Mix it Up in Style: The Ultimate Guide to the Top Bartending Kits for 2023

Mixology, the art of creating cocktails, has become increasingly popular over the years. From simple drinks such as a Margarita to more complex creations like a Negroni or Espresso Martini, bartending has become a form of art that requires skill, creativity, and precision.

With mixology gaining popularity across the world, it’s no surprise that more and more people are interested in trying their hand at creating their own cocktails at home. However, to make high-quality cocktails at home just like professional bartenders do in bar settings, it’s important to have the right tools for bartending.

A well-equipped bar set not only ensures you have everything you need to create delicious and visually appealing cocktails but also makes the process much easier and enjoyable. The purpose of this article is to provide readers with a comprehensive guide on the top bartending kits to own in 2023.

Whether you’re just starting out with mixology or are an experienced bartender looking to upgrade your tools, this guide will help you choose the right equipment for your needs. So let’s get started on our journey towards becoming expert home bartenders!

Essential Bartending Tools

Mixology is an art that requires precision and creativity. Having the right tools for bartending is essential to creating top-notch cocktails. Here are some of the basic tools every bartender should have in their kit:

Bar Spoon

A bar spoon is a long, slender spoon used for stirring cocktails. The twisted handle allows for easy spinning between fingers, which helps to create a smooth and consistent mix. The length of the stem also makes it easy to reach the bottom of taller glasses.

As a result, it’s ideal for layering drinks like Pousse-cafes or creating stirred drinks like Martinis. Our recommended brands for bar spoons include Cocktail Kingdom and OXO.

Cocktail Strainer

A cocktail strainer is used to separate ice and other solid ingredients from the liquid when pouring from a shaker or mixing glass into a serving glass. It ensures that no unwanted ingredients end up in the final drink.

There are two main types of cocktail strainers: Hawthorne (spring) strainers and julep strainers. Our recommended brands for cocktail strainers include OXO, Cocktail Kingdom, and Koriko.

Bottle Opener

A bottle opener is one of the most fundamental tools in any bartender’s kit – it’s used to open beer bottles with ease! There are many different types of bottle openers available on today’s market, including handheld openers with handles, wall-mounted openers, and even magnetic options that can be attached to your fridge or cooler. Our recommended brands for bottle openers include Oster Pro, Kikkerland Design Inc., and Barfly Mixology Gear.

Having high-quality bartending tools will make your life as a mixologist easier while simultaneously improving your cocktails’ quality. So go ahead – invest in these essentials, and watch your bartending skills flourish!

Cocktail Shakers: A Must-Have Tool for Any Bartender

When it comes to making cocktails, one of the most important tools every bartender needs is a cocktail shaker. A cocktail shaker not only helps to blend all the ingredients together but also cools down the drink, making it more refreshing and enjoyable.

There are several different types of cocktail shakers available, each with its own unique set of benefits. Here are a few of the most popular types:

Boston Shaker

The Boston shaker is one of the most common and versatile types of cocktail shakers used in bartending. It consists of two parts: a metal tin and a pint glass or mixing glass.

The mixing glass is filled with ice and ingredients, while the metal tin is placed on top to create a tight seal. This type of shaker works well for drinks that require shaking with ice and straining.

Cobbler Shaker

The Cobbler shaker is another popular type used by bartenders around the world. It consists of three parts: a metal tin, a built-in strainer, and a cap that doubles as a measuring cup.

This type of shaker is perfect for beginners or home bartenders as it’s easy to use and doesn’t require any additional tools to strain drinks. However, it can be difficult to get a tight seal which may result in leaking while shaking.

French Shaker

The French Shaker (or Parisian) is similar to the Boston shaker but instead uses two metal tins instead of one tin & one glass; this means no need for an additional strainer since you shake your drink without ice before adding in ice at last momment which makes this type great for egg whites cocktails like Sour or Fizz. Yet, it may be difficult to have the right seal and opening due to the lack of glass to help with the suction.

Choosing the Right Shaker Brand

Now that you know about the different types of cocktail shakers available, it’s important to choose a reputable brand that will last you a long time. Here are some of the best shaker brands for home bartending:

Oggi

Oggi offers a range of affordable cocktail shaker sets that are durable and stylish. Their sets often come with additional bar tools such as jiggers and strainers, making them perfect for beginners.

Cocktail Kingdom

If you’re looking for high-quality professional-grade barware, Cocktail Kingdom is your go-to brand. They offer a wide range of shakers and accessories used by top bartenders worldwide.

OXO Good Grips

OXO’s line of stainless steel cocktail shakers is both affordable and durable. These shakers are easy to clean and maintain, making them perfect for home use.

Tips on Properly Using Your Cocktail Shaker

Now that you have your cocktail shaker in hand, it’s important to know how to use it properly to get the best results:

• Fill your Boston or French style with ice first so when shaking other ingredients dilute evenly throughout.
• Add all your ingredients into Cobbler Shaker before filling up 2/3 with ice cubes; shake all together well & then strain into glass over fresh ice if necessary.
• Always ensure your seal is tight before shaking (with practice you will get better), as poorly sealed cocktails can result in spills or leaks.
• Shake hard and fast for about 10-15 seconds to get the right amount of dilution and aeration.

• When you separate your shaker, tap the metal part downwards so the seal can be easily opened.

• Clean your shaker after each use with warm water and mild soap to prevent rust from forming on metal parts.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious cocktails like a pro!

Jiggers and Measuring Tools

One of the most crucial aspects of mixology is precise measurements. Each cocktail has its own specific recipe, and the slightest variation in measurement can alter the taste and quality of the final product. This is where jiggers and other measuring tools come in handy.

