but these are the Christmas markets that take things to that next level.

Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland, London

We can’t not include Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, promising, yet again, a festive dreamland that keeps visitors of all ages entertained. Home to the UK’s largest open-air ice-skating rink, carnival rides galore, and a sprawling Christmas market, this attraction is a London winter must-see on a scale not seen anywhere else. Not only are there the Bavarian stalls for handcrafted gifts and tasty treats like churros, bratwursts, and warming mugs of mulled wine, but other gates grant access to much more; the 70m observation wheel, a grotto, live music, ice bars, sculptures and fire pits to name a few. In terms of tickets, entrance costs between £5 and £7.50 (it’s London guys!), but there are a few different options and discounts depending on when you go and whether you pre-book rides – take a look on the site below. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s a stone’s throw from the incredible window displays of Regent and Oxford Street.

Dates: November 21 2024 - January 5 2025
Nearest station: Victoria and Paddington
Nearest tube: Hyde Park Corner and Marble Arch
Nearest car park: Q-Park
Website

South Bank, London

Right by the London Eye, the South Bank Winter Festival brings unique stalls offering global food delights, the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge, and a breathtaking riverside view. Alongside the market, there’s a full line-up of festive shows and events to catch nearby, making it an ideal stop for a festive night out in the capital. Look out for multi-sensory experiences, exhibitions, live podcasts and more.

Dates: November 1 2024 –  26 December 2024 (though some events continue after this)
Nearest station: Waterloo and Southwark
Nearest tube: Waterloo, Southwark and Embankment
Nearest car park: APCOA South Bank
Website

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

If you want a huge Christmas market to explore, look no further. Birmingham’s festival is the biggest outside of Germany and Austria, bringing Bavarian charm and festive cheer to Victoria Square and New Street. Known for traditional bratwurst, gluhwein, and stollen, it is teeming with handcrafted gifts, charming chalets, and carol singing. Expect big wheels, ice rinks and a singing Christmas moose called ‘Chris Moose’ too.

Dates: November 1 2024 –  24 December 2024
Nearest station: Birmingham New Street
Nearest car park: Swallow Street/Town Hall
Website

Edinburgh Christmas Market, Edinburgh

Of course, this festival hotspot has a cracking Christmas Market. In recent years, it’s expanded across Princes Street Gardens to The Mound and up the Royal Mile, all set against possibly the best-looking backdrop in the UK. Expect stalls full of artisan crafts, gourmet foods, and Christmas magic including Santa’s stories, the big wheel, illuminated paths, and a 450 strong Christmas Tree maze. And all for free!

Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 4, 2024
Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverley
Nearest car park: Castle Terrace
Website

Winter Wonderland, Nottingham

Positioned underneath one of the most impressive giant Christmas trees is East Midlands’ largest Christmas market, lighting up Nottingham’s Old Market Square with 70 Bavarian-style stalls, fairground rides, and live music. Grotto, ice rink, observation wheel, rides and a stunning ice bar – it’s the complete package.

Dates: November 13, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Nearest station: Nottingham
Nearest car park: Lace Market, Trinity Square and Broad Marsh
Website

Manchester Christmas Market, Manchester

One of the UK’s longest-standing and largest Christmas markets, Manchester’s festive zones take over nine city locations, with Albert Square’s grand setting leading the way. Visit Exchange Square, Cathedral Gardens, and Piccadilly Gardens to experience the best of European market flair, with everything from handmade crafts to mulled wine… and we mean everything – the variety is remarkable. Bear in mind that many stalls here are cash-only!

Dates: November 8, 2024 – December 22, 2024
Nearest station: Victoria, Piccadilly, or Oxford Road Station
Nearest car park: King Street West and China Town (parking in Ancoats is quieter and cheaper, and still within walking distance)
Website

Bath Christmas Market, Bath

Nestled within UNESCO World Heritage site Bath’s Georgian streets, the Christmas market is beloved for its distinctive artisan crafts, handmade gifts, and local food and drink options. The 150+ chalet stalls, all locally sourced, reflect the market’s commitment to quality and authenticity. With Bath Abbey as a backdrop, it’s a truly scenic holiday setting, and the perfect stop for a day of festive shopping, then unwinding at Bath’s famous spa. This market is consistently recognised as one of the UK’s best.

