Everybody remembers the excitement that comes with December 1st, the day you’re officially allowed to open up the first window in your advent calendar to reveal a little piece of chocolate on the other side. But, while tiny treats used to be the go-to for advent calendars, in recent years they’ve seen a much-needed update for adults—filled with everything from must-have beauty items to stunning Tiffany & Co. jewels.
Making that Christmas countdown all the more delicious this year are gin advent calendars, providing a different drop each day of the month. After all, there’s no better way to bring holiday cheer than with a gin and tonic in hand and sitting back with a classic Christmas movie (which, we’ve even made our own advent calendar of festive films to watch each day).
From seasoned experts to those wanting to dip their toes into the world of locally crafted gins, here are the advent calendars to put on your radar ahead of the festive countdown. Below, where to shop 2020’s best gin advent calendars.
Gintonica Gin Advent Calendar
For those that love Australian-made gin (or are looking to expand their knowledge on locally sourced drops), this is the advent calendar for you. It comes complete with 24 Australian Craft Gins, featuring mini-me distillery labels that span over six different states and 24 distillers. Also, if you happen to have given this one a go in previous years—the selections have changed, so you’ll be able to try even more gins from across the country. Tasting notes and serving suggestions are included, so you won’t run out of fun cocktail ideas either.
Available at gintonica.com.au, $279
That Boutique-y Gin Company Advent Calendar
Combining forces with Drinks by the Dram, gin experts at That Boutique-y Gin Company have created their 2020 advent calendar. Instead of finding little squares of chocolate behind each window, you’ll find a different 30mL wax-sealed dram of gin from That Boutique-y Gin Company’s extensive range. A great option for those looking to put a unique twist on your cocktails and clock off G&T’s. Or, for that gin aficionado on your Christmas gift list.
Available at masterofmalt.com, $75.03
Drink by the Dram Gin Advent Calendar
Looking to make your Christmas countdown more delicious? Drink by the Dram have something to do just that, with its Premium Gin Advent Calendar. Behind each little square lies a different 30mL dram of “juniper-based brilliance”, as they describe, which includes both new discoveries and old classics, along with some award-winning expressions. If you’re looking for the perfect pre-Christmas gift, even the most unenthusiastic gin drinker will be dying to give this a go.
Available at masterofmalt.com, $127.59
White Possums Gin Advent Calendar
For the real gin connoisseur, White Possums’ gin advent calendar reveals 25 days of Australian gins handmade by distilleries all over the country. They’ve curated a range of gin styles that include everything from London dry, sloe, modern botanical and navy strength gin—something for every taste! The premium gins are all bottled in their signature 30mL matte-black glass bottles, the perfect way to ring in the festive season.
Available at kentstreetcellars.com.au, $266.99