The Importance of Precise Measurements in Mixology

Precise measurements are essential in creating the perfect balance between ingredients in a cocktail. Too much or too little of any component can change the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of a drink. For example, adding too much sugar syrup to a margarita can make it sickeningly sweet, while not enough lime juice can leave it tasting dull.

With cocktails becoming increasingly complex and intricate, bartenders need to be more precise than ever before. If you’re serious about mixology, invest in high-quality jiggers and measuring tools to ensure accuracy every time you make a drink.

Types of Jiggers Available and Their Uses

A jigger is a measuring tool used by bartenders to measure small amounts of liquid accurately. Jiggers come in different sizes, shapes, materials, and designs based on their intended use. The two most common types of jiggers are Japanese-style jiggers (also known as double-sided or two-sided) and American-style jiggers (also known as single-sided).

Japanese-style jiggers have two different size cups on each end — usually 1 oz/2 oz or 1/2 oz — while American-style jiggers have one cup with multiple measurements marked on it. Jiggers are made from various materials such as stainless steel, copper, glass, plastic or silicone.

Stainless steel is the most common material choice for professional bartenders because it’s durable, easy to clean & maintain. Copper jiggers are also popular due to their aesthetic appeal.

Other Measuring Tools such as Bar Spoons and Shot Glasses

In addition to jiggers, other measuring tools that bartenders use include bar spoons and shot glasses. Bar spoons are used for more precise measurements of small amounts of liquid like bitters or syrups. They usually have a twisted handle that makes it easy to stir drinks.

Shot glasses are used to measure bigger volumes of liquor like vodka or gin. They come in many shapes, sizes and materials but the most common ones have a 1 oz or 1.5 oz capacity and are made from glass.

Using these additional measuring tools will give you more flexibility when creating new drinks and experimenting with various recipes. Having a variety of options in your bartending arsenal is essential for creating the perfect cocktail every time.

Strainers and Pourers

Types of Strainers Available for Different Types of Cocktails

A strainer is an essential tool for home bartending as it separates solid ingredients from a cocktail, creating a smooth consistency. The Hawthorne strainer is the most commonly used type of strainer and works best for cocktails that are shaken. For drinks that are stirred, the Julep strainer is recommended.

Additionally, a fine mesh strainer can be used to strain out any remaining small particles. For cocktails containing fruit or herbs, a tea strainer or a chinois (a conical sieve with very fine mesh) can be useful in obtaining a clear drink without pulp or bits of leaves.

Benefits of Using Pourers for Accuracy and Consistency

Pour spouts or pourers fit securely on top of liquor bottles and allow for accurate measurement while pouring. They also help to increase speed and consistency when preparing multiple drinks at once. Without pour spouts, it can be difficult to control the flow of alcohol accurately.

The use of pour spouts also reduces spillage and waste while ensuring that each drink contains the exact amount needed. This feature ensures that customers receive consistent quality every time which helps increase their satisfaction levels.

Recommended Brands for Both Strainers and Pourers

When it comes to purchasing bartending tools, investing in high-quality brands will ensure longevity and durability. For topnotch pour spouts, Precision Pour is known for its consistent accuracy in measuring pours while reducing spills.

Other popular options include OXO Good Grips Steel Cocktail Strainer, Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Cocktail Strainer Set by HomeHero Kitchen and Platinum Cocktail Strainers by Uber Bar Tools. For bartenders looking for premium quality double-strained cocktails with ease should consider Bellemain cocktail muddler & mixing spoon set which comes with a fine mesh strainer or the Cocktail Kingdom Premium Stainless Steel Double Strainer known for its excellent build quality and perfect grip handle.

When it comes to bartending tools, having the right equipment is essential for creating high-quality cocktails. Investing in top-rated brands will ensure that you have a long-lasting set of tools that will not only make your job easier but also impress your guests.

Muddlers, Peelers, and Zesters

Exploring the Art of Mixology: How Muddlers are Used in Making Cocktails

Muddling is a popular technique used by mixologists to extract flavor and aroma from fresh ingredients such as fruits, herbs, and spices. A muddler is a tool that is used to crush or smash these ingredients in a glass or shaker. Using this tool correctly can enhance the taste of cocktails significantly.

When muddling, it’s essential to choose the right type of muddler for the job. There are different types of muddlers designed for specific purposes – including blunt-ended ones for delicate herbs and fine-pointed ones for releasing juice from citrus peels.

It’s also important to use the right technique when muddling. Over-mixing can lead to bitterness that negatively affects the final product.

Benefits of Owning a Peeler or Zester When Crafting Cocktails

Peelers and zesters may not seem like essential tools in bartending at first glance, but they play a crucial role in adding flavor and texture to drinks. Peeling citrus fruits allows bartenders access to flavorful oils in their skin while zesting adds aroma by removing only the outermost layer of peel. A good quality peeler can make all the difference when preparing citrus garnishes such as twists or spirals without damaging fruit flesh.

Zesters come in different shapes and sizes depending on its intended use; some have razor-sharp edges designed specifically for shaving off thin strips of zest while others have wider ends that allow you to scoop larger curls. These seemingly small items are worth owning if you want to create cocktails with advanced techniques like flame-zesting – where flaming citrus oils add both flavor and spectacle.

Conclusion

Bartending requires skill, patience, and the right tools. By investing in quality muddlers, peelers, and zesters you can take your mixology skills to the next level.

These tools allow you to extract more flavor from your ingredients while adding visual appeal to your cocktails through creative garnishes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new ingredients and techniques when crafting drinks – but remember to take your time and pay attention to the details.

With a little practice, you’ll be able to create cocktails that look and taste like they were made by a professional bartender. Cheers!