Dates: November 28, 2024 – December 15, 2024
Nearest station: Bath Spa (it’s also not far from London)
Nearest car park: Manvers Street, Avon Street and Kingsmead Square
Website

Cardiff Christmas Market, Cardiff

Named The Times’ Number One market in the UK, Cardiff’s Christmas Market has been perfecting its festive charm for 30 years this year, so it’s a big anniversary! Celebrating handmade craftsmanship, it features unique items from local artisans, whether that’s stunning glasswork, intricate ceramics, or beautifully crafted jewellery. Vendors change every 5-10 days, so you’ll find new treasures every week. Stroll through Hayes, Trinity Street, St. John, and Working Street to enjoy seasonal aromas and the sparkle of one-of-a-kind gifts, all in charming pedestrian-only areas.

Dates: November 14, 2024 – December 23, 2024
Nearest station: Cardiff Central and Queen Street
Nearest car park: NCP Westgate Street, NCP Cardiff Rappots
Website

Winchester Cathedral, Winchester

Winchester Cathedral’s enchanting Christmas market has earned its place among Europe’s Top Ten and was named the UK’s second-best Christmas market in 2018. With around 100 thoughtfully chosen chalets, it transforms the Cathedral grounds into a festive wonderland, filled with tempting treats and unique gifts. The atmosphere is completed by the Cathedral Choir’s uplifting carols, adding an unforgettable, magical touch to this historic setting.

Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 22, 2024
Nearest station: Winchester (near Southampton, and 1hr from London)
Nearest car park: Barfied P&R and St. Catherines P&R
Website

St Nicholas Fair, York

York’s beautiful Christmas Market is set against a backdrop of historical charm, making it a must-visit during the festive season. Stroll past alpine-style chalets filled with locally crafted gifts, artwork, and delicious seasonal treats. The towering Christmas tree and talented buskers fill the streets with holiday spirit, while the twinkling lights set a cozy, magical mood. York’s compact layout makes exploring on foot easy, with highlights like The Shambles Market adding an extra touch of medieval allure. This award-winning market is a true festive gem.

Dates: November 17, 2024 – December 23, 2024
Nearest station: York
Nearest car park: Coppergate or Q-Park, but York Park & Ride is free, with £3.60 buses every 12mins.
Website

If you really want to embrace the Christmas countdown, how about a Wine Advent Calendar?

The Best Wine Advent Calendars of 2024

Why should kids have all the countdown fun? Boozy advent calendars have redefined holiday anticipation, turning December into a delightfully wine-filled journey. Each year, new and imaginative creations emerge, with offerings that aren’t just about quantity but real quality. And the best bit? You don’t need to risk buying a whole bottle to get a taste. This year, whether it’s 12 full-sized bottles or 24 perfectly poured sippers, there’s a treat waiting behind every door, so even if the rest of your days are filled with buildup and stress, you get a moment to yourself.

If wine discovery sparks your joy, then these calendars are your ticket to exploring new varietals from around the world. We’ve scoured the options to help you find the best of the bunch and arrived at this selection. Go on, treat yourself - you deserve it!

Laithwaites Mixed 2024 Advent Calendar

Laithwaites offers a merry mix of red, white, and rosé, perfect for any wine lover. Each day holds a 187ml bottle, and the grand finale? A 750ml pricey Prosecco for a true Christmas Eve toast! It’s a thoughtful and crowd-pleasing selection from an industry favourite, making it easy to try something new each day while sticking to trusted wines. A festive choice for classic tastes with a touch of surprise. You simply pay your £10 deposit (which gets taken off the price later on) to secure your calendar.

