Ah, Christmas in the UK – the season of twinkly lights, Christmas markets (and endless queues), panic stricken shoppers, festive sandwiches and those delightful hot drink specials that appear in every coffee shop in every corner of the land. As a market research company, we were keen to put these festive beverages to the test and find the best tasting concoction out there, putting in the hard yards so you don’t have to! And as someone who used to own a café, I wanted to bring a bit of an insider’s perspective on the steaming concoctions on offer at this time of year.
Let’s take a sip, shall we?
The Gingerbread Latte
We’ll start with the classic. The gingerbread latte has become a seasonal staple, and for good reason. I tried Starbucks’ version, and while it was a touch sweet for my palate, I get it. This drink is autumn / winter in a cup. Think chunky knits, leaf-strewn pavements and the smug satisfaction of wrapping your hands around a toasty mug. A definite winner.
The Pistachio Hot Chocolate
Next, I ventured to Café Nero for their Pistachio Hot Chocolate. Full disclosure: I wasn’t a fan. Too sweet and a bit too… synthetic? But I’ll give them this – pistachio is having its moment. The flavour, the pastel green aesthetic, it’s everywhere. Personally, I’d rather tuck in to a pack of salted pistachios and the joy of chucking the shells into a roaring open fire. Nostalgic bliss! I am a creature of simple pleasures.
Terry’s Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate
Costa, you absolute genius. A hot chocolate based on a Terry’s Chocolate Orange? Take all my money.
It’s rich, orangey and exactly what you want after battling through the high street or enduring a long motorway drive
Bonus points for the fact that you can get it from Costa Express machines at service stations. Perfect for when you are getting your Chris Rea on and driving home for Christmas.
Kamilla’s Maple Pecan Late
This drink was designed by Pret’s Barista Competition winner Kamilla. I love the backstory almost as much as the drink itself. Topped with whipped cream and cinnamon, it’s comforting, nutty and festive. But if I’m honest, it’s the marketing that won me over rather than the flavour. I’ll call this one a nice-to-try rather than a must-buy.
The Classics: Mulled Wine and Baileys Creations
Finally, a moment of appreciation for the undisputed stars of the season: mulled wine and Baileys. When I had my café, these were hands down the showstoppers year after year. There’s something magical about the waft of warm, spiced homemade mulled wine filling the air – it practically sold itself (though my dad would enthusiastically help by walking around the café and insisting everyone try it). He made it every year, and it was his absolute pride and joy.
And anything made with Baileys? Whether it’s a creamy hot chocolate or a luxurious latte (or even simply over ice), it always flew off the menu in my cafe.
These drinks didn’t need elaborate marketing or quirky names; they are just pure, festive comfort in a cup
While I’m all for trying something new, Christmas is also about nostalgia, comfort and those little traditions that make the season feel special. And for me, mulled wine and Baileys are the ultimate Christmas classics.
The Verdict
So, who takes the crown in this year’s Great British festive taste test? For me, Costa’s Terry’s Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate reigns supreme. It’s festive perfection in a cup. Starbucks’ Gingerbread Latte deserves a solid silver medal for its classic charm, while Kamilla’s Maple Pecan Latte gets points for creativity and heart. As for the Pistachio Hot Chocolate? Let’s agree it’s for someone with a sweeter tooth than me.
But really, the true winners of Christmas are simply a mulled wine or some form of Baileys creation (yes, you can call me boring, but I’m owning it). Because at the end of the day, festive drinks are about comfort and nostalgia.
Whatever your choice, here’s to a warm, Merry Christmas filled with the joy of festive drinks and a sprinkle of tradition. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to find an elasticated waistband to prepare for my next round of taste testing. Cheers!