Now that Christmas is approaching it's time to consider stocking-up with some delicious beers that can be sipped and enjoyed round the festive table. With so many superb beers being brewed now, it is also worth slipping them into a few Christmas stockings too - and keeping a few bottles near the chimney for Santa.

Duchy Originals Organic Winter Ale ABV 6.2% £1.95 This ruby-coloured organic ale offers a hint of citrus flavouring that combines well with that dried fruit and toffee flavour that is so popular at this time of the year. Its crisp, bitter, finish and warming afterglow make this a perfect Christmas ale.

Fullers Vintage Ale ABV 8.5% £3.29 This limited edition bottle-conditioned vintage ale is for drinking now, or laying down for festive seasons yet to come. As it comes in an attractive box, it's an ideal gift for anyone who likes a copper-coloured ale with an inviting hop aroma and complex flavours.

Thomas Hardy's Ale ABV 11.7 £3.49 Surely Britain's strongest ale - to be sipped and enjoyed at the end of the meal. This limited edition bottle-conditioned classic will keep for up to 25 years. But why wait that long when you can drink it now!