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 187ml plus 1 x full size bottle
Find here: £89.99

Virgin Wines Mixed Wine Advent Calendar 2024

Virgin Wines led the charge in bringing wine advent calendars to the UK, and they’re still nailing it. This aesthetic selection boasts reds, whites, rosés, and fizz, each tucked behind a festive door, building to a celebratory full bottle on Christmas Day – yep, 25 doors. Each wine is handpicked and many are from small producers you won’t find at your local store. So, if you’re the type who loves a holiday surprise and discovering hidden wine gems, this calendar is the perfect countdown companion. If you’d rather zero in on red or white, then they have those options too.

Advent Days included: 25
Bottle/Can Size: 187ml
Find here: £89.99

Perfect Cellars Fine Wine Advent Calendar 2024

Perfect Cellars brings elegance to every festive sip with this line up of 24 premium wines. From Bordeaux classics to Italian icons, the focus here is on world-leading regions, with each 100ml pouch includes a story of provenance, making each day a refined journey in wine. If you’re after something rich and sophisticated without breaking the bank, this calendar is your go-to for luxurious tasting nights at home.

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 100ml
Find here: £189

Naked Wines Advent Calendar 2024

Naked Wines has crafted a line up of wine pouches from its independent winemaker network, each with its own special twist. Expect reds, whites, and perhaps even a dessert wine to keep things interesting. Packaged in a pull-out bookshelf design, it’s an affordable yet generous choice for anyone keen on supporting indie winemakers and exploring something new each day. You even get a QR code to read about where the wine you’re currently drinking came from… and the money you spend on it will be reinvested into supporting small winemakers too!

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 100ml
Find here: £99.99

Brixton Wine Club Advent Calendar 2024  

Get adventurous with Brixton Wine Club’s fun-filled calendar, featuring a mix of award-winning wines from the UK’s independent wine scene as well as nine other nations. Each day delivers a unique taste, like Mediterranean orange wine or low-intervention Riesling. The sleek can design is a convenient and eco-friendly way to enjoy your wines, making this an ideal pick for the curious and eco-conscious drinker. Interesting and accessible wines every day – what’s not to love?

Advent Days included: 24
Bottle/Can Size: 187ml-250ml
Find here: £130

If you’re after a spirit advent then fear not, we’re all over that too – check here!

Is This Pumpkin Spice White Russian the Perfect Autumn Cocktail?

The dreamy combination of vodka, coffee liqueur and cream already have that chilly but indulgent feel to it that Autumn demands, but we can go one step further. We’ve got our eyes on the perfect Autumn cocktail, and surely this is it?

Pumpkin spice, most famous for taking over the world of lattés, is amazing in cocktails. If you’re not familiar with it, then it’s an American spice mix containing all those beautiful dark spices we associate with winter – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and occasionally allspice. You can add it into cocktail via pumpkin spice syrup, but for the White Russian, a creamer works best – you can make this yourself or buy a readymade mix.

The vodka provides a hearty structure to the cocktail, the coffee liqueur injects some lively sweetness, the creamer brings some beautifully aromatic spices, and then we have the cream creating an airy, luxurious texture. It’s heavy, indulgent and so, so comforting.

This seasonal spin is highly adaptable, hence why much of it is optional. If you’d like a stronger cocktail, you could easily add two shots of vodka without affecting the balance too much for starters. If you want more sweetness, then go for a pumpkin spice syrup (like Monin) over the creamer. The original White Russian includes heavy cream in the mix, so you could do that here for a richer feel or squirt some whipped cream on top – it’s all about your preference. Lastly, for garnishes you have so many options, but we suggest a cinnamon sprinkle for an inviting aesthetic, or even a cinnamon stick to slowly infuse the flavour.

Ingredients:
30ml vodka
30ml coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
30ml pumpkin spice creamer
10ml heavy cream (optional)
Whipped cream (optional) Cinnamon stick/sprinkle (optional)

Method:
Mix or shake everything together with ice before pouring over ice in a small glass. As mentioned, you could leave the creamy top as a snowy aesthetic, or sprinkle with some cinnamon – both look great.

