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!

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 

8 Alcohol Free Drinks You Need On Your Radar

Sober October is here, and Dry January is on the horizon. These movements are becoming more and more popular, as drinkers seek to focus on their health and avoid deadly hangovers. But, it’s not just a change in attitudes that has led to more and more people trying alcohol-free alternatives.

The drinks have improved massively. Let’s be honest, many alcohol-free alternatives in the past have left us feeling a bit underwhelmed. But fear not – times are changing. The NoLo industry has grown massively over the past decade, with brewers and scientists putting serious effort into creating authentic, flavour-packed options. So, if you’ve been disappointed when trying one years ago, now’s the time to give No-Lo a second chance.

We’ve sampled a wide range of offerings, and below are alcohol-free (or under 0.5%) alternatives to your favourite drinks that are guaranteed to impress. Cheers to mindful drinking!

The Best Gin Alternatives Non-Alcoholic Drinks

CleanCo Clean G Non-Alcoholic

Many drinks brands get a celebrity boost at the start, but if the quality’s not there they soon fall away. Spencer Matthews helped create CleanCo but it’s their commitment to innovative, well-made No-Lo spirits that has resulted in the awards. Clean G is a spot-on alternative to classic gin. Inspired by the essence of London Dry Gin, it captures the crispness of juniper with zesty citrus and a delicate floral note. Its cloudy appearance and smooth finish reflect the care put into its creation. There’s a mellow lemonade character to it with that bright citrus, so it would pair with tonic really nicely.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £19.51

Herbarium Distillation 8 - Floral Herbs

Herbarium Drinks, known for their innovative alcohol-free spirits, introduce Herbarium Distillation 8 – Floral Herbs, a botanical masterpiece designed to bring nature's best to your glass. Crafted by founders Steve and Andrew themselves, this spirit is hand-distilled in small batches using copper pot stills, ensuring an authentic and pure experience with no added sugars, sweeteners, or flavourings. Floral herbs like rosemary, lemongrass, and lavender shine through, balanced by a subtle pink peppery spice and warming citrus notes. Perfect as a gin alternative, simply serve with tonic, ice, and a slice of citrus for a refreshing and sophisticated drink.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £21.75

The Tequila Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Almave Ambar Distilled Non-Alcoholic Blue Weber Spirit

This is another celebrity-fronted creation that got a bit of a head start via F1 star Lewis Hamilton, but that’s not why we’re including it. Tequila expert Iván Saldaña led the project, distilling from Blue Weber agave in Jalisco, Mexico, using traditional techniques – except it skips the fermentation, keeping it alcohol-free (or under 0.5%). With a deep amber hue, it delivers notes of caramel, roasted agave, and toasted wood, balanced by allspice and cacao. It’s got the agave heritage as well as modern innovation.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £24.95

The Best Rum Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Caleño Dark & Spicy

Inspired by the vibrant flavours of Colombia, Caleño Dark & Spicy offers an exotic, tropical twist on traditional rum alternatives. This alcohol-free spirit bursts with juicy pineapple, coconut, ginger, vanilla, and earthy black cardamom. With no added sugar, its natural sweetness shines, making it a versatile option for cocktails or mixing with soda or ginger beer. It’s not a direct swap for dark rum and perhaps resembles spiced rum more accurately but could definitely step in as an alternative in many a rum cocktail.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £17.99

The Best Wine Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Wednesday’s Domaine – Sanguine & Vignette

Wednesday’s Domaine aim to adhere to a ‘real’ wine experience. Their two distinct alcohol-free reds really capture that essence, beginning with Spanish Tempranillo grapes. First, Sanguine. A light, easy-drinking red, bursting with vibrant raspberry, damson, and blueberry notes, complemented by a subtle hint of spice. Its bright acidity and delicate structure make it perfect for casual sipping. Next up, Vignette, a more complex, full-bodied red, ideal for pairing with meals. Rich with flavours of dark plums, damson, and a touch of forest floor, it has a long, dry finish that adds sophistication.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £29.99 (for 2)

The Best Sparkling Wine Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

La Gioiosa Italian Alcohol Free Sparkling Wine

A lot of non-alcoholic sparkling wine can suffer from being overly sweet or offering nothing at all; La Gioiosa avoids those pitfalls brilliantly, bringing a taste of Italy's finest bubbles. Made in the heart of Prosecco country, it resembles that style impressively with elegance, effervescence and a pale straw hue. Think crisp apple, fruit salad, zesty citrus and mellow florality with acacia and wisteria. It’s lovely, light and refreshing – and good value too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £8.19

The Best Beer Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drink

Lucky Saint Hazy IPA

Lucky Saint delivers a bold, juicy Hazy IPA with tropical and stone fruit notes that pack a punch. Brewed with a blend of pale malts and New World hops, this unfiltered IPA offers maximum flavour without the alcohol. Its slightly hazy appearance and crisp citrus bitterness make it a refreshing choice for those seeking all the taste of a quality brew, minus the hangover.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £6 (for 4)

The Best Spirit Alternative Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Sentia Gaba Spirit Black

Now this is for those drinkers that enjoy the tipsy headspace but not the hangovers. Sentia Gaba is the world’s first GABA spirit designed to elevate your mood without alcohol. Created by leading scientists, this plant-based spirit features a patent-pending blend of botanicals that enhance GABA activity in your brain—much like alcohol—promoting feelings of calm and sociability. Their Red version is to unwind after work, but Black is more active. It’s earthy, intense and layered up with liquorice, warm pepper and bitter smoke. From the potion-like bottle to the tar-black hue to the unexpected wooziness, this is true No-Lo innovation.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £32

If it’s wine you’re after, then we’ve got an entire article dedicated to Alcohol-Free Wines here.

