While Christmas pudding and mulled wine are festive favourites, there’s a growing trend for adventurous drinkers to embark on a spirited journey in the lead up to December 25th. The Vodka Advent Calendar by The Spirit Co has emerged as a popular option for those seeking to explore the world of vodka, one tantalizing dram at a time.
But what exactly makes this calendar stand out from the growing crowd?
The vodka lovers in the Christmas.co.uk team discover why this advent calendar might be THE choice for vodka fans.
Unveiling a world of flavours
There has been a surge in interest for vodka advent calendars in recent years – it’s why there are growing numbers of them to choose from. One of the most popular is The Spirit Co’s offering. This can be attributed to several factors:
Diversity: A key element to the calendar’s popularity is its promise of variety. Advent calendars can sometimes feature a repetitive selection, but The Spirit Co boasts a curated selection of vodkas, encompassing a spectrum of styles and origins. Including plain vodka which the most common type and is typically made from grains like wheat, rye or potatoes. There’s also flavoured vodka which is made by adding natural or artificial flavours to plain vodka. These flavours include vanilla, citrus, fruit and spice. From established brands to boutique producers, each day unveils a new flavour profile to pique your curiosity
- Global exploration: Beyond brand recognition, the calendar takes you on a geographical adventure. Vodka production is a global phenomenon, and The Spirit Co incorporates vodkas from across the world, including Russia, France, Belgium and the UK. This broadens your palate and appreciation for the versatility of this spirit
- Value for money: Compared to purchasing individual bottles, particularly for lesser-known brands, the calendar offers a cost-effective way to sample a wide range of vodkas. Advent calendars often come with special offers or discounts, adding to the appeal.
The spirit of the season
Beyond the practicalities, there’s a certain charm to the advent calendar experience.
The daily ritual of opening a new door adds a touch of anticipation and excitement to the countdown to Christmas.
We think it’s a delightful way to discover new favourites or revisit familiar brands.
Enhancing your vodka advent calendar experience
Once opened, this advent calendar offers a variety of vodkas and – for some of them – you could use these tips to elevate your enjoyment of The Spirit Co Vodka Advent Calendar:
Food pairings: Experiment with food pairings to discover how different elements complement each other. For instance, a crisp potato blini – a type of small Russian pancake – might enhance a vodka with subtle citrus notes, while smoked salmon could pair well with a peppery vodka
Share the experience: The festivities are about connection. Gather with friends or family and transform your tasting into a social event. Discuss your tasting notes and compare preferences
- Storage tips: Vodka is best enjoyed chilled, so keep your calendar refrigerated, especially after opening the first few bottles.
A glimpse inside the calendar
There’s a lot to recommend this vodka advent calendar and for lovers of this spirit, it’s an entertaining journey! While some are great to enjoy neat, others work well with food or mixers. Our favourite tastes include:
Stolichnaya Gold: A quality offering – this is a premium vodka infused with hints of honey and vanilla. Its smooth and velvety texture makes it perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. Pair with grilled salmon with a honey-mustard glaze
- Jaffa Cake Vodka: Sounds like a crazy mix-up but we loved the playful and nostalgic vodka infused with the iconic flavours of Jaffa Cakes. Expect a sweet and tangy combination of orange and chocolate. Consider pairing with a classic lemon tart or a chocolate brownie
- Reyka Vodka: A clean and refreshing Icelandic vodka, distilled with glacial water. Its subtle botanical notes provide a delicate complexity. Good with fresh seafood, like oysters or grilled scallops
- Black Cow Pure Milk Vodka: Hear us out first! Sounds like a mad creation that shouldn’t work but this world’s first vodka is made from British milk. We loved the creamy texture and subtle sweetness which help make it a versatile spirit. Try it with a creamy pasta dish or a rich cheese platter
- Ciroc Red Berry: A vibrant vodka infused with red berries, offering a burst of sweet and tart flavours we think it works with a light and fruity dessert, like a berry tart or a sorbet.
Beyond The Spirit Co
If The Spirit Co Vodka Advent Calendar strikes your fancy, you might also consider these alternatives:
- Master of Malt Vodka Advent Calendar: Another well-regarded option, featuring a curated selection from the Master of Malt
- Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar: An extensive selection with 24 unique 30ml samples.
You should also read our review of the Vodka Advent Calendar 2024.
The Spirit Co Vodka Advent Calendar 2024
Ultimately, the best vodka advent calendar depends on your individual preferences and budget.
We found that the 2024 Spirit Co Vodka Advent Calendar offering stands out for its curated selection, global exploration and festive cheer.
That makes it a tempting option for discerning UK drinkers seeking to expand their vodka horizons in the lead up to Christmas.
