{"id":2857,"date":"2019-11-27T13:41:56","date_gmt":"2019-11-27T13:41:56","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/?p=2857"},"modified":"2019-12-05T19:24:28","modified_gmt":"2019-12-05T19:24:28","slug":"some-festive-advice-from-julie","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/2019\/11\/27\/some-festive-advice-from-julie\/","title":{"rendered":"Some festive advice from &#8220;Sparkles&#8221;"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Last Posting Dates in\nthe UK with the Royal Mail<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Second Class &#8211; Wednesday 18 December<\/li><li>First Class &#8211; Friday 20 December<\/li><li>Special delivery guaranteed \u2013 Monday 23 December<\/li><li>International Airmail \u2013 check out the web page<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.postoffice.co.uk\/last-posting-dates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">https:\/\/www.postoffice.co.uk\/last-posting-dates<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Turn it up!\n\u2013 Spotify <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For you Christmas music lovers \u2013 Listen to Spotify channel \u2013 Christmas Jazz at the Coffee Shop \u2013 Lush, warm, cosy \u2013 No singing and No Slade.   Some of you might call it Muzak \u2013 fit for only department stores \u2013 but Sparkle dares you to give tunes and jazz a chance.   Also recommend Christmas Jazz \u2013 perfect for entertaining, sitting and chilling, wrapping presents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Happy\nPlanet Christmas <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Reducing\nwaste at Christmas <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From next year John Lewis\nand Waitrose are removing the plastic toys from their crackers. Aldi will be\nselling re-usable bags for fruit and veg starting the end of this month in the\nNorth of England, Midlands and Scotland \u2013 at 25p each and made from recycled\nplastic bottles. If the initiative is successful it could be rolled out to\nAldi\u2019s 840 stores. The supermarket says that if introduced nationally, the\ninitiative will remove the equivalent of 113 tonnes of single-use plastic from\ncirculation each year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Of course, shoppers who\ndon&#8217;t want to pay for the new bag or use a free plastic bag can instead bring\ntheir own bags or Tupperware containers for free. The supermarket adds that it\nis on track to have all own-label packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable\nby 2022.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>FOOD<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Guide to the Best Mince\nPies<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good Housekeeping have just revealed the Best Mince Pies Tasting Test for 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The winner scoring 90\/100 was &#8221; <em>Baking Agent Mini Mince Pies<\/em> &#8220;.  Rich Buttery pastry with a delicious vanilla flavour. Bite sized and bake at home &#8211; <em>ooo yes please<\/em>.  Ocado \u00a33.79 for 12.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Runner up is a <em>Costa Coffee All Butter Mince Pie <\/em>82\/100 \u00a32.10 each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Third in the contest Morrisons \u2013 <em>The Best all Butter Mince Pies <\/em>80\/100.  Star topped snowy lids reveal a packed filling of fruits with ginger and cinnamon, the orange and lemon peel add a perfect citric punch.  \u00a32 for 6. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aldi Specially Selected Mince Pies came in a number 4 with 78\/100.  A snowflake topped pie with a dusting of icing sugar. Spiced with cinnamon, orange peel and plump sweet vine fruit giving a lovely rounded flavour. Taters liked the biscuity tasting pastry.  \u00a31.35 for 6. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>M&amp;S Collection Mince Pies <\/em>were 5th 77\/100.  Lured in by the splash of brandy, deliciously zesty with boozy notes and sweetness from the juicy vine fruit. Tasters said that it lacked the festive spiced taste though.  \u00a31.35 for 6. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another supermarket came in at 6.  A<em>sda Extra Special Luxury Mince Pies <\/em>73\/100.  Juicy vine fruit in a thick jammy sauce filled the golden pastry. Pastry soft and light with a delicious shortbread taste.   Again, not enough festive spice for the tasters to score more points. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other contenders were:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><em>Asda Extra Special Sloe Gin Mince Pies <\/em>69\/100. \u00a32 for 6.<\/li><li><em>Lidl Luxury Mince Pies <\/em>65\/100 \u00a31.79 for 6<\/li><li><em>Sainsbury\u2019s Taste the Difference All Butter Mince Pies <\/em>61\/100. \u00a32 for 6.