Lewis Hamilton Creates Non Alcoholic 'Tequila'

For those who are fans of the taste of Tequila and F1 Racing, we have news of an exciting collaboration! Lewis Hamilton has ventured off the racing track and into the world of Tequila by helping to create Almave, a brand new non-alcoholic ‘Tequila’.

So, who else is part of this amazing joint venture as well as the 7 time formula one world champion, Sir Lewis Hamilton? It is none other than renowned biochemist Iván Saldaña, creator of some of Mexico’s most innovative spirits. Saldaña founded Casa Lumbra in 2011, which went on to create favourites such as Ancho Reyes, Abasolo Ancestral Corn Whisky and Montelobos Mezcal, to name but a few. However, until Lewis Hamilton got involved they had not yet created any non-alcoholic variations.

There are other options of non-alcoholic products aimed at Tequila fans on the market, but Lewis felt they were all missing something, they didn't quite make the podium so to speak! The exciting fact about Almave is the process used to make it captures that same level of taste and enjoyment found in the alcoholic equivalent. Almave is made from blue Weber agave, using traditional tequila production, with a multi step distillation process in traditional copper pots. The difference is fermentation is completely skipped, so it remains totally alcohol free, while still keeping all the taste and feel of traditional tequila. This does, however, mean it cannot officially be called Tequila, as true tequila is required to have alcohol content.

What does it taste like you might ask? Well, there are two different options, Amabar and Blanco, which replicate the flavours found in aged (Amabar) and Blanco/Silver (Blanco) tequila. The Amabar is dark and rich with aromas of caramel and vanilla and flavours of brown sugar, Allspice and Cacao. Blanco has more of a fruity, sweet and herbaceous note with a hint of acidity.

If you’re looking for other ways to enjoy this non-alcoholic ‘tequila’, here is a fabulous mocktail suggestion…

ÁMBAR CARAJILLO

Ingredients
2 oz Almave Ambar
1 oz Cold Brew Concentrate
0.5 oz Agave Nectar
3 dashes Orange Bitters
1 dash Aromatic Bitters
A dash of salt

Method
Combine all the ingredients in a shaker, add ice and shake vigorously. Strain the mix into a small coupe glass, making sure to shake out all that good foam for a nice head. Lightly squeeze an orange peel on top and enjoy!

Amabar
Size: 700ml
Find here: £27

Blanco
Size: 700ml
Find here: £24

How to Make a Tasty Mocktail

Mocktails are having a moment, and for good reason—they offer all the fun and flavour of a cocktail without the alcohol. Whether you're hosting a party which everyone feels part of, looking to cut back on drinking, or just want a refreshing but elevated beverage, learning to craft a delicious mocktail is a skill worth mastering.

The laziest mocktails will simply replace the alcoholic element with water or be little more than sparkling juices. But we need to remember that when you remove the alcohol, you’re removing layers and depth of expert distillation with it – these need to be replaced. With a few simple tips, you can turn a basic non-alcoholic drink into something special, ensuring it’s as enjoyable as any cocktail. Let’s dive into the essentials of making a truly tasty mocktail.

Use Fresh Ingredients

The foundation of any great mocktail is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh fruits, like citrus, berries, and tropical varieties, add vibrant flavour and natural sweetness to your drink. Freshly squeezed juices are far superior to store-bought ones, bringing a crisp, refreshing taste that elevates your mocktail. Herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary add aromatic complexity, while fresh ginger or jalapeño can provide a spicy kick. By prioritizing fresh ingredients, you ensure that every sip of your mocktail is bursting with life and flavour.

Balance Your Flavours

A mocktail should be as complex and balanced as any good cocktail, but when the spirit isn’t there to be the star, it can be difficult. This means carefully balancing sweet, sour, and sometimes even bitter elements to create a drink that delights the palate. Too much sweetness can be cloying, while too much acidity can be overwhelming. Both are easy traps to fall into when it comes to popular mocktail ingredients like syrups and citrus.

Quality alcoholic drinks have a lot going on, so we need to impart those missing flavours wherever possible. Sweetness is a perfect vehicle to do that because although simple syrups work well, infusing your own is so simple – that way you can easily accompany your sugar with honey, or maple, or berries, or mint, or whatever you wish! Check out our guide here.

Play around with different ratios until you find a mix that works for you—maybe it’s a splash of lemon juice to counteract sweetness, or a dash of bitters to add depth; Angostura and Peychaud’s should be cupboard mainstays. Also don’t be afraid to use salt as it’s perfect for balancing out citrus and sweetness and providing a subtle savoury nod which is needed to round off bright, acid-driven mixes. Remember, the goal is to create a well-rounded drink that keeps you coming back for more.

One other thing to remember is dilution. Played off against the boozy intensity of most cocktails, dilution isn’t as much of a problem, but with no intense spirit in a mocktail, it runs the risk of becoming washed out. You still need ice however, but just remember to use a bit less than you normally would, or to use bigger ice cubes so you concoction isn’t overdiluted by the time it’s melted.

