The traditional punch bowl is an essential part of any party - from P Diddy-esque extravaganzas and "Mr Ambassador you really are spoiling us" style receptions, to the kind of shindig you see in those gross-out frat house movies. A party just isn't complete without one.

The problem is most hosts seem happy to make do using a huge pudding bowl and a couple of ancient soup ladles. And when you think about it, that's a bit like serving champagne in toothbrush containers.

For this reason we went in search of a decent punch bowl. But what we found makes even the flashiest of containers look about as glam as a crushed can overflowing with cigarette butts. The ingenious Cocktail Fountain is an ornate, electric powered fountain that delivers cascades of punch (or any other drinkiepoo) directly into the cup. No ladle required!


Featuring an illuminated lower bowl, this highly Bacchanalian tower is crafted in high-quality crystalline plastic, but it wouldn't look out of place in ancient Rome. Or Posh and Beck's kitchen. Or Hugh Hefner's limo. Or Jabba the Hutt's barge. Well, you get the idea.

So how does it work? Well, your drink of choice (boozy or non-alcoholic) is pumped from the lower bowl to the top tier. It then cascades down from one level to the next through holes around the edge of each tier. This causes a stunning waterfall effect that allows guests to fill their cups without using a ladle.

A spectacular center-piece for any get-together, the fun but functional Cocktail Fountain is guaranteed to wow your pals with its dazzling display. It's also perfect for adding a touch of chi-chi glamour to your dinner parties. You could even make like a proper playboy and glug from its cascading curtains when slumped in front of the television. Seinfeld will never be the same again. Cheers! (Grape-wielding maidens sold separately).