With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, AJ Sharp ditches the clichés and pulls together a Food Rebels gift guide that’s all about flavour, story and genuinely thoughtful food and drink. Joined by Claire Pope, editor of Taste Kent Magazine, AJ explores gifts that actually mean something, whether you’re buying for a partner, a friend, family, or yourself.
The episode is packed with standout recommendations, including the wildly distinctive Tumble Down Gin from the Falkland Islands, with its savoury scurvy grass notes and incredible provenance, and Roebuck Estates Rosé de Noirs, a premium English sparkling wine that’s all about elegance and celebration. Things heat up with Ramsbury Hot Honey Vodka, tapping into the swicy trend, and the beautifully playful heart-shaped Tracklements Fresh Chilli Jam, perfect for cheese boards and beyond.
There are clever, feel-good picks too, like the caffeine-controlled coffee gift set from True Start Coffee, ideal for flavour lovers who want better sleep, and surprisingly stylish kitchen pieces from Peugeot Saveurs, including adjustable salt and pepper mills and a heart-shaped baking dish. For chocolate lovers, AJ and Claire taste their way through Ort Dolce’s Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Chocolate, indulgent boxed chocolates from Lily O’Brien’s, and artisan caramel treats and letterbox-friendly bakes from Lottie Shaw’s.
Finished off with a nostalgic nod to Swizzels Love Hearts, this episode is funny, warm and full of genuinely great ideas, celebrating independent brands, proper craftsmanship and the joy of giving something that feels personal. Perfect listening if you want your Valentine’s gifting to feel thoughtful, delicious and a bit more Food Rebels.