Christmas just got considerably more exciting for real ale enthusiasts with the arrival of an innovative advent calendar that swaps traditional chocolates for premium craft beers.
A Different Approach to the Boozy Countdown
The 2025 Real Ale Advent Calendar offers a clever twist on the seasonal countdown concept. Rather than featuring 24 drinks like many alcoholic alternatives, this calendar focuses on the 12 Days of Christmas, providing a more manageable pace for enjoying quality beverages.
Journalist Gareth Butterfield, who received an early preview, admitted this was the calendar he was most anticipating despite having already sampled whisky and rum versions this year. "Let's just say it's shaping up to be a very Merry Christmas," he noted, adding that his GP would probably appreciate the more moderate approach.
Quality Over Quantity
What sets this calendar apart is its focus on traditional cask ales presented in proper cask ale bottles. Unlike keg-style beers, these selections offer more authentic flavours with no artificial carbonation, providing a fresher taste that better represents the brewer's original vision.
The beer selection is particularly impressive, with all 12 ales hand-picked from independent breweries. The packaging design from Qwerty Beer Box has been praised for its clever cardboard slots that align perfectly with the 12 pop-out windows on top, creating both an attractive presentation and genuine element of surprise.
Substantial Savings Available
Timing is perfect for those looking to purchase this unique calendar, as a Black Friday deal has significantly reduced the price. Originally costing £92.99, the calendar is now available for £74.39 – representing a 20% saving.
The package includes free delivery and will arrive well before the December 2 start date, making it an ideal early December gift. Butterfield described the calendar as perfect for "the craft ale connoisseurs in our lives" who appreciate traditional brewing methods and quality ingredients.
Beyond the excellent beer selection and clever packaging, the calendar includes additional surprises that reviewers have chosen not to spoil. For anyone seeking a distinctive Christmas countdown experience or the perfect gift for a beer-loving friend or family member, this real ale advent calendar represents both quality and value during the current promotional period.
