The Daily Telegraph - Saturday - The Telegraph Magazine
HEAVEN SENT
The perfect Christmas, through the post
LAST MONTH, research by Opentable revealed that the number of people who dine out on Christmas Day has risen by 240 per cent over the past five years. Outsourcing the big meal is a no-brainer for many who dread the idea of turning out piles of pigs in blankets and roast potatoes, and doing away with the pre-feast shopping has its appeal, too, for those who do elect to cook. There are many sound suppliers who can send the whole festive gamut through the post.
Daylesford delivers everything from a side of smoked salmon (with a bottle of sparkling rosé and two wine glasses, naturally; £125), to the complete works – booze, ham, terrines, cheese, cake, pud and more – for £500. Its Creamery & Smokehouse Hamper (£125) covers all general grazing requirements. Meanwhile, Farmison & Co can send bird, beast or beef Wellington to your door, not to mention ready-to-cook trimmings (stuffing with Bramley apple, citrus peel and spices for £5.45, or an ‘essentials’ box including bread sauce and gravy for £20). Opening a hamper full of cheese would make most people’s Christmas, and Paxton & Whitfield throws in crackers, port and chutneys in selections that start from £30.
As for the cellar, this year I’ll be supplementing wine with craft beer – Beer 52’s 12 Beers of Christmas box is down from £60 to £35.95 – and spirits destined for aperitifs (Craved’s kits include G&T and Bloody Mary essentials, from £35). All of which also make superb gifts ideas, if that box needs ticking, too.