Welcome to December

Gin makes me happy. And I know it makes a lot of you happy, too. And so when we were deciding on the presents we’d liked to give to friends and family for Christmas (like it or not, it’s coming), it had to feature. We’ve got a gift guide (including a very funky bottle to try) to suit all budgets this year. There are some really nifty things in there: from water bottles that filter any water – perfect for that teenager who’s planning an adventure next year – to an incredible jar of white chocolate, hazelnut and olive oil spread, as a little stocking or hamper filler. It’s genuinely one of the most delicious mouthfuls I’ve ever had and the team (not naming anyone… you know who you are) has taken to eating it straight from the jar at their desks.

We’ve also put together a cracking collection of recipes for those of you that love to DIY at this time of year. There’s nothing more genuine or thoughtful than giving a gift that you’ve lovingly crafted yourself. What else were dark winter nights made for, after all? From gin and tonic dip dabs (yes really, they’re ace) and Aperol and red grapefruit marmalade to our incredibly easy cover recipe, a super on-trend and delicious mocha chocolate slab. There’s even a guide to making your own tree and table decorations, too, if you’re feeling really creative.

And when I’ve finished making all of those for my nearest and dearest (spoiler alert, you lucky things), I’ll be clearing out the freezer to make way for all of the brilliant new get-ahead entertaining recipes we have on page 27. There’s nothing more satisfying for me than making a big batch of something, then pulling it out of the freezer, later, smug in the knowledge that I’ve done all the hard work already. Melting cheese and onion pie… just saying.

So before we descend into full Christmas chaos, enjoy the winter bulking, and happy crafting and cooking!