Essential Guide to Setting Up the Ultimate Home Bar

This week, one of the Cocktails with Friends Hotline callers asked Bob Cutler, owner of Novio’s and host of Cocktails with Friends, about what she needed to create delicious, bar-quality cocktails at home.  Here’s everything you need to get started, from essential tools to pro tips for selecting ingredients. This was only one of the many topics covered on this week’s podcast. You’ll have to listen in for more.

1. Core Tools Every Home Bar Needs

Basic Set Essentials: Start with a classic cocktail shaker, bar spoon, strainer, and jigger (Bob recommends the essentials set from Cocktail Kingdom).

Additional Equipment: Invest in a quality muddler, mixing glass, citrus juicer, and bottle opener. Once you have the basics, these tools will help you diversify your cocktail menu.

2. Glassware Basics for Every Occasion

Key Glass Types: Stock up on a few types that cover most cocktails, like rocks glasses, highballs, and coupes.

Choosing Quality over Quantity: A few versatile, good-quality pieces will elevate the presentation and experience without cluttering your cabinet.

3. Essential Ingredients for Classic Cocktails

Spirits to Start With: Bob suggests starting with versatile spirits like vodka, gin, whiskey, tequila, and rum for classic cocktail recipes.

Mixers and Liqueurs: Keep essentials like dry vermouth, triple sec, and Campari to create a variety of cocktails without an overwhelming collection.

Fresh Ingredients: Don’t forget fresh citrus (lemon and lime are must-haves), and consider small-batch syrups and bitters to add depth.

4. Tips for Building on Basics Over Time

Expand Your Tools as Skills Grow: As you get more comfortable, add tools like a fine-mesh strainer or a garnish peeler to experiment with more advanced techniques.

Experiment with Limited-Release Gear and Specialty Ingredients: Explore seasonal releases or unique ingredients, such as artisanal syrups and premium bitters, to bring something extra to your bar.

5. Resources for Learning More

Educational Resources: Consider checking out episodes like Season 1, Episode 7: Building Your Home Bar, where Bob goes deeper into setting up your home bar and shares more insider tips.

Quality Sources for Tools and Ingredients: Cocktail Kingdom offers a wide range of high-quality tools and ingredients for both novice and professional mixologists.

This is only a taste of the questions answered in this week’s Hotline edition of Cocktails with Friends. If you have a cocktail question for Bob – call 207-814-0177. Listen to the full podcast here or on your favorite platform.