Like a classic espresso martini, but with the addition of vanilla vodka

This is our twist on the much-loved classic. It takes inspiration from a classic espresso martini, with the addition of vanilla vodka bringing with it an oaked edge that cuts the sweetness of the sherry.

Andréa Nuninger, restaurant manager, Àclèaf, Plympton, Devon

Looking to ditch disposable cups for good? Our reviewer bounced on trampolines and braved boiling brews to find the best

• The best lunch boxes – tested

Single-use takeaway cups belong with throwaway supermarket carrier bags in the landfill of history. Usually made from plastic-coated paper, the billions used each year burn through copious amounts of energy and water, while also contributing significantly to landfill.

The solution is simple: switch to a reusable coffee cup. These take various forms, such as cups, bottles and mugs, and are more eco-friendly options when used multiple times. There are leakproof travel mugs that can sit in a rucksack pocket; small ones ideally suited to car cup holders; and ones made from recycled post-consumer materials.

Whether it’s a super-glowy serum or a cult gardening tool, here are our writers’ favourite buys from the past year

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The Filter is turning two! To celebrate, we asked our contributors for their favourite products from the past year, and rounded up the team’s picks too.

From handbag-sized umbrellas and stylish yet practical wellies to reading lights and luxurious duvets, these are the products that stood out.

Always wondered what everyday stuff celebrities buy, where they shop for food and the basics they scrimp on? The Queer Eye legend talks handmade gifts, secondhand shopping and bag obsessions with the Filter

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Jonathan Van Ness rose to fame as the beauty and hair care expert on the multi-award-winning show Queer Eye. Their eight-year tenure as one of the “Fab Five” presenters ended when the show’s final season aired in January 2026. A hairstylist by trade, they have their own cruelty-free, vegan haircare brand, JVN Hair.

Beyond TV and beauty work, Van Ness has continued a career as a comedian, writer and podcast presenter. They have written five books, including the New York Times bestselling memoir Over the Top and their latest young adult novel, which they wrote alongside Julie Murphy, Let Them Stare. Van Ness continues to be an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, working on campaigns with The Trevor Project and Planned Parenthood.