Christmas In July

Yes you did read this right I did just mention Christmas in July. Oddly enough it was rather fantastic to see all the things that will be on most people’s shopping lists 6 months ahead of schedule. Stacks and stacks of ideas for all the family where in abundance at this particular event. Most high street shops have been doing these events throughout July for press and bloggers. The main product launch that held my excitement was from ComptoirLibanais.com You must know them…The amazing Lebanese restaurants from around London. If you visit Sloane Square or Westfield you will know the place. If you haven’t tried their fabulous fare before…well it’s a total must. Not happy with just an incredibly wonderful cookbook they have just developed a range of Crockery and kitchenware. All in keeping with the vibrant and pretty Lebanese theme. Dining won’t be the same again with this brilliant range. They sell it throughout their restaurants and are looking for retailers to take on this pretty line. The items start from just £3 up to £40 for their impressive stoneware.

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The lovely new range from CarolineGardener.com normally known for her greetings cards was so pretty. Delightful coin purses to an amazing new range of leather handbags and purses.

The new and amazing debut collection is made up of creations that Caroline would like to actually own herself, with prices that won’t break the bank. I’m all for that! They are stunning and so exquisite you will be adding more than one to any bag collection. The fabulous and fashionable collection are made up of handbags, wallets, tote bags, coin purses and pouches, all for under £300. With style and quality being everything to Caroline this range would make anyone happy this christmas.

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I spied the Spanish cured meats from Viandasde Salamanca. And went in for a tasty nibble. Their range of high quality hams, sausages and deli goods are to die for. A fab gift for a foodie.

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Karma cola was exceptional and blooming tasty to say the least. The cola knocked spots off a well known brand! Those clever people believe that your fizzy drinks should not only taste great but also should be good for the land and the people that help to grow the ingredients. Nowhere else will you find a fizzy drink that’s actually really rather good for you! All their drinks are made form organic and fair trade sources with good sugars. No evil ingredients in these delicious drinks. Find them at www.Karmacola.co.uk

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Then lastly the fantastic range from WhiskHampers.co.uk had all my Christmas gifts wrapped up! The coffee, gin and whiskey lovers in the family will be sorted and a self gift of tea for me! You can’t go Christmas shopping and not self gift now it’s an unwritten rule didn’t you know! One of the reasons Christmas is so good you can hide all the evidence!!

What have you in mind for gifts now that I have given you a few ideas? Yes I know its early but this way you might actually be able to enjoy the Christmas sales if all your shopping is done in the next few months. I know what I will be getting everyone for their stockings. I just hope my friends and family don’t read this as that would give it alway totally!

Christmas In July, Why Not? Festive Wine Guide

Frost magazine took some time out from summer to celebrate Christmas, okay, to do some wine tasting in a winter wonderland. Accolade wine are revamping their wines, and even bringing out a new low alcohol range. Perfect for light weights like me.

I was privileged to try the new Banrock Light range. The Banrock Station Light Rose is only 5.5 per cent alcohol but tastes just as great. I love Rose and this just tastes good. It is only 60 calories per 125ml, so it helps with a calorie heavy Christmas (or any other time) It is reasonably priced at £5.45. It has a touch of sweetness and hints of red berry, jam, strawberry, raspberry and cherry. Yum.

Other in the Banrock Light range are Banrock Station Light Chardonnay-Sauvignon Blanc (a fresh wine with pear and apricot aromas), Banrock Station Pink Moscato (Melon and floral, very sweet, a great aperitif), Banrock Station Moscato (passion fruit, pineapple and tropical fruit. Good with cheese) All the Banrock Light range are £5.45. A bargain.

Banrock station have donated £2.5 million to 97 environmental projects in 13 countries, and £30k to Natural England to help preserve 2100 acres of British wildflowers, an important habitat for bees and butterflies.

Another favourite of mine is something a bit different: Stone’s Ginger Wine Special Reserve. It is a blend of the finest quality raisins and pure ground ginger, it produces a delicious, mellow warming flavour. It is perfect for Christmas, going well with mince pies and Christmas puddings. I, however, will be drinking it all year round. So yummy.

Hardy’s is the UK’s most popular brand of wine, and sponsor of Come Dine With Me. The Nottage Hill range has new packaging that will hit the shelves from September 2011. I love Hardy’s Crest Chardonnay Pinot Noir. It is a lively berry fruit tones and a crispy tangy finish. It is a very good wine for making bucks fizz.