Incorporate Texture

Texture is an often-overlooked element of mocktail making, but it’s crucial for creating an interesting and satisfying drink. Consider adding different textural elements like sparkling water, tonic, ginger beer or sparkling tea for effervescence, crushed ice for a frosty feel, or a creamy component like coconut milk for richness. Even something as simple as muddling herbs or fruit can add a tactile element that enhances the drinking experience. A great mocktail isn’t just about taste—it’s about how it feels in your mouth, so don’t be afraid to get creative with texture. One of the biggest mistakes mocktail-makers-make is forgetting how much water is in alcoholic drinks – just adding a splash of water in replacement of the missing spirit helps with mouthfeel.

One thing you can still use from the world of cocktails is egg white, or aquafaba for vegans. It delivers that lovely viscous foam and silky texture that really sets a mocktail apart from being a simple juice.

Don’t Skimp on Presentation

We drink with our eyes first, so presentation matters just as much as flavour when it comes to mocktails. Use beautiful glassware to make the drink feel special—think tall glasses for layered drinks or coupe glasses for a more elegant feel. Garnishes like citrus twists, fresh herbs, or edible flowers can add colour and visual interest, making the mocktail feel more like an occasion. Even the type of ice you use can make a difference—large, clear cubes or crushed ice can change the entire look of the drink. A well-presented mocktail is always more inviting and sets you up for an experience, not just a drink.

Experiment with Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices can transform a simple mocktail into something truly extraordinary. Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or thyme add a fragrant, aromatic quality that makes the drink more complex. Spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger can add warmth and depth, giving the mocktail a more sophisticated flavour profile. All of these regularly come through in alcoholic drinks, so we’re simply putting them back in – just without the booze. Don’t be afraid to mix and match, experimenting with different combinations can lead to exciting, unexpected results. The key is to use these elements sparingly, so they enhance rather than overpower the drink.

Quality Over Quantity with Mixers

When it comes to mixers, quality is key. Opt for high-quality tonic water, ginger beer, or other mixers that complement your ingredients rather than overshadow them. These can add layers of flavour to your mocktail, making it taste more refined and polished. Avoid overly sweet or artificial-tasting mixers, as they can throw off the balance of your drink. Sometimes, less is more—a well-chosen mixer can elevate your mocktail from ordinary to extraordinary with just a splash. Remember! These are now the stars of your show, and they can’t hide behind a quality rum or gin anymore.

A Standard Mocktail Recipe

Clearly there is no one size fits all mocktail recipe, and if you incorporate No-Lo alternatives this won’t apply, but there is a basic structure that bartenders build from. With so many nuances involved in ingredient choice, quality and personal preference, it’s difficult to give exact measurements but generally speaking, this is a good place to start from:

15ml Syrup (could be simple syrup, honey, agave syrup, homemade fruit syrup, No-Lo liqueur or even dissolved sugar)
30ml Citrus (most likely this will be lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit, and it should always be freshly squeezed if possible)
Around 75ml Water (this could be still, sparkling water, tonic, flavoured tonic or even tea)
Dashes of bitters (Angostura and Peychaud’s offer so much depth, but experiment with other bitters too)
Lastly, make a full effort with ice, glassware and garnish for the full, elevated mocktail experience.

Making a tasty mocktail is all about creativity, balance, and attention to detail. By using fresh ingredients, balancing flavours, incorporating texture, paying attention to presentation, experimenting with herbs and spices, and choosing quality mixers, you can craft mocktails that are just as enjoyable as their alcoholic counterparts – and even more so, if you include the morning!

Of course, with the flourishing world of alcohol-free alternatives available to us, some mocktails can be as simple as substituting these in for the boozy version. For our favourite No-Lo Alternatives, go here. Or for some Mocktail Recipes to get you started, click here.

Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Brands and Love in Drinks

Pride Month is one of our favourite times of the year, and of course, so many drinks brands are happy to get involved. But as Pride draws to a close, we want to celebrate our favourites, old and new, that really go the extra mile and support LGBTQIA+ communities. Whatever your chosen tipple, we’ve found a drink that you can enjoy whenever you’d like knowing that they support the cause all year round.

GIN

Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin Unlimited Edition LGTBIQ+

This Spanish Strawberry Gin from Puerto de Indias continues to fly the rainbow flag proudly. Made with fresh strawberries macerated for 48 hours before distillation, this process intensifies the flavours and aromas of the fruit considerably. They’ve made a point of stating that it’s not a Limited Edition by calling the opposite – an Unlimited Edition.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £26.34

Spirit of Stonewall Gin

Made at the family distillery in Lincolnshire comes the delicious Spirit of Stonewall London Dry gin. Their inspiration came from the Stonewall Riots and they provide all year advocacy support of LGBTQIA+ including donating £1 from every bottle or gift pack to support LGBTQIA+ causes. Their complex London Dry has botanicals of juniper, coriander, orange, liquorice, almonds, the tangy coastal berry and sea buckthorn. Check out their Passionfruit and Mango, Pink Rhubarb and Raspberry Gins too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36

Brighton Gin

From the UK’s gay capital comes this handmade craft gin brand that started in 2012. From small beginnings, it’s now available internationally! Look how absolutely stunning their 9th Limited Pride Edition is too with that glammed up Brighton seagull, courtesy of ‘queerodivergent’ artist Ladypat. Bravo! So much effort has been put into this gin, right up to the hand-mixed wax. A portion of the profits go to the local Clare Project too. As for the liquid, it’s super smooth with multiple awards loving it. Watch out for the delicious orange and liquorice notes.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38

VODKA

Crystal Head Pride Edition

Crystal Head’s Pride Edition, an annual limited release that we love, stands out as the most theatrical bottle on the market. This vibrant rainbow-painted piece supports organizations like the Kaleidoscope Trust and Stonewall. Inside, enjoy their signature Canadian corn vodka, distilled four times with pure Newfoundland water and Herkimer diamond filtration, featuring hints of sweet citrus and vanilla.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £42.49 (usually more!)

