Cocktails are a popular trend these days, meaning that every bar is equipped with different accessories and good quality ingredients used to create tasty and well-balanced drinks.
Whether you are more of a “free pour” type or you’d rather precisely measure every centilitre of your drinks, our team at Vinum has selected the essential cocktail tools you’ll need to create mixology kit worthy of the greatest bartenders!
Bar accessories that compose a mixology set
The first thing you need to do when creating a mixology kit is to choose bar accessories that you are comfortable using. Remember that what makes a good cocktail is above all a bartender who can use their tools correctly.
Let's review the essential bar tools to assemble your mixology kit.
A good shaker: an essential cocktail tool
The shaker, also called a cocktail shaker, is the signature tool for a successful cocktail. It is used to mix the ingredients while chilling them (a good amount of ice is essential for a well-chilled drink). What makes for a good set of cocktail shakers will depend on the person using it. There are 2 main types of shaker: the Boston shaker and the Cobbler shaker.
Boston shaker
The Boston shaker is made of two interlocking components, one made of metal and the other of glass. This is the most popular type of shaker, because of its large volume capacity and ease of handling. However, this shaker must be completed by a strainer.
Cobbler shaker
The Cobbler shaker is a classic three-piece shaker. It is the shaker most commonly seen in the James Bond films and is therefore associated with the history of martini in popular culture. It is easy to use, as it doesn't require an additional strainer and already has a filter built into one of its three parts. It will be very useful for those who want to make do with the minimum, as in most cases it has a measure in the smallest part of the shaker.
Use a jigger for good measure
Nothing beats the consistent pouring of the famous cocktail jigger to ensure a perfectly balanced cocktail. If you have a Boston shaker (which does not have a built-in measuring device), we recommend purchasing this essential cocktail tool to complete your mixology kit. A jigger will allow you to measure the exact volume of spirits you need for your cocktail.
A cocktail jigger is very easy to use: the smaller cup holds one measure, the other holds twice that amount. Available in gold, copper or steel, there's something for everyone, and if you don't have time to buy one, a kitchen scale or shot glass will do the trick.
Mixing glass and bar spoon: the perfect combo
Not every cocktail is made to be shaken. For example, adding sparkling water to your cocktail is best done with a gentle stir. You can "shake" the mixture without the sparkling water and then add it back in, or you can take the easy way out and use a mixing glass and bar spoon.
Cocktail strainer for straining ice cubes and seeds
The strainer is an essential cocktail tool for any self-respecting bartender. There are two different sizes: the Julep strainer and the Hawthorne strainer. The first is more practical when using a mixing glass while the second is easier to use with a shaker.
In any case, this helpful tool will give an impeccable finish to your drinks.
Other essential tools for a home cocktail kit
For those who want to spare no expense, you can complete your mixology kit with these tools that will help you make your cocktails even better.
Pick up a citrus press or a zester. They can be useful to easily collect the juice and zest of your fruits and vegetables.
An ice tapper will be your best friend when you need to make 10 mojitos in the shortest time possible.
Essential ingredients for a cocktail kit
Without going into too much detail about the ingredients available for great cocktails – since we could go on for hours! – there are a few must-haves that should be mentioned.
Cocktail syrups
Cocktail syrups are all the rage, with more and more local craft companies coming up with delicious artisanal syrups! Syrups will add flavor as well as sweet notes to the cocktail.
Simple syrups and bar mixes are must-haves when it comes to cocktail creation. The first is a portion of sugar dissolved in water, with citrus juice (lime or lemon) added to create the second. Simple enough to make, these syrups are even better fresh.
For tonic syrups or syrups with a more distinctive taste, visit our Montreal, Quebec City and Toronto locations to discover the different flavors, ranging from bitter to sweet, sour, herbaceous and fresh.
Bitters
Bitters are ingredients that enhance the different flavours of your cocktails with just a few drops. You can almost think of them as liquid spices. In fact, you can also use them for cooking! With a wide variety of flavours, ranging from hibiscus and mocha to citrus, cardamom, rustic spices and smoky aromas, it is a world to discover!
Originally used as medical infusions, bitters have developed over time to take the world of cocktails by storm. Despite their often high alcohol percentage (around 50%), bitters are not considered as alcoholic beverages since they are usually only used in small quantities. They are therefore available over the counter in Quebec. Come visit us in one of our stores to taste our different bitters and find out which are your favourites!
Build the perfect cocktail kit with Vinum Design
Now that you know how to make your own cocktail kit, you can get creative and have fun with it! Experiment with different flavors and cocktail ingredients to find the perfect combinations.
And don't forget the accessories - a stylish cocktail shaker or cocktail glass can really enhance your mixology experience. With a little practice, you'll be able to create delicious cocktails that will impress your friends. Cheers!
