Must-Have Home Bar Tools for Cocktail Enthusiasts

There's nothing better than enjoying a homemade cocktail that tastes like it was made professionally at a high-end bar or restaurant. If you're a cocktail enthusiast actively chasing that fresh, feel-good taste—we're here to help. 

We create a list of must-have homecocktail toolsevery cocktail lover needs in their home bar. With this set of home bar tools, you can level up your cocktail game and savor every sip of your homemade cocktail creations. 

Here's a breakdown of the essential cocktail tools:

Core Home Bar Tools

Whether you're just building out your home bar or searching for gifts for cocktail lovers,here's what you'll need to get started:

1. Shaker

A high-quality shaker is designed to help you make mixed drinks. The preferred shaker for mixologists is a stainless steel vessel. These options are durable enough to last years in your home bar. You can also consider a glass cocktail shaker if you want something more aesthetically pleasing. 

2. Jigger 

A jigger is a double-sided shot glass. This essential cocktail tool features the standard measurements used in bars. One side is usually 1.5 oz., and the other is 1 oz. This is a must-have for any home bar to ensure you don't over (or under!) pour your alcohol.

3. Stirring Spoon

Many beverages and fancy cocktails can't be made in a shaker. For these cocktails, you'll need to use a stirring spoon. With a stirring spoon on hand, you can elevate your cocktail game and make a next-level luxury drink like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. 

Essential Cocktail Tools

Once you have the basics, it's time to build out your home bar with otheressential cocktail tools.These four tools aren't always a "must-have" but more of a "like to have" for inspiring home bartenders and cocktail lovers. 

1. Muddler

Who doesn't love fresh fruit, mint, or herbs in their cocktails? With a muddler, you can crush fresh ingredients and add them to your favorite drinks. This is a great way to get the most from aromatic ingredients you want to add to your cocktails. 

2. Citrus Press

A citrus press is another essential cocktail tool to consider. This tool is designed to juice lemons and limes. It's a must-have to ensure you always have fresh citrus juice to add to your drinks, and you can get every last drop from your fresh lemons and limes. 

3. Ice Tongs

A homemade cocktail isn't complete without the next-level presentation. With ice tongs, you can add ice to your favorite cocktail glasses and present your favorite homemade creations like a true mixologist. 

Glassware Every Bar Needs

Once you have all theessential cocktail tools you need to make the cocktails, it's time to work on your presentation. While the glassware in your home bar might not add to the taste, it does add to the experience. 

Here are the top five glassware items you should consider adding to your home bar:

1. Martini Glass 

Whether it's an Espresso Martini or a Classic Dry Martini, you'll need at least a few martini glasses in your collection. A classic martini glass prevents the ingredients commonly found in martinis from spreading. The sloped edges are also perfect for adding traditional martini garnishes like olives or garlic. 

2. Old Fashioned Glass

An old-fashioned glass is considered a type of lowball glass. These glasses feature a short tumbler, perfect for serving whiskey neat or on the rock. 

3. Coupe Glass

A coupe glass is a great option to have on hand for Daiquiris, Cosmopolitans, or a Sidecar. This is a cocktail glass for drinks served chilled or shaken with ice. Since these drinks are typically not on ice, the stem of the coupe glass helps keep the drinks cool while you sip on your cocktail. 

4. Shot Glasses

Can't have an at-home bar set up without at least one set of shot glasses. Shot glasses are a great gift for cocktail lovers, entertainers, and anyone who loves a great spirit. They come in various styles, shapes, and sizes, so you can find an option that complements your aesthetic. 

5. Collins Glass

A Collins glass is commonly referred to as a highball glass. This type of glass is ideal for cocktails served on ice, like Mint Juleps, Mai Tais, and Long Island Iced Teas. Collins glasses come in various textures and styles, making them a wonderfulgift for mixologistsand cocktail lovers. 

Best Gifts for Cocktail Lovers

Are you searching forcocktail supplies for the cocktail lovers in your life? Here are three options to consider:

1. High-Quality Spirits 

You can't make great cocktails without great spirits. One of the bestgifts for cocktail loversis a high-quality spirit they can use to make their favorite cocktails. A great starter spirit to consider isIGNITE Vodka. This premium cocktail is slightly sweet and smooth. It's the perfect go-to for a Martini, White Russian, or a Bloody Mary.

2. Decanter 

Decanters are vessels designed to hold whiskey or wine. Decanters with an open top expose the wine to oxidation and help your wine "breathe." While decanters with a stopper slow the oxidation process, preserving the rich flavors of your favorite whiskeys. The best part? They look great on a bar cart.

3. Cocktail Tool Set

Whether they make cocktails on the weekend for fun or want to get more serious about mixology, you can't go wrong with a high-qualitycocktail tool set. These sets typically feature everything an individual needs to make any cocktail they want from the comfort of their home. It's best to look for an option with a shaker, jigger, and stirring spoon. 

Best Gifts for a Mixologists

If the mixed drink lover in your life knows their way around the bar, it's time to level up theircocktail supplies to ensure they have a professional at-home setup. 

Here's our top three picks:

1.IGNITE Spirits

Our premium tequila and vodka are a must-have to include in your at-home bar setup. They make great gifts for the holidays and are sure to be used and appreciated for months to come. 

If you're searching for a high-endgift for a mixologist, we recommend ourTequila 3 Pack. This gift set explores the varying flavors of Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo tequila. It's a must-have for any seasoned tequila enthusiast!

2. Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino cherries are a cocktail delight that the mixologist in your life might not have on hand. These are a must-have finishing touch for luxury cocktails like Manhattans and Old Fashioneds. We recommend pairing these with their favorite spirit for a complete gift they'll use and love. 

3. Matching Set of Cocktail Glasses

You can't go wrong with a set of high-quality cocktail glasses, whether it's for martinis, Old Fashioneds, or Long Island Iced Teas. The mixologist in your life can never have enough glasses at their at-home bar.

Essential Spirits For Every Home Bar from IGNITE Spirits

IGNITE Spirits are in a league of their own. OurIGNITE Tequlia and Vodka are made with premium ingredients, ensuring every sip is as great as the last. While you shop for must-havecocktail supplies and look forgifts for cocktail lovers,ensure you have the spirits to complement your at-home setup. 

Explore our selection of spirits today.