Absolut Rainbow Pride

Long time ally, Absolut’s Pride edition features the proud, striking rainbow bottle in their permanent collection. Made with Swedish waters and winter wheat, this smooth, creamy vodka earned high praise at recent awards. Partnered with GLAAD, Absolut supports cultural change for acceptance, honouring Gilbert Baker's original Pride flag design.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £22.25

Supergay Vodka

Beautifully hand crafted in upstate New York, Supergay uses 100% organic corn from local sources and is filtered through activated coconut charcoal too for a clean, no-nasties expression. Super smooth and silky. Great vodka and amazing ethos. Only available in the US unfortunately, where local charities receive a portion of the profits.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: $30

Tom of Finland Vodka

Introducing Tom of Finland, aka Touko Laaksonen, a gay icon whose art revolutionized gay culture. His masculine, homoerotic creations adorn the standout vodka bottle. Crafted organically by Master Distiller Mika Mönkkönen at Finland's second oldest family distillery, Lignell & Piispanen, this vodka is distilled five times for smoothness, boasting subtle rye spice and no burn. Proceeds support the Tom of Finland Foundation, making each purchase meaningful. Legendary.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £25.05

RUM

Ninefold Pure Single Rum

This eye-catching Scotch Rum is produced at Ninefold’s distillery in Dumfries. Ninefold have really engaged with Pride this year, actively championing people through displaying how inclusive the drinks industry can be, donating to Equal Measures, enlisting queer bartenders as much as possible and sponsoring queer-led events. This rum itself is an unaged white, though they have a wide range of exceptional creations. It’s distilled from molasses and delivers a kiss of ginger spice, vanilla and lively citrus.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £34.44

WINE

Digby Fine English

Jason Humphries and Trevor Clough, inspired by a seventeenth-century alchemist named Sir Kenelm Digby and their experiences in Seattle wineries, launched Digby English Sparkling wines. Their bubbles consistently outshine Champagne in blind tastings, a testament to their dedication to excellence and diversity in the world of wine.

Size: Various
ABV: Various
Find here: From £28

Madame F Rosé

Madame F proudly collaborates with Queer Britain, sponsoring the Madame F Queer Britain art award since 2022. LGBTQ+ artist Justin Kemp’s winning artwork adorns every bottle. Inspired by the community, Madame F offers collections bursting with pride and passion. Their Rosé is refreshingly fresh, light, and juicy—a perfect tribute to their vibrant spirit. Give it a try!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £9.50

Gentleman Farmer 2021 Napa Valley Pride Red Wine

If you are visiting the U.S. then keep your eye open for Californian vintner duo Joe Wolosz and Jeff Durham, who specialise in creating rich and fruity Cabernet Sauvignon and delicious Chardonnays. They have created a premium limited edition 2021 blend of Napa Valley Pride Red Wine. This is an exciting blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with hints of mulberry, redcurrants and vanilla. 10% of sales from this goes to support LGTBQ+ youth organisations.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: $119

Barefoot Wines Pink Moscato

Since 1988, for over 30 years Barefoot Wines has been a proud supporter of many different LGBTQIA+ organisations and you can often find them at many Pride festivals, showing their long-term support for this community. They have a wonderful range of delicious wines to choose from depending on your preference. Perhaps you might opt for a rich Merlot, a lighter fresh Sauvignon Blanc or a sweeter Moscato like this, whichever you choose there is bound to be something you will enjoy. Great value too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £7.25

CANNED DRINKS

LUV JUS

Inspired by Tel Aviv Pride 2016, housemates George and Owen launched a line of healthy craft vodka pops. Recognized by the Great Taste awards, their vegan-friendly, gluten-free creations include flavours like pineapple-mint, blood orange-pomegranate vodka, and raspberry-cucumber gin. Though the truth is, there’s a lot more depth of flavour in each can than that suggests, with Korean ginseng also included in each flavour. Each drink is low-calorie with no added sugar, supporting LGBTQ+ charities with 5% of profits—a perfect choice for Pride Month… and beyond.

Size: 150ml
ABV: 4.6%-4.8%
Find here: 6 for £15

The Drinks Bureau Dirty Shirley and Non-Alc Shirley Temple

Serious, award-winning canned cocktails and mocktails. First, the 0% Shirley Temple, a cherry-flavoured drink with warm ginger, tang and bitter touches. Then it’s alter ego – Dirty Shirley which brings the same flavour profile as well as steely vodka and a little more lemon zing. Stylish and delicious. 10p from each can goes to Stonewall Housing to support LGBTQ+ people facing homelessness.

