As we continue our series dedicated to upping your bar game, we’ll take a closer look at the tools of the trade and figure out the must-haves and the nice-to-haves. All of these items make great gifts for that special mixologist in your lives. Just be sure to consider how much room you have to store them as that will determine what really is “nice to have”.
It’s all about the tools
Sure, you can get away with making a drink in your dorm room with a window screen and a used soda bottle, but that’s not what mixology is about. There is a technique and sophistication around the crafting of a good cocktail and it’s important to have the right equipment at the ready. (Here’s a 32-piece set that’s got it all.)
Must-haves
- Bible: The Harvard School of Bartending is my religion and the accompanying book is my bible. But any comprehensive bartending guide will do the trick.
- Shaker and glass: I prefer to use a large glass with a strainer lid (like this one). It gets the seal just right and makes life easy with less of a mess. But the old-school pint glass with a steel cup works just fine.
- Jigger: This little guy is crucial to getting the proportions just right. Don’t guess, use the recipe and measure.
- Twisty Spoon: The spiral shape of the handle is important. It aids in getting the ice and liquid to slide around the glass, rather than adding too much air and turbulence which clouds the drink. Here’s a good one.
- Strainer: Once you’ve got it mixed and ready to pour, make sure the ice stays behind with a solid strainer like this. The lighter ones are best, as they’ll rest on the lip of your shaker while you garnish, drop bevnaps, etc.
- Wine key and can opener: Skip all of the latest, greatest gadgets from The Sharper Image and just get a double-hinged wine key with a teflon-coated screw like this one. And you’ll need a sturdy can opener for mixers, beer, and such.
Nice-to-haves
- Muddler: If you are making anything that requires muddling, using this tool is way better than using a wooden spoon.
- Knife and Zester: The garnish is just as important as the glass and the spirits. A proper slice of citrus zest makes all the difference and a good knife and zester comes in very handy.
- Juicer: Extracting fresh juice is often the best part of a killer cocktail and having a hand-held citrus juicer can help a lot.
- Juicer: Extracting fresh juice is often the best part of a killer cocktail and having a hand-held citrus juicer can help a lot.
- Speed pourers: These little guys are great when you’re making a lot of drinks, as they provide a smooth, even pour. Once you learn and master the counting method, you can ditch the jigger and free pour.
There’s a lot more to share about how to properly imbibe with your family and friends during this time of year. Stay tuned for more helpful bartending knowledge as you entertain this holiday season. Up next, we’ll talk about proper glassware. Cheers!
By Jon Hansell | December 14, 2023