1. Bitters - According to many of our bartenders, bitters are an essential ingredient for any home bar. These highly concentrated aromatic liquids are used to enhance the flavor of cocktails and add depth and complexity. They are available in many different flavors, including citrus, floral, and aromatic.
2. Shakers - Another key tool that every home bartender should have is a cocktail shaker. Whether you prefer a classic stainless steel shaker or a modern glass one, make sure it's large enough to accommodate your ingredients, ice, and enough space to shake vigorously.
3. Ice - Good ice is essential for any good cocktail, and bartenders recommend using large, clear ice cubes. If you don't have an ice maker, you can easily make clear ice at home by boiling filtered water and freezing it in large silicone ice cube trays.
4. Glassware - The right glassware can make a big difference when it comes to serving cocktails. Bartenders recommend having a range of glasses on hand for different types of cocktails, including highballs, martini glasses, and rocks glasses.
5. Jiggers - For precise measurements, a jigger is an indispensable tool for any home bartender. Choose one with clear markings that will allow you to measure out ingredients accurately.
6. Muddler - If you enjoy making cocktails that require muddling, such as mojitos or old-fashioneds, a muddler is a must-have tool. Choose one made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or hardwood.
7. Citrus press - Fresh citrus juice is key to many cocktails, and a citrus press is the best way to extract juice quickly and easily. Choose a manual press that allows you to extract the maximum amount of juice with minimal effort.
8. Vegetable peeler - Bartenders recommend using a vegetable peeler to create beautiful twists of citrus peel for garnishes. Make sure to choose a peeler with a sharp blade and a comfortable handle.
9. Strainers - When making cocktails with shaken ingredients, a strainer is necessary to remove ice and other solids. Choose a Hawthorne strainer for straining shaken cocktails, and a fine-mesh sieve for straining freshly-squeezed juices.
10. Simple syrup - Simple syrup is a key ingredient in many cocktails, and it's easy to make at home. To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until the sugar dissolves. Let cool before using.
11. Vermouth - For classic cocktails like martinis and negronis, vermouth is an essential ingredient. Bartenders recommend having a quality sweet and dry vermouth on hand.
12. Bittersweet liqueurs - Liqueurs like Campari and Aperol are essential for making bittersweet cocktails like the Negroni and Americano.
13. High-quality spirits - Of course, no home bar is complete without a selection of high-quality spirits. Invest in a few bottles of your favorite spirits, such as gin, vodka, tequila, and rum.
14. Fresh herbs - Fresh herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary can add a beautiful freshness to cocktails. Bartenders recommend growing your own at home if possible, or buying from a local farmers market.
15. Tonic water - Tonic water is an essential mixer for classic cocktails like gin and tonic, but don't overlook the importance of choosing a quality tonic water. Quality tonic waters have more complex and nuanced flavors compared to the generic ones.
16. Limes - Fresh limes are a must-have for home bartenders, as they add a touch of acidity and tartness to cocktails. If possible, buy organic or locally-grown limes for the best flavor.
17. Bar spoon - A bar spoon is a long, thin spoon used for stirring cocktails. Choose one with a twisted handle that makes it easy to stir drinks smoothly and quietly.
18. Grenadine - Grenadine is a syrup made from pomegranate juice and sugar, and is essential for cocktails like the Tequila Sunrise and the Shirley Temple.
19. Pretty Grab Bars Suppliers – The pretty grab bars suppliers are essential for making a home bar accessible for guests of all ages and mobility levels.
By following the tips from these expert bartenders, you can create a home bar that is stocked with all the essentials for making great cocktails. So, go ahead, and start experimenting with new flavors and ingredients to find your new favorite cocktail recipes!