<\/li><li><em>Bettys Classic Traditional Mince Pies <\/em>59\/100 \u00a310 for 6. It\u2019s sad that a baker of this history isn\u2019t cutting it against other retailers.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Talking Turkeys<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Out of the 17\ntested<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">3rd place scoring 79\/100.  Lidl British Free-Range Bronze Turkey Crown with Pork, chestnut, onion and thyme stuffing and dry cured oak smoked bacon lattice.   One criticism \u2013 some found the sweetness from the honey roasted chestnuts a little too prominent.   \u00a316.99 for 2.72 kg.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2nd place with 79\/100.  Asda Stuffed Turkey Crown Roast in a bag \u2013 <em>Yes \u2013 a bag to help keep that oven clean <\/em>.  Easy to carve with delicious notes and sage and onion. Stuffed with quality pork. One minus \u2013 the skin didn\u2019t crisp up enough despite opening the bag towards the end of cooking.     \u00a313 for 1.75kg. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1st place scoring 84\/100.  M&amp;S Turkey Breast Crown with pork, sage and onion stuffing.  Described as a gloriously golden bird wrapped in bacon and well-filled with the stuffing. Tasters loved the crisp crunch of the bacon and the smoky-sweet flavour it added. Seasoned with sage, parsley and black pepper elevated and balanced the flavour making it herby and gamey.     \u00a330.60 &#8211; \u00a339.10 for 1.8-2.3kg.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Or even better how about visiting your\nlocal butchers for a fresh one and the trimmings \u2013 Tilly\u2019s butchers source\nfresh turkeys from Manley, Cheshire, and they will be around \u00a310.90 per kilo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>English cheeses pleases\n\u2013 But Welsh ones are better \u2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Black Bomber <\/em>voted Best British Cheese for a Fourth Time.   Rich, smooth flavour with a creamy texture. Tastes splendid squished into a stick of celery. Amongst others in the range are:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Red Devil <\/em>(chilli and crushed pepper) \u2013 perfect for melting  over nachos,  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Amber Mist <\/em>\u2013 mature cheddar with Whiskey (Royal Welsh Show Bronze medal winner, <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Natures Nectar <\/em>\u2013 Rum marinated Figs and honey, <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And for Christmas &#8211; <em>Bouncing Berry <\/em>(silver at the Nantwich International Cheese Awards)- what better than a burst of real cranberries. Light, creamy and fruity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>Stir-up Sunday<\/em><\/strong><em>&#8230; <\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8230;is the traditional day to make your Christmas Puddings and Christmas cakes and this year it was 24th November. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve not heard of\nStir-up Sunday, it is a tradition that goes back to the Victorian times when\nthe family would gather together to each stir the Christmas pudding &#8211; while\nmaking a wish.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Xmas Puds<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Joint winners 79\/100.  Iceland 12-month matured Christmas Pudding.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iceland 12-month matured Christmas Pudding.  Shot through with warming alcohol and heady Christmas spices, almond and pecans add crunch. Deliciously jammy vine fruit and plump glace cherries mixed with citrus peel \u2013   \u00a34 (400g).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lidl 24-month matured Christmas Pudding.  Generously laced with cider, cognac AND brandy soaked glace cherries! A light and balanced in flavour pud. Savoury treacle undertones, lots of vine fruit and a crunch from nuts.    \u00a311.99 (907g). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Joint runner up 77\/100.   Harvey Nichols Christmas Pudding.   Rich, almost chocolatey flavour with plenty of vine fruit and citrus peel. Crunchy whole nuts add texture to this sticky but light pudding.   \u00a39.50 (454g).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Ellie Elf \u2013 at least Harvey Nics came a respectable 2nd-ish. <\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Booths Brandy, Port and Walnut Christmas Pudding.  Described as a cross between Christmas pudding and a cake. Gently spiced with juicy fruit including apricots, with the taste of marzipan and citrus. Chewy fruit and crunchy walnuts added interest.    \u00a311.95 (908g).