When you’re starting out in the world of bartending, mixology, or even if you’re just experimenting at home, choosing the right cocktail equipment can feel overwhelming. At Dublin Bar Academy, I’ve seen students ask the same questions time and time again: What equipment do I really need? What’s worth investing in? And where can I get high-quality tools? This guide will break it down for you so you can focus on essentials that elevate your skills and find reliable places to source quality tools.
The Essentials: Building Your Basic Kit
To start, you don’t need an arsenal of tools; you need high-quality basics. Below are the key pieces I recommend for anyone beginning in cocktail-making:
1. Cocktail Shakers
There are two main types of shakers: the Boston shaker (two-piece) and the Cobbler shaker (three-piece).
- Boston Shaker: This is a favorite among professional bartenders. It’s fast, efficient, and can handle larger quantities.
- Cobbler Shaker: This one has a built-in strainer, which can be convenient for beginners, but it’s sometimes trickier to separate after shaking.
Pro Tip: Stainless steel shakers are your best bet—they’re durable, conduct temperature well, and won’t affect the taste of your drinks.
2. Jiggers
Precise measurements are key to a well-balanced cocktail, and that’s where jiggers come in. A double-sided jigger, like a 25 ml/50 ml combination, is versatile enough to cover most recipes. However, always double-check your jigger to ensure the measurements are accurate. Since jiggers are mass-produced, sometimes the actual volume might not be consistent. It’s a good idea to compare your jigger to a measuring cup or scale when you first get it, so you can be confident that your measurements are precise every time.
3. Mixing Glass
If you’re stirring cocktails, like martinis or Negronis, a sturdy mixing glass with a pour spout is essential.
4. Strainers
There are three types you’ll use often:
- Hawthorne Strainer: Used with shakers, it has a coiled spring to catch ice and pulp.
- Julep Strainer: Works best with mixing glasses.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: Essential for catching small bits of fruit, herbs, or ice shards in shaken drinks.
5. Bar Spoon
Bar spoons are different from regular spoons, with a long handle and spiral design that helps with stirring cocktails smoothly. Look for one with a twisted stem for a better grip.
6. Muddler
For cocktails with fresh ingredients like mojitos or old fashioneds, you’ll need a muddler to release flavors. Wooden muddlers are classic, but stainless steel or food-grade plastic versions are easy to clean.
7. Ice Tools
Never underestimate the role of ice. Ice crushers, ice molds, and ice picks can give you greater control over how your drinks are served and chilled.
8. Citrus Juicer/Press
Freshly squeezed citrus juice can make or break a cocktail. A handheld citrus press is easy to use and compact. Look for one with stainless steel parts for durability.
Upgrades to Consider as You Grow
When you’re ready to take your cocktail & mixology equipment to the next level, consider advanced tools like Japanese jiggers and professional-grade shakers.
- Atomizer: For cocktails that need a light spray of flavor (think absinthe for a Sazerac).
- Electric Blender: Great for frozen cocktails.
- Japanese Jigger: If you love precision, Japanese-style jiggers come in more varied measurements and offer greater accuracy.
- Mixology Glassware: Serving your drinks in proper glassware is essential. Invest in a few different types, such as coupe glasses, highballs, and rocks glasses.
Advanced Mixology Equipment
As you advance in mixology, you’ll encounter more sophisticated tools that allow you to refine your craft and experiment with innovative techniques. These are tools you’ll typically see in high-end bars and cocktail labs:
1. Sous Vide Machine (SV Machine)
Sous Vide is a cooking method that uses precise temperature control to extract delicate flavors over a longer period of time. In the world of cocktails, a sous vide machine can be used to infuse spirits with fruit, herbs, or spices at a much higher level of precision than traditional infusing methods. You can set the temperature to ensure your infusion extracts exactly the right flavors without any bitterness.
Where to Source: Available through advanced barware suppliers such as 100% Barman, this equipment allows you to experiment with new techniques.
2. CentiCook
The CentiCook is an advanced equipment tool used for infusions, batch cocktails, or even rapid cooling of drinks. It’s popular for making cold brew-style coffee infusions or quick citrus peels, extracting deep flavors rapidly. It’s also used to create alcohol-based syrups that are often needed in the high-end cocktail world.