Size: 250ml
ABV: 5% / Non-Alcoholic
Find here: £15 Dirty Shirley / £12 Shirley Temple (for 4)

BEER

PROUD

PROUD LGBTQIPA, coined as the original Queer Beer by founders Ethan and Sören, blends elderflower and citrus in a refreshing IPA. Supporting Diversity Role Models, LGBT Foundation, and Terrence Higgins Trust, £2.40 from every case (20p per can) aids these charities. Joining their Loyal Hunny group offers 10% discounts and more perks, making PROUD a delightful choice year-round. Love it.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.1%
Find here: £28 for 12

Queer Brewing Project

This is a great queer and trans-owned brewery looking to increase representation for their community in the world of beer. Based in London, they have lots of pop-ups so check out their Instagram or website for the next one! They’ve got a load of really intriguing beers, including special collaborations with Queer Britain currently sold out at the time of writing. But we love the look of their Witbier – Flowers. As bright and beautiful as a special bouquet, it balances snappy hops with bold coriander seed and orange peel.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4%
Find here: £25.80 for 8

Athletic Brewing Ultimate Mixed Case Low-Alcohol

Athletic Brewing are based on both the east and west coasts of the US, with a huge, highly innovative brewing operation enabling unique flavour intensity in their low-alcohol beers. Focused on not just physical health but mental health too, they’ve got an extensive history with LGBTQI+ advocates, creating many specialist beers over their time. Their variety pack is a great way to start, featuring Run Wild IPA, Upside Dawn, Lage and All Out – an accessible range of refreshing golden ales, bold hops and rich roasted malts.

Size: 355ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £20.10 for 8

Portobello Brewery - Polari

Portabello have been independently crafting distinguished beers and ales in West London since 2012. Polari is one of their best selling at different venues, and it’s brewed to support Stonewall Housing, with 10p from every pint donated. If you didn’t know, Polari is a secret language, originally used by people in theatres and fairgrounds and adopted by gay people in the 20th century to skirt the UK’s strict anti-homosexuality laws!

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.2%
Find here: Various venues

Drop Bear Beer Co – Low Alcohol

Drop Bear stands proudly as the world’s inaugural alcohol-free brewery owned by an LGBT+ couple, Joelle and Sarah. The couple’s resolve was strengthened after a hate crime in 2022, reinforcing their commitment to combating discrimination and violence. Embracing their role as Galop Guardians since June 2022, Drop Bear Brewery champions inclusivity and community empowerment through their craft. This multi-pack of ‘near beers’ includes moreish New World Lager, unique Yuzu Pale Ale, tropical IPA and smoky Bonfire Stout. Taste for yourself to see what all the rave reviews are about!

Size: 330ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £11.99 for 4

COCKTAILS

Tom Savano Finnish Liberation Cosmopolitan

Tom Savano crafts artisanal small-batch cocktails using Fairtrade, organic ingredients. Their Cosmopolitan Pride mix, rooted in the 1980s Cleveland gay scene, features Tom of Finland Organic Vodka—a tribute to the iconic gay artist. Just chill and pour with pride! A delicious ready to pour bar-standard cocktail – voila!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £22

Want some ready to drink cocktails to celebrate more? Check out our favourites here!

The Father’s Day Gift Guide For Drinks Lovers

No Dad is the same of course, but if yours likes drinks, then we’re confident one of our suggestions will hit the mark. In case you needed reminding (hopefully not), Sunday 16th June is Father’s Day in the UK. If that’s shocked you then don’t worry!

We’ve found stand-out gifts that will show you’ve really thought about what would make this day special for them. Wine, cocktails, rum, gin, whisky, hampers, unique experiences and more, it’s all below. Every drink and every budget, so there’s no excuse to turn up with a last minute pack of socks and chocolates! Find the section that appeals to your Dad most below and hopefully one of the gifts will be perfect. And if not, well, you might be able to pick up something for yourself as a treat! Let’s dive into this year’s Father’s Day gift guide.

Best gifts for a dad who loves red wine

Mucho Mas Vino Tinto Wine

Every Dad is different of course, so it’s difficult to select one wine, but Mucho Mas’ Vino Tinto is a loveable offering without breaking the bank. Félix Solís are family owned near Madrid, despite the scale of their operation, and this easy-drinking ruby red is a surefire hit. The bright and juicy fruits (plums, figs, cherries and blackberries) swarm the palate delightfully, verging on a jammy profile. Amazing value. You could pair it up with steak for a delicious meal, or even plane tickets to Madrid!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7 (Clubcard Price)

Perez Cruz Liguai 2020

For something a little more luxury, try this Chilean blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere. Six months of French oak has created the buttery texture that fills the mouth with concentrated blackberries and blueberries rolled in chocolate. Complex depths continue with cracks of black pepper and dried tobacco and an almost meaty savoury note. It just feels so big and bold, you can guarantee it won’t be a forgettable gift.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £29.99

Penfolds Bin 389

Penfolds is one of Australia’s finest producers, a name synonymous with quality. Grange, now costing well over £500, is their most famous wine, but what we have here is ‘Baby Grange’, as it’s partly aged in the same barrels a year after Grange was in them. A very special blend, it’s as full-bodied as it gets and is often the red that opens one’s eyes to how rich and beautiful reds can truly be. Oaky pepper hits you out the gate, followed up with sumptuous blackberry and raspberry. The Shiraz lines the silky-smooth texture with gentle spice, whilst the Cabernet Sauvignon builds the rigid structure. A very special wine for a very special dad.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £65

Best gifts for a dad who loves white wine

The Ned Sauvignon Blanc

There’s a lot of hype around this Sauvignon, but we love it so we reckon Dad will too. It’s the Marlborough style from New Zealand, which is very in right now, and it’s one of the best of its kind in the supermarkets. It delivers enchanting freshness and dryness, with lime that zips around the palate, ripe tropical fruits and a kiss of minerality. Lemon, lime, guava, gooseberry – so well rounded and flavourful. Nom!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.99 (usually more!)