Navigating Non-Alcoholic Drinks with Franklin & Sons

Globally, cocktail culture is in a magnificent place, with many bars having gorgeous menus listing many alcoholic and non-alcoholic concoctions. But, in reality, some of the non-alc options are... terrible. It can be so difficult when you want a night on the town with friends and loved ones to have a delicious drink when you aren't drinking alcohol. Too often, bartenders think they can slap a syrup and a soda together and create a "good enough" non-alcoholic option. What so many fail to realise is "good enough" is rarely that. Syrupy sodas can get exhausting, making it feel like a full night of sipping sugar. Even mocktail menus can rely too heavily on simple elements like a flavoured syrup to carry the entire drink through to the guest. For people who are choosing not to drink on a night out, drinks options can range from, at best, undeniably underwhelming to, at worst, a cloying cluster. With a few tips and a little ingenuity, however, navigating a non-alcoholic night out will be easier and yummier than it seems. Here’s how:

Craft sodas 

Some of the later ideas will take a little explaining, a little innovation, some luck, and a fair bit of social bravery to help the staff combine the ideal non-alcoholic drink. This first option, however, is easy. It's an incredible saving grace that simplifies everything if the establishment carries craft sodas. Craft soda brands are mixing up mocktails in a bottle. Obviously, craft sodas vary in quality and sweetness which will have to be navigated with caution. Franklin & Sons creates a range which encompasses all of the favourites like Dandelion & Burdock, Grapefruit, and Rhubarb Lemonade. Not only do they make delicious flavoured soda waters that could stand up to the best-selling global competitor, they also have beautifully made classic rich soda options. 

TOP-TIER: Franklin & Sons Peach & Mango 

Brand new to the UK market, this is flying off the shelves as the expression of these two flavours together is nothing short of harmonious. The Franklin & Sons craft sodas come in a canned and bottled range and are a great blend of not-too-sweet and full of flavour. The Peach & Mango Soda is transportative and tropical. There aren't many products on the market that can take either peach or mango as a flavouring and create a balanced beverage - much less both. In any good beverage, excellence lies in balance - the balance of sweet and sour, the balance of carbonation intensity, and the balance of all the flavours together. The Franklin & Sons Peach & Mango Soda is perfectly adjusted in all of these aspects. An impressive burst of fruity flavour, without overwhelming your taste buds so much that you won't be able to have another. There are a lot of great craft sodas on the market, but this one is at the top of the list to keep the fun flowing and the flavour fantastic.

Soft Spritzes 

With a new non-alcoholic spirit or bottled mix coming out seemingly every day, it's getting easier and easier for bartenders to combine flavours and add in some soda water for a non-alcoholic cocktail. The problem that becomes very obvious very quickly, is taste. Commercial non-alcoholic spirits are often trying to replicate the taste of a specific alcohol, the burn of the alcohol, or the texture the botanicals provide. For people who aren't seeking a replica of the alcohol experience, the desire asks for something far less sweet than a sugary soda and more balanced with experimentation and work. Enter: the non-alcoholic bitter. These beverages, popularised from Italy, are creeping their way into stores in the UK and the US. They have everything a delicious mocktail needs: time-tested recipes, balanced sweet and bitterness for complex flavour, and packaged in an adorable glass bottle. Though not the most common thing to see in a restaurant or bar fridge, most bars and restaurants can get them quite easily. While there are many different options, the cream always rises to the top:

TOP-TIER: Dandelion & Burdock Soda + Pineapple & Almond Soda 

Dandelion & Burdock is a classic UK blend that wouldn’t necessarily be a staple in other countries. But the flavour is strong, balanced, and balances the bittersweet expertly. Those not used to bittersweet drinks might not enjoy it upon first try. For anyone with a lot of experience drinking spritzes - or any bittersweet drinks - adding an extra pop of jazziness via a craft soda water is ideal. Mixing in the Pineapple & Almond Soda in equal amounts to the Dandelion & Burdock will open up the flavour and stretch the enjoyment time making a lasting spritz experience with a depth and multitude of flavour. A lot of great cocktail bars have bottles of Franklin & Sons stashed away, but if they don't, they can easily get it upon request from a guest. And any kind-enough server or bartender won't mind combining two into one.

