10 Essential Cocktail Tools For Home Bars and Mixologists
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting to dabble in the world of making drinks, having the right tools can make all the difference. That’s where having the essential cocktail tools comes in handy. Here are 10 essential cocktail tools that every home bar needs to create impressive cocktails.
- Cocktail Shaker
A fundamental tool for any mixologist, the cocktail shaker allows you to blend ingredients together with ice for a perfectly chilled and mixed cocktail. Having one on hand is essential for creating a wide range of cocktails.
- Mixing Glass
Ideal for stirring cocktails that don’t require shaking, such as martinis or negronis, a mixing glass is a staple in any home bar. Its wide base and smooth sides make it easy to mix ingredients together while maintaining the drink’s clarity and texture.
- Bar Spoon
A long-handled spoon with a twisted handle, the bar spoon is used for stirring cocktails and layering ingredients. Its length and design make it perfect for reaching the bottom of tall glasses without disturbing the drink’s delicate layers.
- Muddler
For drinkies that require muddled ingredients, such as mojitos or old-fashioned, a muddler is essential. This tool is used for crushing herbs, fruits, and spices to release their flavours and aromas, adding depth and complexity to your cocktails.
- Jigger
Precision is key when it comes to making cocktails, and a jigger ensures that you’re adding the perfect amount of each ingredient every time. With measurements marked on both sides, a jigger is indispensable for achieving balance and consistency in your drinks. You will also look very professional using one.
- Strainer
When it’s time to pour your cocktail into a glass, a strainer helps remove any ice, fruit pulp, or herbs, ensuring a smooth and clean pour every time. Hawthorne strainers are a popular choice, but fine mesh strainers work well, too.
- Citrus Juicer
Freshly squeezed citrus juice can elevate a cocktail to new heights, and a citrus juicer makes it easy to squeeze every last drop of juice from lemons, limes, and oranges.
- Ice Cube Trays
Sounds obvious, we know, but the type of ice you use can greatly impact the flavour and appearance of your cocktails, so investing in high-quality ice cube trays is essential.
- Peeler
For garnishing drinks with twists of citrus or strips of zest, a peeler is indispensable. Just starting out and don’t want to splurge? Then opt for a normal veggie peeler.
- Knives
Prepping fruit is essential for your summer cocktails. You going to need a knife. Opt for stainless steel, as carbon steel knives turn black after prolonged exposure to citrus. A 13cm blade should do you fine.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, investing in these 10 essential cocktail items will make your home bar the place to be and allow you to create cocktails just like Tom Cruise in Cocktail.
