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Enjoying a well-crafted cocktail in the comfort of your home is a luxury for those who have the space to accommodate a home bar. To create the ultimate at-home experience, having more than just a collection of bottles and mixers, is necessary to make it your own. Creating the ultimate home bar is to choose the right spot so that it affords easy access to you and any guests you might entertain. Ideally, having it in a space you can comfortably entertain without crowding the room can ensure there is adequate space for storage, mixing drinks, and seating.
Glassware
Around 80-90% of taste is actually based on the aroma and presentation of a drink and hence, the shape and size of your glass can change how effective this can be. To enjoy your cocktails to the fullest, invest in a set of quality glassware. Start off with a few highball glasses, martini and wine glasses, as well as decanters to pour spirits from. Invest in crystal glassware to add a touch of elegance to your home bar.
Stock Basics
Similar to kitchens, every home bar needs a set of basic ingredients and tools. A collection of good quality spirits, few cocktail mixing tools and a fridge to keep ice or other fresh ingredients is an absolute essential. Although not overflowing, build a collection of spirits, liqueurs and mixers over a few years of experimentation to see what works to your taste.
Have Enough Ice
Nothing is quite as off-putting as lukewarm cocktail, which can be fixed by making sure to have a good supply of ice on hand. Use ice cube trays for regular ice cubes and invest in an ice bucket or ice maker for larger gatherings. Clear ice cubes, which are denser and slower to melt, are ideal for cocktails. Experiment by freezing fruits and using them as edible ice cubes in drinks.
Storage Solutions
Besides making everything look organized and tidy, having storage space within your home bar space can impact the quality of your liquor over time, based on the exposure to sunlight, heat or humidity. Purchase a sturdy and stylish liquor cabinet or shelving unit to line up your bottles or a rack for your collection of wines and a fridge to keep them at the right temperature.
Mixers & Garnishes
Having a handful of mixers and garnishes handy can allow you to use your stock of spirits in a versatile manner – over a variety of libations. stock up your bar with a variety of sodas, tonic water as well as a selection of basic fruit juices. If possible, keep a supply of common fresh garnishes such as lemons slices, orange peel twists, maraschino cherries and olives to enhance the flavour of your cocktails and make them visually appealing.
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Bar Tools
While fancy tools aren’t too important to whip up a cocktail, they can surely get the job done quicker. Create a set using cocktail shaker and a jigger for precise measuring as well as a strainer. Eventually, add a muddler and a bar spoon to complete the set since they are vital for mixing, shaking and stirring your drinks with finesse. Opt for additional touches like ice moulds or metal chilling stones if you prefer a sophisticated touch.
Lighting
To create an enjoyable experience, install appropriate lighting or wall sconces, for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding some mirrors, plants or a bar counter to enhance the aesthetics of the space. If a seating area is something you choose to have, pick barstools or lounge chairs that complement the style of your space with cushions or throws for extra comfort.
