I got to try Sainsbury's Christmas range — these are the 2 items worth buying
I was lucky enough to try Sainsbury's Christmas range for 2026. There's so much to choose from, but two products stood out - and you won't want to miss them.
Christmas at UK supermarkets is really amping up, and with still over three months to go until the big day, customers can rest assured that they’re in for a treat. Even though it’s September, supermarkets and foodies alike are gearing up for one of the busiest times of the year.
It just so happens that I’ve gotten a sneak peek at some of the country’s biggest supermarket’s festive offerings. Having already seen what Tesco and Morrisons have to offer, this time all eyes are on Sainsbury’s. While supermarkets tend to put all of their sub-brands on show, this year Sainsbury’s decided to do things a little differently, by focusing solely on food and drink and its Christmas showcase.
In essence, the food speaks for itself. Its festive food will see over 330 new products launched in stores this Christmas, plus 60 products from its Taste the Difference Discovery range into its festive collection for the first time.
There are some familiar favourites among the collection, alongside a push of top quality ingredients created into expertly crafted products. Sainsbury’s is focusing on bringing its customers a restaurant-quality experience for decent prices, while keeping humble Christmas traditions at the heart of its range.
My star of the show were two items that are perfect for sharing and entertaining. The Taste the Difference Charcuterie & Fondue Platter (£12) immediately caught my attention.
Bubbling molten Emmental fondue, primed and ready to be whipped up in the oven without any of the fuss of making it from scratch. Served alongside bite-sized pieces of sourdough, salty Prosciutto di Speck and Emiliano salami, and zingy cornichons, it brings the exclusivity of the Alps right into your home. Who needs a ski trip?
Despite it serving four people, personally, I could eat the whole dish. It’ll have your friends and family wanting more.
Whether you’re entertaining others or simply want to jazz up your Christmas morning tipple, look out for the Taste the Difference Clemencello (£16); a zesty, citrus twist on the Italian aperitif. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for a winter cocktail delight.
Of all the party food Sainsbury’s has to offer this year, I’ll be keeping an eye out for the Taste the Difference 8 Fox Bao-by Buns (£5.50), which children will absolutely love; as well as the Taste the Difference Discovery Mini Toad in the Holes (£8), a comfort food season classic. To complete your post-Christmas dinner feast or picky bits tea, there are a number of cheeses that will have your mouth salivating.
Much like the other major supermarkets, retro dishes seem to be making a comeback this year, with ready-to-go prawn cocktails, three different types of cured and smoked salmons hailing from the Hebridies, and a decadent Taste the Difference Black Forest Cheesecake (£15), which I’m glad is not actually a gateau. Oh, and don’t forget the Taste the Difference Sherry Trifle (price TBC) that uses a whole Victoria sponge inside it.
One nostalgic dish which caught my eye was the Taste the Difference Discovery Dry Cured Festive Bone In Crackling Gammon. Ham seems to be making a comeback every year, especially for those households who find turkey bland or hard to perfect.
Seafood fans, like myself, will also be happy to know that they’ve not been forgotten this Christmas. Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Discovery Hebridean Salmon & Scottish Langoustine En Croutes (£9.95) are the perfect size for individuals, so you won’t need to slave away making a massive seafood centrepiece that most people won’t eat.
Pair that with the Taste the Difference King Prawn Platter with Sweet Chilli Sauce (£10) and the Taste the Difference Discovery Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter (£25), and you’ll have yourself a seafood bonanza.
There’s almost too many products to choose from, I don’t know where to look. I just hope I manage to get my hands on some.
Sainsbury’s made the right move putting its food and drink centre stage. There’s something for everyone, and this is just the beginning.