.001% Mixes (approximately)

If there's a hard rule for avoiding all alcohol, entirely, without exception, under any circumstances, this section won't be useful. However, if you're okay with trace amounts only measurable in minute scientific terms, a whole new world opens up with bitters and tinctures. As an industry rule, when a guest expresses they aren't imbibing in alcohol, staff respectfully avoid bitters and tinctures as they are alcohol based. However, the creative flavour landscape changes entirely if a guest says, "I'd like something non-alcoholic, but bitters and tinctures are okay!" With bitters being the spice rack of the mixology world, a whole cupboard of combinations await that one simple caveat. 

TOP-TIER: Guava & Lime with Honey and Bitters 

The Franklin & Sons sodas are delicious all on their own, but the experience can be maximised with a few additions to the full flavour already in the bottles. Utilising the spice rack of the drinks world, bitters can change and add complexity to many low-almost-no-alcohol drinks. The honey will accentuate the Guava richness, the bitters work perfectly with the lime, and the lime wedges will add extra zing to the delightful bubble structure across the whole Franklin & Sons portfolio. This cocktail - a loose adaptation of the Australian sensation “Lemon Lime Bitters” - will zhuzh up your night out instantly. Traditionally, imbibers haven't ever had more than two dashes of bitters, but this 8 dash recipe brings an unbelievable flavour bomb to the combination below. But, also, everything mentioned above would be delicious with a few dashes of bitters. 

Ingredients:
3 lime wedges muddled
1 bottle Franklin & Sons Guava & Lime Soda 
15 ml honey 
8 dashes aromatic bitters 

Method:
Combine all ingredients and add ice.

Bar programs are realising the growing demand for thoughtful, delicious non-alcoholic options. Finding or requesting craft sodas or soft spritzes or asking for a drink with bitters to create a balanced, flavorful drink without alcohol doesn't have to be a challenge. With the right ingredients and a bit of courage to ask the staff, non-alcoholic beverages can offer just as much complexity and enjoyment as their boozy counterparts. These options make it clear that alcohol-free nights out can be just as delicious and memorable. All it takes is a little exploration and openness from both bartenders and guests to elevate and enhance the non-alc experience. Cheers to a vibrant, flavourful night out—now available with more flavour!

For more info check out these non-alcoholic options too.

By Zach Sapato 

What's The Difference Between Wet Shaking and Dry Shaking Cocktails?

Whether you're behind the bar or just shaking things up at home, knowing how to shake a cocktail properly is key to nailing that perfect blend. But what's with all the talk about wet shaking and dry shaking? It’s all liquid isn’t it? Don’t worry if you’re a bit confused – we’ve got the lowdown on these essential techniques, why they matter more than you might think, and how to use them to customise your cocktails.

What is a Wet Shake and What is a Dry Shake?

A wet shake is your classic cocktail shake, where you toss in some ice with your ingredients, giving them a good chill while mixing them all together. This technique dilutes and cools your drink – perfect for a crisp, refreshing sip. Most wet shakes should take less than 20 seconds to avoid ‘overshaking’.

A dry shake, on the other hand, involves shaking your cocktail without ice. This is usually done when you're working with egg whites or aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) to create a lovely frothy head because emulsification and aeration are better at room temperature. Think cocktails like the classic Whisky Sour or a Ramos Gin Fizz – the dry shake ensures your froth is light and velvety before you wet shake it to cool things down. This method takes slightly longer than wet shaking, usually at least 30 seconds to really work the ingredients through and give the texture time to develop.