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodhousekeeping.com\/uk\/food\/food-reviews\/g23858366\/the-best-christmas-pudding\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">https:\/\/www.goodhousekeeping.com\/uk\/food\/food-reviews\/g23858366\/the-best-christmas-pudding\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A vegetarian option at Figgy\u2019s (they do however contain nuts and alcohol). Handmade in Devon by husband and wife team Richie and Jo Evans. They won the Gold in the Taste of the West Awards this year and a Gold in the Great Taste Awards, which they liken to an Oscar of the food world. The puddings are recommended by food writers and chefs, including James Martin, Xanthe Clay, Rose Prince and Tom Parker Bowles. Prices range from \u00a312.95 (350g) \u00a317.95 (550g) \u00a324.95 (950g) and just \u00a31.95 postage for any number of puddings UK mainland. Check their page for other postage rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I think that the small puds would make lovely gifts. Oh \u2013 they are all wrapped in cotton pudding cloth and in Mason Cash ceramic bowls too \u2013 definitely a plus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Booths have Lilly\u2019s Vegan Christmas Pudding.  Described as finest vine fruits, apple, apricot and ginger blended with vegan and gluten-free ale and brandy.    There are nuts in this recipe though.   \u00a36 for 2 people.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All the big supermarkets are doing alcohol free puds and Tesco have a nut and alcohol free pud, \u00a32.00 for 400g (2 for \u00a33 offer at the moment) \u2013 have a look round or use <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"https:\/\/www.mysupermarket.co.uk (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mysupermarket.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.mysupermarket.co.uk<\/a> to check on stock of all the big supermarkets and get the best offers on things you buy and see what\u2019s on offer too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Here is a simple guide to lighting your Christmas Pudding. <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure you choose a plate\nwith a little depth and a good-sized rim and plonk your pud in the middle. It\nis important to get the brandy\/rum\/whiskey really hot as this will make the\nflame bigger. Pour 2 -3 tablespoons into a long-handled metal ladle and heat\nover a gas flame for 20 seconds (or heat in a little pan then transfer into the\nladle). If using gas gently tilt the ladle over the gas flame to light the spirit\n&#8211; or, <em>and I think more safely <\/em>\u2013 use a match \u2013 you\u2019ll need someone to\nhelp. Immediately pour it over the pud &#8211; wait for the flames to go out \u2013 then\ntuck in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Follow\nthese tips for the best glazed carrots<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Use a saut\u00e9 pan that\u2019s large enough to hold the carrots in a single layer\u2014a straight-sided 10-to 12-inch saut\u00e9 pan works well. This is important so the carrots cook quickly and at the same rate.<\/li><li>If you\u2019re cooking for more than six people, use two pans or cook the carrots in batches, reheating the earlier batches just before serving.<\/li><li>You can use a cooking liquid other than water, such as vegetable or chicken stock, but I tend to choose water because it lets the carrots\u2019 own flavour come through. Enough liquid to just cover the carrots.<\/li><li>Cover the pan with the lid slightly askew once the liquid comes to a boil. This lets some steam escape so that ideally the carrots will be cooked by the time most of the water has evaporated.<\/li><li>Cook the carrots until the tip of a paring knife enters the carrots easily but still with the barest touch of resistance. I like my glazed carrots tender with a hint of bite.<\/li><li>When the carrots are done, remove the lid and boil the remaining liquid until it evaporates and forms a syrup. Shake the pan to roll the pieces around and evenly coat them in the glaze. You can serve the carrots just like this, or you can top them with a sprinkling of chopped fresh herbs.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Let\u2019s Bake\na Vegan Christmas Cake<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vegan Christmas cake &#8211; a\nrich, moist and boozy vegan fruit cake that is perfect for the festive season.\nEat right away or make in advance and feed as often as you like with rum or\nbrandy \u2013 stopping a week before you marzipan\/ice the cake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This recipe by the Domestic Gothess.  