In what is shaping up to be an otherworldly Christmas, one tradition that we can look forward to continuing is the gifting (or receipt) of a hamper. This beloved gift is very British, and one that is well-received by anyone and everyone. The broad appeal can be customised based on the contents of the hamper and can range from indulgent to practical to soothing. Below, we uncover a few of our favourites this year, available to arrive before Christmas. Shop away.
Claridge’s
Claridge’s hampers reflect the refined sophistication for which the hotel is known. Classically English, the elevated selection spotlights favourites typically enjoyed in the hotel, such as Claridge’s Christmas Cake and Claridge’s Aged Negroni, alongside signature mugs, apron, two cookbooks and a Fornasetti candle. The wines and champagnes are particularly nice as well; four bottles are included.
Daylesford
Daylesford’s many hamper options feature something for everyone. From CBD wellbeing hampers to hampers for children to all-encompassing hampers with food, wine, and items for the home, each iteration is stuffed with their selection of high quality, organic and farm-fresh items. We’re choosing the Christmas Pantry Hamper, filled with the best seasonal items – chutneys, coffee, biscuits, cheese and wine – and presented in their signature, sophisticated linen-lined white hamper.
Fortnum & Mason
The eternal classic, with bold, hand-stencilled logo, continues to reign supreme. Packed to perfection, Fortnum & Mason have many options, and you can customise your own as well. We recommend just going for it – particularly as it’s 2020 and we all deserve a bit of fancy – and ordering The Imperial. Actually five hampers instead of one, they are filled with 81 items. Including everything from a Glenarm Salt-Aged Rib of Beef to White Truffle Oil to Beluga Caviar to a bottle of 1995 Chateau Cos d’Estournel, plus tea and puddings galore, it will keep your small gathering satiated and in the festive spirit.
Une Pincée de Provence
If you, like most of us, have had travel arrangements disrupted this year, here is one solution – these curated mini-hampers will transport you to Provence. Scented with lavender and including the quintessential bottle of rosé, they are a mini-vacation in a box. Choose from a selection of scents and sweets; all are packaged in a pretty floral box.
Cowshed
If you’re covered on the food and beverage front, consider gifting yourself a wellness hamper. Relaxation is a priority over this Christmas break, and Cowshed’s Ultimate Hamper enables maximum tranquillity. Nine of their most popular products (each made in Somerset with entirely natural ingredients) are packed in a rustic wooden case, perfect for later storage and organisation. The Relax Bath & Shower Gel and the Relax Body Lotion will fast be on heavy rotation.
Clos19
Luxury wine and spirits retailer Clos19 has put together many beautiful gift boxes featuring fine champagnes and liqueurs – and, they have partnered with Milanese Pasticceria Cova, a centuries-old café that sells wine, coffee and confectionaries, on another, very special hamper. Including both sweet and savoury items, as well as the Cova book, we recommend gifting it along with a bottle of champagne.
For more information on the hampers mentioned, or for help placing an order, please contact your lifestyle manager.