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These are the best food and drink advent calendars (aff)

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/04 .. he-best-food-and-drink-advent-calendars-aff.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, October 4th 2025 at 13:19 GMT by The Scotsman
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The Scotsman’s Guide to the Best Food‑and‑Drink Advent Calendars

When the chill of December rolls in, the idea of a daily treat that builds anticipation for Christmas is almost irresistible. In their most recent “Recommended” feature, The Scotsman turns the spotlight on a growing trend that marries the holiday’s countdown with culinary indulgence: the advent calendar for food and drink. The piece is a practical, consumer‑friendly guide that helps readers pick the right calendar for their tastes, budgets, and lifestyle, and offers a handy round‑up of where to purchase the top picks.

Why a Food‑and‑Drink Advent Calendar?

The article begins by explaining the appeal of the advent calendar concept beyond its original chocolate‑filled incarnation. The idea of a 24‑day countdown filled with mini‑souvenirs – from single‑sip wines and craft beers to small bundles of artisan cheeses, specialty coffees, and even edible gift boxes – has become a favourite among those who enjoy celebrating the season with a touch of indulgence each day. The Scotsman stresses that these calendars provide a “daily reminder of the holiday spirit” while also introducing shoppers to new flavours and products they might not otherwise try.

How the Selection Was Made

To compile the list, the writers sifted through thousands of options available on the UK market and consulted a variety of reviewers. They looked for calendars that struck a balance between quality, variety, and value. The criteria included:

• Product diversity – How many different categories are represented (wine, beer, cheese, chocolate, etc.)?
• Price‑per‑item ratio – Are the contents well‑worth the price?
• Packaging and design – Is the calendar user‑friendly and visually appealing?
• Special features – Do the calendars come with extras such as tasting notes, recipe suggestions, or a small gift card?

All of the calendars that made the shortlist received a thorough, honest review in the article, giving readers clear, detailed insights.

The Top Picks

1. The “Wine‑and‑Cheese” Advent Calendar

Targeted at those who appreciate a sophisticated pairing, this calendar offers a 24‑day sequence of small‑sized, single‑serving wine bottles matched with artisan cheeses and crackers. Each day comes with a flavour profile and a suggested pairing, making it an excellent choice for casual wine lovers or people who want to explore new varieties without committing to a full bottle.

2. The “Craft Beer” Advent Calendar

For the beer aficionado, the guide highlights a calendar that includes 24 mini‑packs of craft beers from boutique breweries across the UK. The selection is curated to feature a mix of lagers, IPAs, stouts, and seasonal specials. Each mini‑pack comes with a description of the brew’s style, origin, and a suggested food pairing.

3. The “Chocolate & Coffee” Combo

A standout for those who love a sweet and caffeinated treat, this calendar bundles an assortment of artisanal chocolates with a selection of premium single‑origin coffee beans. The packaging offers an opportunity to discover new chocolate flavours and coffee blends, while a small tasting guide provides background on the origins and flavor notes.

4. The “Spice & Tea” Calendar

This niche calendar brings together a range of hand‑picked spices, small jars of exotic teas, and a handful of recipe cards that showcase how to use the items in everyday cooking. It’s ideal for home chefs and people who enjoy experimenting with flavour.

5. The “Breakfast Treats” Advent Calendar

Perfect for the morning routine, this calendar includes a variety of premium breakfast items: artisan breadsticks, oat‑based biscuits, chocolate‑filled pastries, and a small packet of gourmet hot cocoa mix. The article praises the calendar’s balanced mix of sweet and savory items.

Budget‑Friendly Options

While the feature focuses largely on premium selections, the article doesn’t neglect affordability. It lists a few more budget‑friendly calendars that still offer good variety and quality. These include:

• A 24‑day chocolate calendar that features classic, mid‑price chocolates from a well‑known brand.
• A simple, yet well‑packaged, beer calendar from a popular online retailer that includes 24 mini‑packs from a handful of microbreweries.

The writers advise readers to check whether the selected calendar ships early enough to arrive before Christmas and whether it is available for delivery across the UK.

Where to Buy

All of the highlighted calendars are linked to their official product pages or to reputable online retailers. The Scotsman ensures that readers can purchase directly from the source or through well‑trusted third‑party sites. Each link opens with a short description, price, and shipping details, which are all provided by the original sellers. The article also mentions that some calendars can be found in local specialty shops or high‑end supermarkets during the holiday season.

Tips for the Perfect Countdown

Beyond the reviews, the guide includes a section of handy tips:

• Plan the Calendar – If you’re buying for someone else, consider their taste profile and dietary preferences.
• Store Properly – Keep the calendar in a cool, dry place to preserve the quality of wines, teas, and spices.
• Make It a Group Activity – If you’re hosting a holiday party, consider using one of the calendars as a central theme and encourage guests to share their favourite daily item.

Final Verdict

The Scotsman’s advent‑calendar roundup is an excellent resource for anyone looking to add a bit of extra sparkle to the holiday countdown. By categorising the calendars by type and providing clear, unbiased reviews, the article helps readers make informed choices. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine wines, a craft‑beer enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or simply looking for a thoughtful gift, there’s a calendar in the feature that will fit the bill.

With its straightforward recommendations, practical buying advice, and user‑friendly layout, the article is a go‑to reference for the Christmas season. It captures the essence of the advent calendar – daily excitement, exploration of new flavours, and the simple joy of a small, thoughtful surprise – and does so with the professionalism and depth that The Scotsman is known for.