There’s nothing quite like having your own home bar. It’s a place where you can channel your inner mixologist, impress guests with your cocktail prowess, or simply unwind with a well-crafted drink after a long day. But to make your home bar truly shine, you need the right tools and, of course, a carefully curated selection of liquor.
In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials you need to build a fantastic home bar, from the must-have liquor bottles that serve as your foundation to the tools that help you mix, shake, and stir your way to cocktail perfection.
Must-Have Liquor Bottles
No home bar is complete without a selection of essential liquor bottles. These are the building blocks of countless classic cocktails and are versatile for mixing a wide array of drinks. Here are the must-have bottles to get you started:
Vodka
A versatile and neutral spirit that’s a key ingredient in many cocktails, from Martinis to Moscow Mules. Look for good craft beer to go along with your other collection.
Gin
Essential for classic cocktails like the Gin and Tonic, Martini, and Negroni.
Rum
Both light and dark rum are valuable additions, used in tropical drinks like the Mojito and classic cocktails like the Daiquiri.
Whiskey
A cornerstone of many classic cocktails, whiskey (bourbon, rye, or Scotch) is used in Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Whiskey Sours. Add some drinks from Premium Scotch Liquor Sales to your home bar.
Tequila
A must for Margaritas and other tequila-based cocktails.
Bitters
While not a bottle to consume on its own, bitters like Angostura add depth and complexity to various cocktails.
Vital Bar Tools
With the right liquor bottles in your collection, it’s time to focus on the tools of the trade. These essential bar tools will make your home bar experience smoother and more enjoyable:
Cocktail Shaker
A cocktail shaker is a must for mixing and chilling your drinks. Opt for a two-piece Boston shaker or a three-piece cobbler shaker for ease of use.
Jigger
A jigger is a small measuring cup that ensures precise measurements when pouring liquor. It’s indispensable for consistent and well-balanced cocktails.
Bar Spoon
A long-handled bar spoon is excellent for stirring cocktails without damaging the ingredients or diluting them too quickly.
Strainer
Use a strainer to filter out ice, fruit pulp, or other unwanted elements when pouring your mixed cocktails into a glass.
Muddler
This handy tool is essential for mashing fruits, herbs, or sugar cubes when making drinks like Mojitos or Old Fashioneds.
Citrus Juicer or Reamer
Freshly squeezed citrus juice is a game-changer in cocktails. A juicer or reamer is perfect for extracting every drop of flavour from your lemons, limes, and oranges.
Ice Bucket and Tongs
Keep your ice fresh and easily accessible with an ice bucket and tongs, essential for any cocktail bar.
Glassware
Invest in a set of essential glassware, including highball glasses, rocks glasses, Martini glasses, and stemmed wine glasses to suit various cocktail types.
Cocktail Straws and Picks
Add a touch of sophistication to your drinks with cocktail straws and picks for garnishes.
Cutting Board and Knife
A small cutting board and a sharp knife are crucial for slicing garnishes like citrus wedges and fruit twists.