Bread & Butter Chardonnay

Unforgettable and stand-out – exactly what a wine gift should be. The name instantly intrigues and sets up hefty expectations, but it certainly delivers. Unmistakably it’s California Chard, lightly oaked and so, so big and buttery. The toasty richness is intense and delicious, but there’s also some subtler lemon meringue notes to mix things up. Serve with great greasy food for an indulgent meal.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £15.50

Vina Cobos Bramare Chardonnay Zingaretti Estate 2019

If you want to push the boat out with a unique Chardonnay, head to Mendoza, Argentina with Viña Cobos. It rests for a whole year in French oak, developing elegance with harmonious honeysuckle, jasmine and citrus. In the mouth it’s so soft, with a richness that’s balanced by minerality and cutting acidity. You even get a sense of the mountainous terroir with the herbal, minty note. So much going on, but so much poise.  

Size: 500ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £40

Best gifts for a dad who loves wine gear and gadgets

Coravin Timeless Three+ (Father’s Day promotion)

This wine preservation system allows you to preserve still wines for weeks, months or even years – because you don’t even need to pull the cork. If Dad is a regular wine drinker, then this is great a great gift as it will allow him to try lots of different styles without ever wasting a bottle. It’s state-of-the-art tech that involves a needle piercing the cork or the Coravin screw cap replacement – then you simply pour as normal. Argon gas replaces the lost wine to preserve it. It’s a fancy bit of kit but it is superb, there’s a 60 Day risk-free trial, a two-year warranty and free shipping. For Father’s Day especially, they’re throwing in a £99 Bordeaux wine tasting kit too! If you want to try before you buy, then from 1st-16th June, Coravin are teaming up with Gordon Ramsey Restaurants so you can see it in action at Lucky Cat, Savoy Grill, The River Restaurant, Restaurant 1890 and Pétrus.

Includes: Two Coravin Pure Argon Capsules, two Coravin Screw Caps and a Coravin Aerator
Find here: £279.99 including a free Bordeaux wine tasting kit worth £99

Best gifts for a dad who loves gin

Whitley Neill Distillers Cut

A pristine representation of the London Dry profile, it’s sweet, soft and citrus driven with dried orange peel coming through marvellously. Under £20 for a Double Gold winner at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023 is difficult to argue with too. The St. George shield makes it the perfect companion to pour from whilst watching England in the Euros!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £17.65

Penrhos Dry Gin

Penrhos is a well-established distillery based from a farm in green Herefordshire. The first thing your Dad will notice when opening this is the bottle. Well, you can tell him it’s sustainable, 100% recyclable aluminium that uses 90% less energy than glass – plus it’s totally unique which always makes for a good present. Inside, botanical bliss awaits blueberries, rose, cherry blossom and honey bring a floral and fruit bouquet to the spice of pink pepper and cardamom. Stunningly light award-winning gin.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £27.54

Mermaid Gin

Mermaid Gin is an amazing gin from the Isle of Wight distillery, and this is their original seaside wonder. Rock samphire and Boadicea hops bring a real sense of the place, which when backed up by familiar botanicals like coriander, angelica, lemon and liquorice, create earthy sweetness and citrus zing. It’s an absolutely beautiful bottle too – check out their pink gin and the zest version also!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £35.99

Best gifts for a dad who loves whisky

Elijah Craig

Exceptional value. Elijah Craig were the first of their kind to char the barrels used in their Bourbon, pioneered by Reverend Elijah Craig on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in Kentucky. Local corn and grains are milled and mixed with limestone-rich local spring water before small-batch fermentation and distillation. A serial award winner, its woody vanilla and spiced caramel are accessible but elegant, leaving a long, toasted finish. A great introduction to top end Bourbon.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £32 (Clubcard Price)

Rampur Double Cask Single Malt Whisky

What about an Indian whisky for an inquisitive whisky loving Dad? This Indian Single Malt is matured mostly in American oak ex-bourbon and European oak ex-sherry so you get kisses of sherry spice intertwining with earthy vanilla and baking spice. It’s so silky smooth and well-balanced that it would be difficult not to love, so see what Dad thinks!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 45%
Find here: £57.84

Dadvent 12 Dram Whisky Collection

This boozy advent from Drinks by the Dram is often in our Christmas recommendations but why not now with the ‘Dadvent’ reinvention? With 12 different 30ml wax-sealed samples, it’s a great way to try loads of different whiskies without buying the full bottle. It’s an expertly curated selection of different styles from producers such as Loch Lomond, Hatozaki and Rock Island, and adds a touch of excitement every day after his special day.

Size: 30ml x 12
ABV: 44.5%
Find here: £37.99 (usually more!)

Best gifts for a dad who loves tequila

Cazcabel Añejo

Made in Jalisco, Cazcabel deliver a super reliable tequila portfolio. Their Añejo rests in ex-Tennessee whiskey barrels for 14 months which imparts sweet oak, merging beautifully with the complex charred agave already present. Every sip feels exciting.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38.12

Pancho Datos Reposado Tequila

Panchos Datos pays homage to the poet of the Mexican Revolution, Ricardo Grijalva de León, which only adds to the classy theme and design of the bottle. Six months of ex-bourbon white oak certainly leave their mark with what you’d expect – exquisite vanilla and caramel coating the earthy agave spice in accessible sweetness. Not for shotting(!), this is a tequila to be slowly enjoyed.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £61.95

Best gifts for a dad who loves vodka

Broken Clock Vodka

This award-winning English vodka is perfect if you’ve got one of those Dads with an opinion on everything because you can throw in an ‘even a broken clock is right twice a day’ joke. Everything about this spirit is English, from the oldest distillery in Cheshire where it’s made to the old Georgian recipes inspiring it – think russet apples and garden botanicals. The result is a perfumed nose and rich palate that’s so instantly characterful it’s a joy.