Where to Source: Check out suppliers like 100% Barman for high-quality mixology-specific gadgets like this.
3. Squasher
The Squasher is a tool designed for precise control over citrus, fruit, and herb extraction. It’s great for making clear, clean cocktails where the purity of the ingredients is crucial. It uses pressure to release juice without breaking up the ingredients, making it a great tool for cocktails that need to maintain a clean finish.
Where to Source: Available through high-end mixology shops like 100% Barman, where professionals source cutting-edge equipment.
What to Focus on When Choosing Equipment
Quality Over Quantity
My advice? Focus on quality, especially for your frequently used tools. A solid stainless steel shaker, a well-balanced jigger, and a sharp knife will make cocktail-making smoother and more enjoyable.
Materials Matter
Food-safe, rust-proof stainless steel is generally the best material for most tools. Glass mixing vessels should be durable, so go for thick, lead-free glass.
Ergonomics
Find tools that feel comfortable to handle. If you’re using a muddler or shaker daily, it should be easy to grip and manipulate without straining.
Sourcing: Where to Find High-Quality Cocktail Equipment
The right cocktail & mixology equipment is essential for mastering your craft. Sourcing high-quality tools can make a significant difference.
For Students in Dublin: Local Shops
Support local businesses by shopping at reputable kitchenware or bartending stores in Dublin. Stockists such as Brown Thomas and Kitchen Whisk offer quality tools that are bartender-approved.
Online Options
If you prefer online shopping, here are a few trusted sites that supply reliable, professional-grade cocktail tools:
- Cocktail Kingdom – Known for top-quality bar tools used by professionals worldwide.
- Amazon – While not everything is premium quality, there are well-reviewed brands for budget-friendly finds.
- BarProducts.com – Offers a range of bar tools, including exclusive items.
Specialty Suppliers
Once you’re ready to invest in high-end tools or unique items like antique barware, specialty suppliers like Vintage Roots and Urban Bar are worth exploring.
Maintaining Your Cocktail Equipment
Taking care of your tools will keep them working like new and extend their lifespan.
- Regular Cleaning: Rinse shakers, jiggers, and spoons immediately after use. For stainless steel, avoid harsh detergents.
- Dry Thoroughly: Moisture can lead to rust or stains, even on high-quality stainless steel.
- Polish Glassware: Keep your glassware sparkling by polishing with a lint-free cloth.
- Avoid Dishwasher for Certain Tools: Not all tools are dishwasher-safe, so check if they’re labeled for handwashing only.
Enhancing Your Skill Set
Having the right tools is only part of the equation. Mastering techniques like shaking, stirring, and muddling can take your cocktails to a new level. At Dublin Bar Academy, we cover these techniques in our 2-Day Cocktail & Mixology Course, giving you hands-on practice with professional-grade tools. Additionally, the 4-Day Cocktail Programme dives deeper into advanced equipment and techniques.
For more practical advice and tips on working with cocktail equipment, check out Cocktail Enthusiast or Liquor.com for expert opinions on tools and drink-making.
Final Thoughts: Curate a Kit That Matches Your Style
When selecting equipment, let your personal bartending style guide you. If you enjoy classic cocktails, invest in timeless tools like a Boston shaker and Japanese jigger. For tiki-inspired drinks, consider tools for creating crushed ice or exotic garnishes.
With a solid foundation of tools, you’ll feel prepared to tackle any cocktail recipe. If you’re looking for more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out or check out our latest blog posts at Dublin Bar Academy Blog.
Whether you’re starting with basic tools or investing in advanced cocktail & mixology equipment, quality tools are crucial for honing your bartending skills.
Useful Links:
Cocktail Kingdom – https://www.cocktailkingdom.com
Amazon – https://www.amazon.com
BarProducts.com – https://www.barproducts.com
Vintage Roots – https://www.vintage-roots.co.uk
Urban Bar – https://www.urbanbar.com
Cocktail Enthusiast – https://www.cocktailenthusiast.com
Liquor.com – https://www.liquor.com
100x100chef (for SV machines, CentriCook, Squasher) – https://www.100x100chef.com