Everything you'll need to start Quarantine Bartending.
As COVID-19 traps us all in our homes in fear, one essential service that we seem to lean on in crisis is our LIQUOR. And while I would never condone turning to substance during your troubles…
We’ve been locked in the crib for over 3 weeks now and I think we deserve a cocktail or two.
All the recipes and lessons I’ve been posting are sure to help you newly interested home bartenders, but what do you need to get started? More specifically, what are the ABSOLUTE NECESSARY items to make basic cocktails at home? Cause let’s face it, buying a bunch of new toys in this economy? Not for me.
Here’s a list of the essential bar tools and ingredients you’ll want to get started (and some non essential for the BIG BALLERS out there).
1. A Shaker and a Strainer.
No way around this one. Not only are there very little substitutes (you can use a protein blender bottle or a nutribullet) but this can also double as your mixing glass (for stirred cocktails) and fits a strainer.
You can buy from our matte collection here.
2. A Jigger.
A measuring tool that has set lines for you to measure from 0.25oz all the way to 2oz. Definitely necessary to make accurate cocktails. The link I provided is a japanese style jigger that is 1 and 2oz sided with lines that measure down to 0.5 oz. It also comes in many different styles and colors all from that link!
3. A Bar Spoon
It’s difficult to find anything in your home that has the same functionality as a bar spoon. It’s long handle and curves make it the ideal stirring tool. Also if you plan on bartending for real after this, you’ll want to get some practice in to master your stir. Highly recommend this one. Affordable, stylish, and quality.
4. Muddler (Optional)
This one is definitely not necessary cause you can use anything in your kitchen with a flat end to muddle fruits or herbs in your shaker.
However for some of you that would rather spend the money on a proper set. Here you go! When it comes to muddlers, there’s only one that I will EVER use. And if you bartend you know how much having a bad muddler can suck. This one is the ultimate muddling tool.
5. Mixing Glass (Optional)
I’m a big advocate for always stirring in a mixing glass but like I mentioned before, everyone’s pockets might not be as fat as they used to be. Your shaker tins can double as a mixing glass in the meantime. Here are a couple different styles to choose from.
6. Angostura Bitters (Optional)
These are a key ingredient in many classic cocktails. Also can be added to add extra OOMPH to some of your favorite recipes. However you can omit this one out your Amazon cart if you wanna save funds
7. Mason Jars (Optional)
If you wanna start experimenting with syrups and infusions that I put out on my socials. Then you may wanna invest in a pack of these mason jars. Totally optional though, any vessel that can carry liquid will do.