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

Dima's Vodka - Ukrainian Three-Grain

This has been on our radar since winning gold at the IWSC awards, and of course increasingly so since the war in Ukraine. In fact, owner Dima Deinega has done some incredible work raising funds for the effort. The liquid itself is from a 125-year-old Kyiv distillery and uses barley, rye and wheat, which is unusual. These, combined with the country’s well known dark supersoil leaves a seductively velvety smooth texture. Slightly nutty, biscuity and earthy, the viscosity here is worlds apart from horrible throat burning vodkas.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £30.72

Best gifts for a dad who loves rum

Appleton Estate 8-Year-Old Reserve Rum

Well, Appleton gave themselves this glorious present for their 250th birthday, so how about you give it to your Dad for Father’s Day? It’s Jamaican rum, aged for 8 years giving all the time in the world for those warm spices, toffee and honey notes to meld together and become an award darling. Worth every penny.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £28.95 (usually more!)

Étän Rum

This golden rum brand is the brainchild of five Cameroonian sisters, hence the stencil of West Africa on the beautiful bottle. The spices used here (fevergrass, orange peel, cassia, ginger and vanilla) make for a unique concoction focusing on natural sweetness and spice. Low calorie, super smooth and immersive it is sure to make dad’s day.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £41

Best gifts for a dad who loves cocktails

Angels Dare Gift Box

A complete UK operation, Angels Dare’s four canned cocktails are perfect examples of how far ready-to-drink cocktails have come. The box itself is a beautiful design that screams gift. First up, Dad will see Secret Orchard, a fizzy, floral and fruity gin number. Next, Maverick Martini, a heady combo of tropical zing, vanilla and vodka for a punchy sweet-but-tart expression. Cheeky Wee Kiss is next, a gin cocktail with fiery rhubarb and warm ginger alongside strawberries and cranberries. Last but not least, La Bonnie Vita, a gently carbonated mocktail using Scottish raspberries, Sicilian Lemon and blood orange. They’re all really well made and refreshing, perfect for summer and perfect for dad.

Size: 250ml x 4
ABV: 8% plus a non-alcoholic mocktail
Find here: £25

Whisky Smoker Kit

If your Dad is interested in impressing you with theatrical cocktails, then you’ve got to take a look at this. Included in this mixology enhancing box is the wooden unit itself, a refillable torch, cleansing brush and four different wood chips to enhance your whisky with natural wood smoke. The kit is double-sided and accommodates glasses up to 10cm in diameter, so it could be used for cocktails too. If Dad has gotten into cocktail making, then he’ll surely love elevating the sensory experience with mesmerising smoke.

Find here: £30

Best gifts for a dad who loves cream liqueur

Somrus Coffee Cream

Now that’s an eye-catching bottle for Father’s Day. Inspired by South Indian Kaapi, it’s a silky medley of creamy roasted Arabica coffee, real Wisconsin dairy cream and handcrafted five-times distilled rum. 1% of the profit goes towards charitable causes too. With a sweeter coffee cream, it’s all about balance, and here it’s perfect – hence the prestigious awards.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £17.69

Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur

Who wouldn’t like to open this vintage styled Irish Cream? It’s made in County Cork with fresh cream, triple distilled Irish whiskey and everything has a very fresh feel. The ingredients all come from the five farms the family owns, hence the name, so it’s very much a local creation. Expect sweet kisses of condensed milk, luxurious coffee and creamy vanilla.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: £27.50

Godiva Chocolate Cream

Godiva was founded in the world capital of premium chocolate – Belgium. Building on their renowned expertise in chocolate, they decided to make a liqueur. You get a real sense of pure velvety dark chocolate here, with less sweetness than most. It’s as close to liquid chocolate as you can get in a liqueur, and yes, that is as delicious as it sounds.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £34.99

Drinks Hampers Perfect for Father’s Day

The Hawkstone Luxury Beer Hamper

Is Dad a fan of Clarkson’s Farm? Well how about treating dad to a hamper centred around Hawkstone, the beer from the show. Far from being a celebrity-fronted gimmick, the Hawkstone beers are raved about and rightly so. This hamper includes four different styles, as well as a generous selection of savoury snacks like premium cheese infused with truffle and olives.

ABV: Various
Find here: £45

The Craft Gin Club Tasting Hamper

There are more gins out there now than there have ever been, so who better to curate a must-try selection than The Craft Gin Club, the UK’s biggest gin loving club. Four stunning gins can be found in each hamper, each different from the last along with Franklin and Sons premium Indian tonic. That’s not all though as to complete his G&T experience, dad will be able to enjoy premium savoury snacks like truffle crisps and sunshine olives. It’s a really nicely presented hamper that any gin loving Dad will appreciate.

ABV: Various
Find here: £45

The Best Online Drinks Courses For Dad

WSET Course

This is a curveball that you won’t find in many gift guides, but if your Dad is super interested in his favourite drink, be that spirits, wines, beer or even sake, then WSET run courses on them to learn more eventually leading to a qualification. The courses we’ve linked below are beginner Level 1 courses to introduce you to that area of the industry but if dad needs more of a challenge then Level 2 and Level 3 are just as good a gift. It’s a fascinating and worthwhile journey on its own, but perhaps it could be a new project for a retired Dad, or the beginnings of a new career? There are no entry requirements, you just need a passion to learn. Click each link below to find out more.

