You know what they say... the way to a person's heart is through their stomach. It's the time of year when (let's not lie) food and gifts are the peak perks- so why not wrap the two of them into one big delicious gift?
Rather than get them a swanky kitchen gadget that may end up gathering dust or some novelty food-shaped bath smellies (if I can't eat it I'm not interested), why not let them get a first-hand taste of the action with these seven delectable food and drink experiences?
1. For the one with a sweet tooth: Heavenly chocolate-making workshop
Led by award-winning chocolatier, Lisa from The Chocolate Tart, this masterclass is a sweet gift to find under the tree! In the historic Victorian seaside town of Clevedon your lucky recipient will learn about everything chocolate—from bean to bar—before taking a well-deserved coffee and cake break to ruminate over their new-found knowledge.
Then it's time to roll sleeves up and get stuck into making a selection of dainty delicacies (moulded bon bons, hand-dipped truffles, fresh cream ganaches, chocolate puddles- these are just some of the treats made in past workshops).
The location of this workshop is ideal for anyone wanting to make a day of it as there are plenty of picturesque views and top-quality restaurants to choose from in the area.
-> Heavenly chocolate-making workshop, £160 for two adults.
2. For the future Bake Off winner: Discover the art of baking
They'll learn the method behind the magic in this awesome science-based baking workshop. The thing about baking is that it's a precise alchemy, and if you don't follow a recipe to the letter then you're in for some disastrous results (remember when Iain threw his baked Alaska in the bin? We do).
With this workshop, they'll learn WHY one needs certain amounts of particular ingredients. After this experience, they'll be able to go culinary off-roading and start to create their own baking recipes! The dream!
Lunch is included in this adventurous day of baking explorations, so it's a whole-round gastronomic experience.
-> Discover the art of baking, £100 per person
3. For the one with adventurous tastes: Wild herb foraging workshop
This foraging experience is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors, good food and learning new skills. Rather than another item to unwrap, they'll leave with knowledge they can use for years to come - discovering edible and medicinal plants, seeing local green spaces in a whole new way, and gaining the confidence to forage safely and responsibly.
-> Wild herb foraging workshop, £38 per adult
4. For the wine enthusiast: wine and cheese tasting
This one makes a great stocking filler and is great for wine and cheese lovers! They'll be able to tuck into a deliciously paired cheeseboard with carefully selected, sustainable wines in a beautiful setting. Choose from KASK on North Street, or KASK² ON Cheltenham Rd.
This is perfect for groups, dates, or for someone fun-loving and with a bit of a silly side!
-> Wine and Cheese Tasting flight at KASK, £25 per person
5. For someone that loves pickles: make your own sauerkraut or fermented hot sauce
Know someone who's always experimenting in the kitchen? These hands-on fermentation classes make a brilliant Christmas gift. They'll discover the science behind fermentation, making their own delicious sauerkraut to take home, or a spicy hot sauce instead! It's a thoughtful experience that combines great food, practical skills and tips for a healthier gut - perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking, sustainability or trying something new.
-> Make your own sauerkraut, £25 per person
-> Make your own fermented hot sauce, £25 per person
6. For the coffee snob: Be a barista with Oddkin
Know someone that wouldn't be caught dead in a high street coffee chain? Do they wrinkle their nose at the thought of instant coffee? Do they have a prized collection of Moka pots at home? This is 100% the gift for them.
In the capable hands of the Head of Training at Oddkin coffee, they'll learn everything about coffee from bean to brew. They'll be taught how to identify a top-quality roast, the theory and science behind a gorgeously silky espresso, and how to get that milk perfectly micro-foamed. They'll even learn a spot of latte art!
-> Be a barista with Oddkin, £40 per adult.
7. For those with a sweet tooth: biscuit decorating workshop
For anyone who loves sweet treats and getting creative, this biscuit decorating class makes a wonderfully thoughtful Christmas gift. They'll learn professional icing techniques, create beautiful hand-decorated biscuits to take home, and enjoy a relaxed, sociable evening that's every bit as rewarding as the finished treats.
It's the perfect gift for crafty people, and anyone who loves to spend time with friends.
