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Basic Tools You Need for Making Your First Cocktail at Home

If you are reading this article that means you are ready to make your first cocktail at home. Let's jump right to it with some basic tools and ingredients you will need to make your first creation.

Cobbler shaker

The Cobbler shaker is the most used shaker when it comes to making cocktails at home. The reason is, that it is easy to use and doesn’t need any extra tools since it has a built-in strainer. There is no science into the shaking when using a Cobbler shaker, but there is no harm in knowing how to shake like a pro.

1oz - ½oz jigger

Jiggers are cone shaped measurement tools, which come in different sizes. The most common ones are 1½oz - ¾oz and 1oz - ½oz. Some places also sell 1oz – 2oz jiggers. The best option is to buy a 1oz - ½oz jigger. You can also buy the 1oz – 2oz jigger as an extra for when you need to make cocktails for a crowd.

A Martini & Collins glass

If you are just starting out, you will probably start making the classics. Even though most cocktails are paired with a certain glass, a Martini or Collins glass are versatile enough to hold most cocktails. Use the Collins glass for cocktails poured over ice and the Martini glass for cocktails served in a chilled glass.

Straws

Cocktails served in a Collins glass need a straw. This is a really simple and basic element that most first-timers forget. A cocktail served in a Collins glass is poured over ice, so a straw makes it much easier to drink.

Standard spirits

The great thing about classic cocktails is that they are often made with the same spirit. They are made with white rum and/or vodka. Since cocktails with Blue Curaçao are really popular it’s good to also buy a Senior Genuine Blue Curaçao. Cocktails with Senior Blue Curaçao are always a favorite at parties. It’s probably the color that makes people happier.

Standard Juices

So you have your tools and your alcohol (very important)…but now what? If you want to make a classic Rum Punch or Piña Colada you need one more key ingredient: juice. Cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice and lime juice are the most popular juices you will need. Recipes never specify whether you should use fresh or store bought juice. The rule of thumb is that one should always use fresh lime juice, but this is not the case with the other juices. Though it is not required we recommend using fresh juices when possible. It will make a lot of difference when it comes to the taste.

Limes

Aside from being a popularly used juice, in both classic cocktails and the new era cocktails, limes are a go-to garnish when you want to make your cocktail look pretty. Use lime slices, lime wedges or lime spiral as a way to make a cocktail more attractive and impress everyone with your creations.