Spirit advent calendars have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a festive and exciting way to count down to Christmas while indulging in a variety of delicious spirits.
These types of alcohol advent calendars typically include a selection of small bottles of different spirits, allowing you to discover new flavours and enjoy a unique festive experience.
Here, the Christmas.co.uk team covers:
Whisky advent calendars
Gin advent calendars
Rum advent calendars
- Vodka advent calendars
- Mixed spirit advent calendars.
Popular spirit advent calendars
Whisky
Some of the most popular whisky brands featured in advent calendar collections include:
- Glenfiddich
- Johnnie Walker
- Lagavulin
- The Macallan.
While some popular whisky names are available as an advent calendar, most calendars are a collection of small tasting bottles to help celebrate the Christmas countdown.
However, we think it’s worth searching out advent calendars that include niche whisky distilleries such as Daftmill Distillery which is known for its focus on traditional methods and The English Whisky Company which is pioneering whisky production in England.
Gin
Gin is another popular spirit featured in advent calendars. Some of the most popular brands include:
- Bombay Sapphire
- Hendrick’s
- Tanqueray
- Henley.
These gins offer a variety of flavours, from classic juniper-forward to floral or citrus-infused.
Some collections also offer craft gins with unusual tastes that are worth searching out.
Also, like whisky above, we think it’s worth trying gins in those advent calendars that have from the likes of Sipsmith which distils high-quality, handcrafted gins, The Botanist on the Isle of Islay and Edinburgh Gin which offers a variety of gins and seasonal offerings.
Rum
Rum advent calendars often feature a selection of rums from different regions, such as Jamaica, Barbados and Cuba. Popular brands include:
- Mount Gay
- Appleton
- Havana Club
- Bacardi.
Like gin and whisky advent calendars, if you are a fan of rum and have fancied trying other brands and flavours, then these calendars are a great way to do that.
Again, we think it’s worth looking for advent calendars with niche producers of rum such as the English Spirit Distillery, The Rum Works and The Isle of Wight Distillery.
Vodka
Vodka advent calendars typically feature a variety of flavoured vodkas, such as vanilla, raspberry, or coconut. Popular brands include:
- Absolut
- Tito’s
- Ketel One
- Grey Goose.
The range of flavoured vodkas is very impressive. Are you willing to try English Rhubarb or Chilli Bacon vodka? Then be prepared for some of the vodka advent calendars that are available.
There are some exciting small producers of vodka around and it’s worth searching out advent calendars that offer produce from the likes of Chase Vodka which uses locally grown potatoes, Arbikie Highland Vodka which uses wheat and barley, and The English Vodka Company.
Mixed spirits
Some advent calendars offer a mix of different spirits, including whisky, gin, rum, vodka and more.
This is a great option for those who enjoy variety and want to explore a wider range of flavours.
It’s also a great and cost-effective way to learn about spirits and find one that you will like.
Why buy a spirit advent calendar?
- Discover new flavours: Spirit advent calendars offer a great way to discover new and exciting spirits that you may not have tried before
- Support local distilleries: Many advent calendars feature spirits from local or independent distilleries, helping to support the craft spirits industry
- Share with friends and family: Advent calendars can be a fun and festive way to share the joy of spirits with loved ones
- Learn about different spirits: These calendars can help you learn about the history and production of different spirits
- Add a festive touch to the festive season: A spirit advent calendar can add a unique and exciting element to the festivities.
What to consider when buying a spirit advent calendar
- Budget: Spirit advent calendars can vary in price, depending on the brands included and the number of bottles
- Personal preferences: Consider your favourite types of spirits and any dietary restrictions or allergies
- Quality: Look for calendars that feature high-quality spirits from reputable distilleries
- Sustainability: Some advent calendars are made with eco-friendly packaging and support sustainable practices.
What food to pair with spirits?
While the issue of pairing food with spirits isn’t quite the same issue as pairing food with beer and wine, it’s still worth asking.
- Whisky: Pair whisky with rich and hearty foods, such as steak, roasted meats or cheese
- Gin: Gin pairs well with seafood, salads, or citrus-based dishes
- Rum: Rum goes well with tropical fruits, desserts or spicy foods
- Vodka: Vodka is a versatile spirit that can be paired with a variety of foods, from savoury dishes to sweet cocktails.
Where to buy spirit advent calendars in the UK
This is a growing market, and more distilleries and retailers are offering spirit advent calendars every year.
Online spirit advent calendar retailers
- Amazon: One of the largest online retailers, Amazon offers a wide variety of spirit advent calendars from popular brands and smaller distilleries
- Master of Malt: A specialist retailer focused on whisky and other spirits, Master of Malt often offers a selection of spirit advent calendars
- The Whisky Exchange: Another popular online retailer for whisky enthusiasts, The Whisky Exchange may also have spirit advent calendars available
- Virgin Wines: While primarily known for wine, Virgin Wines also offers spirit advent calendars
- Laithwaites: Another wine retailer that offers spirit advent calendars, including whisky and rum
Department stores selling spirit advent calendars
- John Lewis: A popular department store chain in the UK, John Lewis stocks a range of spirit advent calendars, including both popular brands and more niche options
- Harvey Nichols: A high-end department store, Harvey Nichols offer luxury spirit advent calendars with premium brands
- Fortnum & Mason: Known for its luxury goods, Fortnum & Mason has exclusive and high-end spirit advent calendars available.
Specialty spirit stores
- The Whisky Shop: A chain of speciality stores focused on whisky; The Whisky Shop offers whisky-focused advent calendars.
- The Gin to my Tonic: A great retailer with a 12-day gin advent calendar in its online shop
- The Rum Company: A specialist retailer for rum, there’s an advent calendar for rum fans, plus taster sets.
Spirit advent calendars
A spirit advent calendar is a fantastic way to add a festive touch to the festive season while discovering new and exciting spirits.
Whether you’re a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of spirits, a calendar can be a fun and enjoyable experience.
By considering your budget, personal preferences and the quality of the spirits included, you can choose the perfect advent calendar to make your Christmas countdown even more memorable.
Read the advent calendar reviews that we link to on the Christmas.co.uk site for more details.
Also, while spirit advent calendars – whether they are whisky, gin, rum or vodka – make for a great present for a loved one, they are also a great opportunity to learn more about brands and enjoy new tastes for yourself! Consider it an early Christmas present from Santa….
