Christmas Gifting for Foodies: My Top Picks for the Holiday Season – With Christmas just around the corner, I can’t resist diving into the festive magic of choosing thoughtful foodie gifts. Whether your loved ones are dedicated gourmands, adventurous sippers, or unapologetic snack enthusiasts, Women Talking has found some fabulous options that’ll make their holidays extra special.
Marks & Spencer’s Festive Food and Drink
There’s something so comforting about Marks & Spencer at Christmas—it’s a tradition in itself! I’m obsessed with their party food range, especially the mini Beef Wellington (absolute showstoppers) and the cutest Pigs in Blankets. And don’t get me started on their desserts—the yule log is an indulgent dream, and their classic Christmas pudding brings that nostalgic festive flair to the table.
For gifting, their hampers are always a winner. They come beautifully packaged and bursting with goodies—perfect for sharing the magic of the season.
Asda’s Festive Drink Selection
Asda has really upped its game this year with an impressive array of festive drinks. Whether you’re after alcohol-free options, classic wines, or indulgent cocktails, they’ve got something for every celebration.
Their Extra Special Mulled Wine is a must-have for cold evenings, while their sparkling Prosecco Rosé is perfect for toasting special moments. For something non-alcoholic, the Ginger Ale & Spiced Orange is a personal favourite—it’s refreshing, festive, and pairs wonderfully with snacks.
Asda’s drink range is not only affordable but also packed with crowd-pleasing options for any holiday gathering.
Bemuse: Non-Alcoholic Honey Wines
Bemuse has stolen my heart as a thoughtful choice for the health-conscious or those looking for sophisticated non-alcoholic options. Their sparkling honey wines are beautifully light, with unique flavours like Tarragon & Basil or Ginger & Cardamom (my personal favourite!).
Not only are these drinks low in sugar and calories, but they’re also environmentally conscious—certified B-Corp, no less! They’re ideal for festive gatherings or as a creative gift for someone trying out alcohol-free living.
Hampers.com Christmas Collection
Nothing says “I care” like a thoughtful hamper, and Hampers.com has nailed it this year. Their Festive Afternoon Tea Hamper is a standout for me—think luxurious chocolate truffles, Italian amaretti biscuits, and tea for cosy afternoons.
For a classic touch, the Winter Wonders Christmas Gift Basket is packed with rich, indulgent staples like mince pies and Christmas cake. It’s the perfect way to spread holiday cheer to loved ones near and far.
CleanCo’s Alcohol-Free Spirits
For those who enjoy a good cocktail but want to skip the booze, CleanCo is a revelation. I’ve been loving their Clean G Rhubarb that is made to be mixed just as you would a classic fruity Gin —it’s tart, refreshing, and perfect for festive mocktails.
Their Clean T (Tequila) is another favourite, especially for margarita enthusiasts. These make fantastic gifts for anyone exploring alcohol-free alternatives or simply wanting to mix up their drink menu this season.
Stockley’s Traditional Sweets
Who doesn’t love a bit of nostalgia during the holidays? Stockley’s sweets instantly take me back to childhood Christmases. Their classic confections, like humbugs and fruit drops, make such a charming stocking filler. It’s the little things that often bring the biggest smiles!
A Victory for Cheese Lovers: Long Clawson Dairy’s Blue Stilton
Finally, no foodie Christmas is complete without cheese, and Long Clawson Dairy’s 1912 Artisan Blue Stilton is pure magic. Recently crowned Supreme Champion, this Stilton is creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible.
Stilton has long been a festive table centrepiece, but this one’s a true star. Pair it with a good port and some spiced chutney for an unbeatable festive combo. Try this impressive combination.
1912 Cheeseboard Wreath
6 thyme on the twig
100g radishes, quartered lengthways 200g mix of red and green grapes
60g pecans
100g olives
50g blackberries
400g of mixed meats, salami, prosciutto Small handful of rosemary sprigs
2 x 1912 cheese, lightly crumbled Selection of cheese biscuits
Arrange the thyme in a largish circle to use as your template.
Pinch and make the charcuterie meat into a roselike shape and dot around the wreath roughly in 4/5 places.
Next get your 1912 and pull off into chunks and place next to the meats.
Pick little groups of grapes on the vine on top or next to the meat and 1912, again in a cluster of 4/5 around the wreath.
Lay the radish quarters in clusters around the wreath in roughly 4/5 places. Same again with the olives, blackberries and pecans. Finish with another 1912 in clumps around the wreath.
Add any cheese biscuits, chutney of your choosing.
This festive season, I’ll be indulging in these foodie delights while sharing a few with friends and family. Let’s make this Christmas deliciously memorable!
Poppy Watt