Find the link to her page and the recipe here: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/domesticgothess.com\/blog\/2018\/11\/10\/vegan-christmas-cake\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">https:\/\/domesticgothess.com\/blog\/2018\/11\/10\/veganchristmas-cake<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>YUMBLES.com\n<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Handmade\nWhite Christmas Cake (600g)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A festive round handmade Christmas cake made from the finest roast hazelnuts, almonds, orange and amaretto. Topped with a beautiful layer of white chocolate and almond paste. Made by a certified green producer, this handmade chocolate cake  does not only taste phenomenal, but is sustainably made in a local setting. A lovely looking alternative Christmas cake. \u00a312.50 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Veganettone<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just like the traditional panettone \u2013 made with passion and plant sustainably sourced plant-based ingredients only. Classic and chocolate available. Sourdough starter aired 3 times a day and the dough rises 4 times over 72 hours. Hand-made Vegan, No Palm Oil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ultimate\nVegan Christmas Roast Wellington<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avantgardevegan.com\/recipes\/ultimate-vegan-christmas-roast-wellington\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.avantgardevegan.com\/recipes\/ultimate-vegan-roast-wellington<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Vegan Christmas Roast Wellington, described as having a \u2018meaty\u2019 texture packed with Christmassy flavours.  6\/10 on the difficulty scale.   Serves 6\/8.   Not gluten free. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This chef has some amazing food \u2013 have a wander round the website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Marks and Spencer doing a similar vegan product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Plant Kitchen Festive\nRoast<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Described as a blend of mushrooms and\nsoya with a cranberry and chestnut stuffing garnished with a whole bay leaf (no\nhalf measures from Your M&amp;S) and comes with a sachet of vegetable gravy and\n12 vegan cocktail sausages with mushroom, soya, caramelised onion and herbs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Looking at the recipe above \u2013 you could wrap the pastry round this one too \u2013 brushing on the cranberry first \u2013 Yes! Serves 4. \u00a312, Product code 29022410.  The nutrition details are available on-line. Not suitable for milk and egg allergy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Best Roast\nSpuds<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maris Piper \/ King Edwards \/Desiree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A collection of ideas from\nsome of the best in the know\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Michel Roux Jnr: Oven 200\n\u2013 heat oil&nbsp; Peel and halve potatoes. Put\nthem in a pan of cold water with plenty of salt. Bring to the boil, reduce heat\nand simmer quickly 8-10mins. Drain in colander for a few minutes before shaking\nto \u2018bruise\u2019 the outsides \u2013 (put them back into the pan to do this and put the\nlid on to shake says St Delia Smith). Tip spuds into the hot oil \u2013 return to the oven \u2013 do not shake.\nAfter 10mins, turn and cook for another 30-45mins turning every 20mins or so\nuntil golden. Drain on kitchen paper and season with flaky sea salt. Delia says if the\nspuds are ready before you are \u2013 leave the potatoes in the oven and turn it\noff. BBC Good Food suggests once fluffing up the outside of the potatoes in the\ncolander sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of flour and shake gently until they are\nevenly and thinly coated \u2013 transfer them carefully to the roasting pan and\nroast in a single layer. Nigella shakes the par-boiled potatoes in a little semolina for added\ncrunch. Choose your favourite!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s an idea \u2013 how about hasselback potatoes instead \u2013 they look amazing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A showstopping cross\nbetween a roast potato and a fried one, both comfortingly fluffy and\nsatisfyingly crunchy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Chef Arron @ The Grosvenor Chester.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First up is you don\u2019t need to peel them \u2013 bonus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oven 180 degrees, place a\nkebab stick through the centre of your potato. Make cuts 5mm apart (stopping at\nthe kebab stick). Take out the stick. Rinse the spuds under cold water to take\nsome of the starch out &#8211; running water better than a bowl. Blanch 3-4 mins in\nboiling water. Drain and brush outer surface and slices with olive oil and\nsprinkle with Maldon salt. Bake in the oven for 30-40mins.