Tools of the Trade
A well stocked bar means more then just having the right spirits on hand, it also means having the proper tools at your disposal for mixing your cocktails just right.
In the following list, I'll try to identify and describe as many different tools as might be usefull to have in your bar. Many of these of course will only be needed on rare occasions, if at all.
If you are just a beginner, and are wanting to collect just the bare essentials, I would recommend that you first start out with the following implements:
Cocktail Shaker,
Jigger,
Strainer,
Bar Spoon,
Juicer,
Muddler
If you are trying to get a "Bar Tool Set" as a gift, then I would also recommend that you add to this set a book of cocktail recipes. Check out some of the books I list on my Wad-O-Drinks listing from the "Library" for some of the books I recommend. Note that the "Mr. Bostons" books don't get high marks from me.
Here is my list of different bar tools you might want for your bar. When I can locate an on-line company that appears to sell a product that I can recommend, I'll try to include a direct link to that company/product on the associated page.
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Doubles as both measuring spoon and stir rod.
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For those spirits that you are constantly using, this is a must
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For when those screw tops are getting to annoy you.
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Nothing can replace a good quality cocktail shaker
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Get one you are comfortable using
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Large enough to be useful, small enough to not get in your way
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A noisy addition to any bar, but useful to have on hand for certain cocktails
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Nothing in a bottle can replace the Quality of fresh fruit juice in a cocktail.
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A bar without glassware? What were you thinking?
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Useful for a small self hosted bar, but think Ice Tub if you're doing anything bigger
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Normal Ice Cubes are too big for cocktails
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You never have enough fresh ice
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A must for those of us who aren't experienced enough to accurately measure with a speed-pour
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A good juicer is one that is easy to use
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Not all drinks are shaken, some are best stirred
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A good muddler is important. Make sure it is long enough
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Usefull for soaking up misty glasses
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For cutting orange slices, lemon zests, quartering limes
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A plastic bottle of club soda will do, but a soda siphon on the shelf at least looks impressive
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Don't even think of trying to strain a cocktail through your fingers
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We're not just talking long straws here. Get some good solid ones for your guests to use
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