One of the most important things in your home has to be a well-stocked bar. Especially if you like cocktails, it is key to have the right tools along with the right alcohol to make the perfect drinks. Here are some essentials you need to have that perfectly stocked home bar.
First, you have to make sure that you have the right bar tools. A shaker tin is always a must and it is best to have a 22 oz. and a 16 oz. one. Another thing to have two of is a strainer, a Hawthorne strainer and a Julep strainer. The Julep strainer works great with your mixing glass and the Hawthorne strainer pairs well with your shaker tin. Just don’t use the Hawthorne strainer to put mint in your cocktails; it is easier to use the Julep strainer. You also need to have a muddler, jigger, bar spoon and a mixing glass.
On top of the right tools, you need to make sure you have the right glassware. You can’t have a cocktail without a glass. A shot glass is one glass you absolutely have to have because it can be used in a number of ways to prepare your drinks. Also make sure you are well stocked with plenty of wine glasses and always have regular wine glasses and stemless ones. A Collins glass that holds more than 12 oz. is another must have for your bar.
Now that you have the right tools and glasses, you need to have the right liquor. Try to have a couple different options of gin because it actually does make your cocktail taste different when you use different kinds. Rum is another drink you need to have two of because you need to have silver rum one that is aged. It isn’t good to make cocktails with a brandy that has been aged too much so look for a cognac that is only about 10 years old. Always have plenty of Vermouth on hand and try to keep it in the refrigerator to make it last longer. Lastly, it is always a nice treat to have Triple Sec and tequila that is 100% agave; and of course, your favorite alcohol.