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>DRINK<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Something to drink\nfirst<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First up is news on the newly released\nand eagerly anticipated Marks and Spencer Christmas range which is packed with\nindulgent flavours, innovative ideas and eye-catching decoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First pick is <em>Clementine\nGin Liqueur Snow Globe <\/em>\u00a315<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taken to a new level with the addition\nof 23 carat gold leaf which swirls in a snow globe effect when the bottle is\ntilted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sure to add magic and sparkle to any\ncocktail. Isn\u2019t this just a delightful picture!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More Clementines in a drink \u2013 Coca-Cola is launching a festive edition &#8211; Clementine Diet Coke. Available in Tesco, Asda and Morrisons from mid-October.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bubbles\nBubbles Bubbles &#8211; Prosecco <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Want to know the\nresults of the top picks this Christmas? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winner: Morrisons Prosecco Superiore DOCG 89\/100.  Blend of apple and citrus (grapefruit). Light and refreshing fizz with loads of bubbles.  \u00a310. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Runner up: Harvey Nichols Valdobbiadene 83\/10.  Hints of red on the nose, a citrusy flavour and a lightly sparkling texture.  \u00a316. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next: Tarvisium Prosecco from Laithwaites.  Citrus and pear flavours but the bubbles &#8230;  didn\u2019t last long\u2026  \u00a312 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Amongst the others tasted: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Tesco Finest Valdobbiadene DOCG 70\/100 \u00a310 <\/li><li>M&amp;S Colle del Principe DOCG 70\/100 \u00a312 <\/li><li>Aldi Organic Extra Dry 66\/100 \u00a37.99 <\/li><li>Lidl Allini Prosecco Spumante 66\/100 \u00a37.99<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sparkle\nsuggestion\u2026 <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always have a\nbottle of either Cr\u00e8me de Cassis or Cr\u00e8me de Mure in the house \u2013 add a spot to\nany white wine \u2013 bubbly or not \u2013 and Boom there you have a beautiful Kir. U<em>se\nthe cheapest white for your Kir &#8211; the liqueur is so strong that any expensive\ndelicate flavour will be lost.<\/em> <em>Head over to atipsygiraffe.com for a\nCr\u00e8me de Mure recipe.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gin Gin Gin Gin Talkin\u2019<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Spiced\nOrange and Cinnamon G&amp;T <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>50ml Gin <\/li><li>125ml tonic <\/li><li>Fresh orange slices (plus peel to garnish) <\/li><li>Fresh ground nutmeg <\/li><li>Cinnamon stick <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Put it together: <\/strong> Pour gin and tonic into a glass over plenty of ice, Then add a few orange slices, a little sprinkling of ground nutmeg (optional) and garnish with a cinnamon stick. (Don\u2019t use ground cinnamon!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Firebox<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Described as <em>tasting more Christmassy than that first warming mulled wine of the season. <\/em> This mulled wine gin liqueur combines spicy cinnamon and cloves with vanilla, clementine (yep those tangeriney\/orangey\/satsuma thingies \u2013 well I was asked the other day\u2026), and a drop of juniper.   Suggestion here is to serve with your favourite tonic or add a cheeky splash to your mulled wine \u2013 \u00a325.99 50cl (20% proof). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the same company: Mayo infused with gin \u2013 real gin. Squirt it over everything in sight the blurb reads.  2% proof and suitable for vegetarians.  \u00a35.99.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And finally, from this company \u2013 and there are so many gin related quirky things, Cranberry sauce infused with orange and a splash of vodka \u2013 smother your Turkey Lurky and piggies in blankets with this\u2026\u00a39.99.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Watermelon Gin <\/em><\/strong>from <em>Two Birds <\/em>with <em>Fever-Tree <\/em>Cucumber Tonic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Peaky\nBlinder Spiced Gin <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A full-bodied gin named after the Peaky Blinders &#8211; I know a few who might like this one but beware whoever buys it may keep it themselves.  Described: Nose: Ripe orange, oak-y cassia and perhaps a hint of coffee bean Palate: Ginger and black pepper and fresh citrus.  Finish: Oily juniper and a hint of eucalyptus. \u00a321.39.