HOME BAR ESSENTIALS

1. High Quality Alcohol -  you are going to want your high quality liquors at arms reach (ps. high quality doesn't mean high price tag). There are several delicious cocktail spirits under the $20 mark that hold up great in a well-prepared cocktail. The top essential spirits I would pick for my bar are a bourbon (old-fashioned), gin (salty dog), vodka (dirty martini) and tequila (margarita).  These four spirits make up 99.9% of my core cocktails.  However, these basic spirits will need some supporting players when it comes to taking your cocktails to the next level.  

Here are a few examples: amaretto (amaretto sour), kahlua (white russian) and/or one of my favorites, cointreau (lemon drop martini). 

2. Shaker, Strainer & Jigger - these are the most important bar tools you will need.  All the other tools are not necessary but can definitely be nice to have if you enjoy creating cocktails. When buying a shaker, I highly recommend two piece shakers (as pictured).  They are more durable and create a tight seal so no mess to clean up.  The one con is that if you don't use them a lot they can be tricky to get apart.  The strainer is important because the ice that you shake the cocktail in will be watered down so you'll want to strain your cocktail into a fresh glass of ice. Now about that jigger...you should always follow a recipes measurements by using a jigger.  If you don't, you are completely changing how that cocktail should taste. 

3. Bitters - You will need good quality bitters on hand. Angostura bitters are my go to, they are very versatile and add an extra layer of flavor.

4. Cocktail Glasses - Nothing is worse then making a great cocktail and then pouring it into a plastic cup.  That's a no no! LOL But in all seriousness, there are so many affordable glassware options out there(here, here, here & here). 

5. Fresh Squeezed Citrus - Please, please, please squeeze your own citrus! It makes a world of difference in the taste and flavor of your cocktails.   

6. Tonic or Sparkling Water - A lot of cocktails have you top off with either a tonic or sparkling water so it's always nice to have these on hand.  To me, it doesn't matter if it's a nice name brand or generic.  I've never noticed a taste difference.