Course: Spirits / Beer / Wine / Sake
Cost: £210-£250

Best gifts for a dad who doesn’t drink

Drydrinkers Father’s Day Gift Box

Non-alcoholic beers are still a relatively new area of the drinks industry and getting better all the time. If your Dad doesn’t drink, then a gift box like this is the ideal way to find his favourite No-Lo beer. From lagers to stouts to IPAs and exclusive brews, this special Father’s Day box has been expertly curated to fully explore this thriving scene and what a treat each can is. Click the link below for the full descriptions of the beers included!

Includes: 24 different beers, a Drydrinker beer glass worth £5.99 and a Divine chocolatier treat.
ABV: 0-0.5%
Find here: £79.95

If you’re after a drinks themed event to take your Dad out for Father’s Day and live in London, then how about this celebration and feast of London’s Urban Wine scene at Renegade? Raffles, winemakers, premium food, our very own Aidy Smith hosting and of course, tonnes of beautiful British wines.

What’s The Difference Between Tonic Water and Soda?

Tonic, Club Soda, Soda, Seltzer, and Sparkling Water – there are a few different terms both in the UK and across the pond to describe what is essentially fizzy water. But are they all just that – fizzy water?  Well, yes and no.

Most of the time, sparkling water, soda, seltzer, and club soda are now essentially the same thing. Sparkling water is more of a British term, whereas the other two are more American. Club Soda is more of a brand-focused term, seltzer is from Germany and soda is the generic name for what we could call sparkling water in the UK – but as you’ll probably know, it’s mostly used interchangeably these days.

Of course, there are some differences. Different water, production and brands vary in terms of minerality and bubbles. Not only that, but club soda tends to have more minerality added rather than naturally occurring. Seltzer, however, is less minerally so more like plain water that has been carbonated. But give or take, they’re generally the same; carbonated water with varying levels of minerals in them.

Tonic, on the other hand, is notably different from soda. So, if you’ve ever been curious as to the difference or in wondering what difference they will make to your drink, then keep reading!

The Difference Between Tonic Water and Soda

Fundamentally, tonic water has a more bitter flavour than soda or sparkling water. Whilst soda has carbonation and minerals, tonic water usually has quinine added, as well as sugar/sweetener and sometimes other botanicals and flavours.

Tonic has a medicinal history. When colonising, British people looked for measures to protect themselves against malaria in much of India and Africa. Using knowledge discovered by indigenous South American communities, they started to include cinchona tree bark for its alkaloid, ‘quinine’ which helps to prevent malaria spreading.

The difficult-to-consume bitter taste began to be tempered with sugars and flavours, and then carbonated by businessmen like Erasmus Bond and companies like Schweppes. This, paired with gin, became an iconic British serve.

There isn’t as much quinine in modern tonic water as there used to be to make it more palatable and less medicinal, balanced out by ingredients like corn syrup and cane sugar.

Soda has none of this – it’s far more neutral tasting. That’s not to say that tonic water is intensely flavoured, but it certainly brings more to the flavour table than soda does.

What Are The Different Flavours of Tonic Water?

Once upon a time it was only original, or Indian tonic water available to drinkers. Of course, now, like any drinks product, customisations and spin offs are everywhere. The truth is brands like Franklin & Sons have been innovating in this space so the selection of flavours is now incredible. We went through a couple here, such as Sicilian Lemon and Rosemary & Black Olive.

The original Indian tonic (mostly with just quinine) is still the most popular, mostly as the T of G&T, but there are some other increasingly popular flavoured tonics. Lemon, Mediterranean and Elderflower for example.

Even within Indian tonic water, the subtleties from brand-to-brand change. You can find light options (with less sugar), citrus-led options, more/less bitter options – pretty much anything.

What Are The Different Flavours of Soda Water?

Original, plain soda, as discussed, is carbonated water with varying levels of minerals like salt. But there are many flavoured sodas out there too. Franklin & Sons for example, produce Guava & Lime, Pineapple & Almond, Mandarin & Ginger, and Pink Grapefruit. If you can imagine it, it probably exists.

Where you have to be slightly careful is that ‘soda’ is sometimes used to refer to fizzy pop style drinks in general. It should be quite clear from the packaging, but just make sure you don’t pick up a super sweet fizzy drink instead of a soda water style drink… unless you want it of course.

Should You Drink Tonic or Soda Water?

Surprise, surprise, this all comes down to personal preference. Both drinks have similar benefits which is that they let the spirit alongside them shine. If you’re fed up with super sweet fizzy drinks or intense juices dominating your serves, then both soda and tonic can dilute the mix and let the existing ingredients shine.

Take gin for example. If your gin is very complex and flavourful, then a simple soda, or flavoured soda to complement, might be perfect. However, if it’s a sweet gin, maybe some bitter tonic will balance things out. A Mediterranean tonic with herby citrus tang is brilliant with gins of the same nature, whereas an Elderflower tonic can really bring a floral gin to life.

There’s no one rule fits all policy when it comes to soda or tonic – it depends on the flavours you want, the flavours of your tonic/soda, and the drink you’re combining it with.

If you’re looking for more ideas to mix with gin, then find our suggestions here. Alternatively, we have some tonic recommendations here, from our favourite supermarket own-brand tonic to premium fizz. Experiment and mix tonics and sodas in all their flavours with your favourite drinks – they’re subtle, but they make a big difference.