Are there other types of cocktail shaking?

Yes! Beyond the wet and dry shake, there’s the reverse dry shake. This is where you shake with ice first, strain the ice out, and then shake again without it… but with the egg white included. The result? An even fluffier foam!  There’s no need to strain after that final shake, so all that glorious velvety foam goes into the glass.

Half of mixology is, of course, about the show, so it makes sense that are many variations of shakes. For example, the hard shake, invented by Japanese bartender Kazuo Ueda, is a wet shake that uses highly stylised gentle shaking to give greater control over the shaker.

Then there’s the double shake – a two-step process designed for more complex cocktails where you can shake two shakers at one time.

Essentially though, wet and dry are the two categories – with and without ice.

Why whether you wet or dry shake your cocktail matters

Shaking your cocktail isn’t just about looking cool (although that’s a nice bonus). It directly affects the drink’s texture and taste. Firstly, whatever you shake, its fundamental purpose is to combine ingredients. A cocktail, in most cases, should be homogenous, with one enjoyable liquid rather than out of balance hits of the individual components.

Wet shaking chills and dilutes your cocktail, creating a perfectly balanced drink that’s refreshing.

Dry shaking, meanwhile, helps to aerate the mixture, giving cocktails that silky, frothy texture. It can also reduce bitterness and increase sweetness, did you know?

Whether you're using one or the other, the method plays a big role in how your drink feels on the palate. By varying the duration of your shakes and their styles, you can control the aeration, dilution and temperature of your cocktails – which has a huge impact.

An example of a wet shake cocktail

Daiquiri

Almost all cocktails require wet shakes so you could use many examples, but the Daiquiri is a classic, combining sweet and tart flavours with refreshing ice. Some bars have ruined the Daiquiri if you ask us, turning it into a sugary slush puppy, but if you make sure your ice isn’t blended or too broken up, and you go easy on the syrup, it’s a winner.

Ingredients:
50ml white rum
25ml lime juice
15ml simple syrup
Lime twist (garnish)

Method:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. As a top tip, take a look at your ice cubes once strained – they should be curved at the edges, rather than totally shattered.

An example of a dry shake cocktail

Whisky Sour

Sours, with their use of egg white, are the best example of dry shaking; the most famous of which is surely the Whisky Sour. With vanilla, caramel and rich fruits from the whisky, the vivid sour lemon freshness, some sweetness for balance and frothy egg white, it’s a luxurious and sophisticated serve.

Ingredients:
50ml bourbon
30ml lemon juice
15ml simple syrup
Dash of Angostura bitters (optional)
1 egg white
Cherry or lemon (garnish)

Method:
First, dry shake all ingredients (without ice) for 30 seconds to froth the egg white. Add ice, shake again, and strain into a glass. Top with a dash of bitters for added complexity and aesthetics.

If you’re really getting into your cocktail making, then check out our home bar essentials guide here.

Up Your Halloween Game With These Perfect Halloween Treats and Cocktail Pairings

If you’ve got kids or you just want to be fully prepared for Trick or Treaters, chances are you’ll be stocked with Halloween Treats this October. Or perhaps you just want to get involved, celebrate the spooky season and have a bit of a party. Whatever your justification (not that you need one!), Halloween sweets can make a wonderful pairing with some of our favourite cocktails. Because Halloween isn’t just about costumes, it’s about indulgence. So, for a grown-up celebration, we’ve taken some of the country’s most beloved chocolates and sweets, and paired them up with the perfect cocktail. Let’s dive into boo-zy bliss!

White Russian + Snickers

This Big Lebowski favourite is the indulgent combination of vodka, coffee liqueur and cream, but for even more indulgence, Snickers is the perfect pairing. The richness of the cocktail enhances the sweetness and texture from the caramel and nut-filled Snickers. Vodka, coffee, chocolate, nuts and cream – this is a proper dessert cocktail. Find your White Russian recipe here.