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Wasabi Gin <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dancing Sands distillery in New Zealand has gone and created Wasabi Gin! Local Golden Bay wasabi root is used alongside kelp, orange, horopito (a native peppery herb) and other botanicals. It&#8217;s bottled at 58% ABV, rather than the traditionally used term &#8216;navy strength&#8217;, Dancing Sands would prefer you used &#8216;wasabi strength&#8217;.  \u00a343.95 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Asda<\/strong> have\nlaunched three new festive gins after the successful Gingerbread Gin last year.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s Mince Pie Gin Liqueur (\u00a310) which Asda experts suggest pairing with Extra Special Clementine tonic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Toasted Marshmallow Gin\nLiqueur (\u00a310) \u2013 pair that with some prosecco for a fizzy festive drink. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And third is the winter\nExtra Special Spiced Gin with Cranberry and Clementine \u2013 triple distilled and\ncomes in at \u00a318 a bottle.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make your Gin and Tonic how you like it\n&#8211; add fresh cranberries and some sticks of rosemary \u2013 Rosemary is fabulous in a\nG&amp;T, and finally &#8211; twirl and sip<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pink Gin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>70cl Gin<\/li><li>200g Fresh raspberries<\/li><li>100g caster sugar<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Method:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Combine the raspberries, gin and sugar\nin an airtight jar, close and shake well. Store in a cool, dark place for two\nweeks. Strain using a sieve or muslin cloth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More ideas from BBC Good Food<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a raspberry and lemon gin, add the\nstripped peel of 1 unwaxed lemon to the gin before steeping. For a raspberry\nand vanilla gin, add a stripped half vanilla pod to the gin. For a raspberry\nBakewell gin, add a few drops of almond extract to the finished infusion. You\ncan swap the gin for vodka and make raspberry vodka. The gin will keep its\nvibrant pink colour for a few months and will be drinkable for a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Idea \u2013 use the boozy raspberries in a trifle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When buying your wines for\nChristmas &#8211; look out for organic and vegan wines for the most sustainable\noptions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waitrose says: Winemakers use substances called fining agents, which clarify the wine by attracting all the tiny suspended particles left after the winemaking process. The traditional fining agents are gelatin, egg white, a milk protein called casein and isinglass derived from fish &#8211; all of which vegans avoid. Vegan wines are made without animal products, so winemakers either leave the particles to sink naturally to the bottom of the wine, or use non-animal fining products usually bentonite, a form of clay or pea protein.&#8217; Just look for the wording on the label \u2013 all the supermarkets are  selling vegan\/vegetarian wines \u2013 too many to list It\u2019s time we all spent a little more time reading labels \u2013 remember to take your glasses oh boys and girls of a certain age\u2026 Marks and Spencer have announced a commitment to make all of its own-label wines vegan by 2022 \u2013 currently 70 per cent is vegan friendly. Lidl (\u00a311.49) and Sainsburys (\u00a321) sell vegan champagnes. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Last Posting Dates in the UK with the Royal Mail Second Class &#8211; Wednesday 18 December First Class &#8211; Friday 20 December Special delivery guaranteed \u2013 Monday 23 December International &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/2019\/11\/27\/some-festive-advice-from-julie\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;Some festive advice from &#8220;Sparkles&#8221;&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2857","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorised"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2857","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2857"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2857\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2876,"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2857\/revisions\/2876"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2857"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2857"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/lymmwinecircle.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2857"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}