There is always a certain amount of decadence and self indulgence that takes place over the Christmas period. The festive season marks the end of the year and for many it is a chance to reward themselves for their hard work and take a well earned breather before the new one starts. We also tend to spend more money on food and drink at this time of year and many suppliers rely heavily on the increase in trade in the months leading up to Christmas. But which are the drinks that prove to be most popular at this time of the year and why?

Champagne. Tying in very closely with the idea of rewarding ourselves and 'splashing out' at the end of the year, Champagne is the ultimate in exclusive drinks. The fact that is can only be sourced from one location in the world and is often considerably more expensive than other drink choices, makes it all the more appealing when it comes to embracing a superfluous attitude. Champagnes range from around $20 for a cheap bottle, right up to an incredible $275,000 for Heidsieck 1907 bottles, discovered by divers in 1997 in a shipwreck off the coast of Finland. Of course, it is not all about money, many people drink Champagne as they believe it has superior taste.

Bucks Fizz. For those people who can't quite stomach Champagne (maybe it is too earlier or you're on a tight budget), you can also try Bucks Fizz. This very popular festive cocktail is a mix of orange juice and Champagne, in proportions to suit the drinker. It was invented in London in 1921 and takes its name from the 'Buck's Club' where it is thought to have originated. Bucks Fizz is also popular at other occasions and celebrations and offers a lighter alternative to the more alcoholic straight champagne, but still keeps a great flavour and a certain exclusivity.

Sherry. This drink is classically more popular with the older generation, although it is again regaining a following among younger drinkers. Sherry is a fortified white wine that is made in Jerez, Spain. It comes in lots of different strengths, colours and tastes, although the most popular are the sweeter varieties. The drink became very popular in the UK after Sir Francis Drake brought almost 3000 bottles of it back from the Spanish port of Cadiz in 1587, following an attack on the Spanish ships there. It was used for many medicinal purposes for hundreds of years and it was long thought to help fight Pneumonia. As this illness was often more prominent in the winter months, sherry soon became a drink enjoyed at Christmas as a way or promoting warmth and good health.