Crafting cocktails at home has become a growing trend with more people enjoying the art of mixing drinks in the comfort of their own spaces. To work as an eminent house barman, having the good tools is as important as having quality ingredients. These tools make the process smoother and ensure your drinks are presented with finesse. This article explores the important tools every aspiring house barman should consider.

Shaker: The Eye of Cocktail Making

One of the most important tools for any barman is the cocktail shaker. It is used to mix ingredients by shaking them together with ice, ensuring a perfect blend of flavors. There are two principal types of shakers: the Boston shaker and the cobbler shaker .

The Boston shaker consists of two parts—a metal tin and a glass or smaller tin. It requires some practice to control but is portable and widely used by professionals. The cobbler shaker, on the other hand, comes with a built-in strainer and is more beginner-friendly.

When choosing a shaker, opt for a stainless steel edition. It is durable, lightweight, and does not retain odors. Shaking not only blends the flavors but also chills the drink, creating a refreshing experience. For drinks like margaritas, martinis, or daiquiris, a shaker is indispensable.

Mixing Glass: For Stirred Cocktails

While a shaker is used for drinks that need vigorous blending, a mixing glass is for cocktails that require gentle stirring. Drinks like the Negroni, Manhattan, or Old Fashioned are typically stirred rather than shaken to preserve their clarity. A mixing glass is a normal-looking glass container with a spout for easy pouring.

When stirring, always use a bar spoon as its long handle helps maintain control and minimizes aeration. Stirring allows the ingredients to mix while keeping the drink smooth and unclouded. This subtle process highlights the skill of balancing flavors.

Jigger: Right Measurements Matter

Precision is essential in cocktail making. A jigger, a small measuring tool, ensures that you pour the right amount of each ingredient. Most jiggers have two sides: one for a larger measure (usually one ounce) and the other for a smaller measure (usually half an ounce).

Invest in a double-ended jigger with clear markings. It eliminates guesswork and helps maintain consistency, especially when trying new recipes. Even a slight variation in measurements can change the balance of a cocktail, so this tool is crucial for maintaining quality.

Strainer: Achieving a Smooth Finish

After shaking or stirring, straining is essential to separate the liquid from the ice or other solids. There are different types of strainers, each serving a specific purpose.

The Hawthorne strainer , with its spring coil, fits over the shaker and is ideal for holding back ice while pouring. The julep strainer , often used with mixing glasses, resembles a large perforated spoon. Fine strainers are another useful addition, notably for removing small bits of herbs or fruit pulp. This ensures a sleek texture in the final drink. Having the right strainer ensures that each sip is as smooth as possible.

Muddler: Releasing Flavors

A muddler is a simple yet effective tool for releasing the flavors of fresh ingredients like herbs, fruits, and spices. It resembles a small pestle and is used to crush ingredients in the bottom of a glass or shaker. For cocktails like the mojito or caipirinha, muddling is an essential step.

Choose a muddler with a flat or slightly textured base for even pressure. Avoid plastic versions; opt for wood or stainless steel for durability and ease of cleaning.

Citrus Tools: Adding Freshness

Fresh citrus juice elevates a cocktail, making it vibrant and new. A good citrus squeezer or juicer is a must-have for extracting juice quickly and efficiently. Hand-operated squeezers are compact and easy to use, perfect for small quantities. A zester or peeler is equally important for garnishing. The zest of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or oranges adds aroma and a decorative touch to your drinks.

Ice Tools: Mastering Temperature and Texture

Ice plays a crucial role in cocktails, not just for chilling but also for controlling dilution. Ice cube trays are a basic essential, but consider investing in molds for large cubes or spheres. These melt more slowly, preventing your drink from becoming watery. An ice crusher is useful for drinks like the Mint Julep or a frozen daiquiri. Ice tongs or scoops ensure hygiene when handling ice and maintain the quality of your cocktail.

Bar Spoon: More Than Just a Stirrer

A bar spoon is a versatile tool with a long handle. It is not only for stirring but also for layering drinks, such as in a Black and Tan or Tequila Sunrise. Its slender design allows it to move smoothly against the sides of the glass, creating a consistent motion.

Choose a bar spoon with an easy grip and a weighted end for better control. Its role may seem minor, but it adds significant value to the overall process.

Glassware: Setting the Stage

Presentation is important in cocktail making, and the right glassware enhances the drinking experience. Highball glasses are ideal for long mixed drinks like gin and tonics, while lowball glasses are perfect for shorter cocktails like the Old Fashioned. Martini glasses, coupe glasses, and champagne flutes cater to specific drink styles. Having a variety of glassware not only adds elegance but also allows you to serve each cocktail as it was intended to be enjoyed.

Other Useful Tools

While the above tools are essential, a few additional items can improve your home bar setup. A bottle opener, corkscrew, and wine stopper are basic tools every barman needs. A small cutting board and sharp knife are handy for slicing fruits and garnishes. Reusable metal or glass straws can be a sustainable option for serving drinks. Coasters and napkins add a touch of professionalism to your setup.

Constructing Your Collection

Start with the basics and gradually expand your collection as you gain confidence and skill. Quality over quantity is important; invest in durable tools that will last. With the right equipment, you not only create great cocktails but also enjoy the process of crafting them.