Whether you’re a cocktail lover or simply a host who wants to offer the best to your guests, having good bartending equipment can make all the difference. From the precision in measuring ingredients to the aesthetic presentation of your creations, every detail counts. Here are the essentials for the perfect little home bartender.
Invest in a beer tap for always cold drinks
A beer tap lets you discover the authentic taste of draft beer. The drink preserves its freshness and unique flavors. It is also an economical way to consume beer. This solution may be less expensive in the long run, but it also saves space in the refrigerator. Plus, it’s an environmentally friendly choice, as you no longer need to use bottles and cans. Like the PerfectDraft Pro, many pieces of equipment offer perfect control of beverage quality and greater convenience in serving.
To choose a beer tap, you need to take stock of your needs. You should also choose your equipment according to your favorite beer because some brands offer machines specially designed for their drinks. The storage capacity of the beer tap is also an essential factor to consider. If you plan to use it frequently or for special occasions, a machine with a larger capacity is more suitable. Furthermore, the size of the barrels is also important. Value for money is important to make a good choice. You must focus on durable and accessible equipment at a reasonable price.
A mixologist kit: create your cocktails
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you can find a mixologist kit that will perfectly meet your needs. Having your equipment at home allows you to improve your bartending skills. With your kit, you can create a fun and engaging activity for evenings with friends or family. Everyone can try making their signature cocktail with the equipment and ingredients available. The initial investment is higher, but in the long run, making your cocktails at home can be more cost-effective than shopping at a bar or restaurant. Having a home mixology kit gives you the freedom to customize your drinks to your specific tastes. This significantly improves the tasting experience.
A good mixology kit includes a shaker, mixing spoon, jigger, muddler, and other essential tools. This gives you everything you need to prepare a wide variety of cocktails and experiment a lot. Some kits even have recipes printed on the side of the shaker, which can be very helpful for a beginner.
When purchasing mixology equipment, one must ensure that the kit contains all the necessary tools for preparing the desired cocktails. Next, you have to take a look at the quality of the materials. Are they durable and easy to clean? Also, consider your level of expertise. A beginner will not need the same kit as an experienced mixologist. Finally, consider the price and read reviews from other users to help you make an informed choice.
What syrups to spice up your drinks?
There are a multitude of syrups to “pimp” your drinks, whether they are alcoholic or not. For example, there are artisanal and 100% natural products that are made in France. They offer authentic tastes. There are very well-known brands that offer a wide range of syrups for all tastes.
Homemade syrups can also be a great option, with recipes that suggest the use of various fruits and spices. A homemade, 100% natural vanilla syrup can add a touch of sweetness to your cocktails, drinks, and pastries. Sugar syrup is one of the most commonly used by beginners. It’s an essential to have at home. It is often used to balance sour and bitter flavors in cocktails. Lemon syrup is also recommended for beginners and experienced bartenders and cooks. Its fresh scent and its taste, both bitter and sweet, give an original flavor to cocktails.
Purees and bitters can also be used to add flavor to drinks. However, you should keep in mind that the choice of syrups depends mainly on personal preferences and the type of cocktails you want to prepare.
The right glasses for the right drinks
If you’re new to making cocktails and drinks, there are a few types of glasses you must have in your collection. Red wine glasses, with their giant, rounder bowls, are perfect for allowing the aromas of the wine to develop fully. For white wine, a great choice is to opt for glasses with a narrower bowl to keep the drink cold longer. Champagne flutes, long and narrow, retain the bubbles and concentrate the aromas. They are frequently used to serve cocktails, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
There are several types of beer glasses, each designed to enhance the experience of tasting different styles of beer. The mug is a must. It is the first beer glass in history. The balloon glass is perfect for tasting dark beers. When it comes to cocktails, wide, shallow glasses, or coupes, are ideal for drinks served “up.” Old Fashioned models, short and wide, are perfect for cocktails served over ice. Highball glasses, straight and narrow, are used for cocktails served with lots of ice and a soft drink. For Martinis, there are specific “V” shaped glasses. However, these uses may vary depending on personal preferences and regional traditions.