The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word TIPPLING
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TIPPLING mean?
TIPPLING verb- To sell alcoholic liquor by retail.
- To drink too much alcohol.
- To drink alcohol regularly or habitually, but not to excess.
- To put up (hay, etc.) in bundles in order to dry it.
- To fall over; to topple.
- A session of drinking alcohol.