Espresso Martini + Dark Chocolate

Of course, dark chocolate is perfect alongside an Espresso Martini – so much so that you can even get chocolate riffs of the original. Coffee and chocolate embrace the Mocha style, but to avoid too much sweetness stick with rich dark chocolate. This way, the intense espresso notes complement the bittersweet cocoa, and the structure of the hearty vodka keeps everything in place. Find your Espresso Martini recipe here.

Rum Punch + Starburst

If you’re into intense flavours and have people round for Halloween, then a big Rum Punch is perfect. To complete the match made in tropical heaven, playful, juicy Starburst brings some sweetness to the punch. Both offer vibrant, bold fruity, tangy flavours so it works well to liven up any party. If you’re into subtle, nuanced flavours then swerve this, but since when has Halloween been about subtlety!? Find your Rum Punch recipe here.

Dark ‘n’ Stormy + Bounty

And you thought things couldn’t get any more tropical! The rum and ginger of a Dark 'n' Stormy perfectly complement the coconutty sweetness of a Bounty. The spicy notes of the cocktail cut through the creamy coconut, creating a balance that’s indulgent yet refreshing - ideal for an exotic twist on your Halloween feast. Find your Dark ‘N Stormy recipe here.

Irish Coffee + Milky Way

This comforting combination blends the warm, boozy kick of an Irish Coffee with the soft, chocolatey sweetness of a Milky Way. The coffee's bitterness cuts through the caramel and nougat, making it a cosy, comforting duo to enjoy on a crisp Halloween evening. Find your Irish Coffee recipe here.

Margarita + Gummy Bears

A classic Margarita’s sharp lime zing pairs wonderfully with the tangy sweetness of Gummy Bears. The salt rim brings out the fruity flavours of the sweets, while the tequila adds a bold kick, turning this playful pairing into a fiesta in your mouth - perfect for Halloween mischief. With the chewiness, touch of salt and vibrant zing of citrus, it’s a very interesting pairing. Find your Margarita recipe here.

Gold Rush + Twix

If you’re not familiar with the Gold Rush, it’s essentially a Whiskey Sour with honey; so, bourbon, lemon and floral honey for the sweetness. This complements the sweet caramel crunch of Twix brilliantly, adding to the rich biscuit flavour. It’s so satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated, and that residual citrus and bourbon punch is enough to cut through and refresh somewhat. To make your Gold Rush, follow this recipe:

Ingredients:
60ml bourbon
20ml lemon juice
20ml honey syrup
Garnish (lemon twist)

Method:
Shake everything well with ice until it feels chilled to the touch. Strain into a rocks glass over just one large ice cube, and finish with a wonderful lemon twist.

Clover Club + Skittles

The fruity, raspberry notes of a Clover Club cocktail make a perfect pairing for the rainbow of flavours in Skittles. This combo bursts with juicy, tangy fun, balancing the cocktail's delicate sweetness with the zingy, chewy texture of the sweets. A thing of beauty. Find your Clover Club recipe here.

Martini + Liquorice

If you want a slight break from fruity or chocolatey sweetness, then try this. For something bold and adventurous, pair the bracing botanicals of a Martini with the dark, intense flavour of liquorice. The sharpness of gin and vermouth plays off the earthy, slightly bitter notes of liquorice, creating a surprisingly harmonious combo for those with a taste for the unexpected. It’s a well-known combo, especially if you use a gin with liquorice as a botanical, like Hayman’s or Beefeater. Find your Martini recipe here.

French 75 + Lemon Sherbet

Lemon lovers, this is the motherload. The sparkling, citrusy kick of a French 75 is made for a playful pairing with lemon sherbets. The champagne bubbles and the gin’s sharpness highlight the zesty tang of the sweets, creating a fresh, fizzy sensation that’ll have you reaching for more. A refreshing and cheeky pairing for Halloween celebrations. Find your French 75 recipe here.

If you want to stylise your cocktails for the season, then these easy-to-make garnishes are surprisingly effective!