Want to build your home bar, but don't know where to begin? We'll show you how to start from scratch with the cocktail essentials. First, we tackle the must-have liquors and what to make with them, and the mixers that are (and aren't!) staples for tipples both classic and contemporary. Of course, don't forget the garnishes, glassware, and gear — including our go-to cocktail book. Watch our video to become a master behind the bar in no time.
How to Stock Your Home Bar
Recently, I met with bartender and English Gins brand ambassador Erick Castro. Over a couple of gin drinks, Castro and I talked about making cocktails at home. I asked him what's the best way for a cocktail enthusiast to stock their home bar. He not only shared the spirits he recommends, but he also provided some helpful tips. If you're into making and enjoying libations, from classic cocktails to tiki drinks to modern mixology, read on for his suggestions.
8 Tools to Trick Out Your Home Bar
We've already shared our picks on what alcohol makes a home bar stocked, but here's a quick refresher course on what tools help make all the cocktails you've dreamed up a reality. We've got you covered with these eight items that are sure to make you feel like the serious bartender you are!
Gearing Up for New Year's Eve: Bar Essentials
Congratulations — you are hosting a New Year's Eve party! Once you have stocked up on the proper spirits and mixes, infuse your bar cart with a few unexpected touches like a gold cocktail shaker or handmade tumblers. It's the little details that make a party complete, and these 10 items are sure to do just that!
Shake, Stir, Pour: 7 Camping Cocktail Essentials
Camping and cocktails are an essential way wrap up the Summer and celebrate Labor Day. If you are heading off to the great outdoors this weekend and want to mix up your favorite drink, then consider packing a minibar. Unlike your bar cart wares at home, these tools are sturdy enough to withstand the weather and the trails but still manage to shake up the perfect cocktail. Guarantee yourself a good time and a refreshing campground cocktail on your next adventure with these essentials.
Source: Instagram user sducoron and Instagram user edwardyipp
Off to Market: Wine Opener
Last night when I was opening a bottle of wine, my corkscrew broke! It was a cheap wine opener, but nonetheless, I was disappointed. Before I can enjoy another bottle of wine, I have to get a new wine opener. Can you help me find one? Look for any type — simple, complex, or gadget-like — of functional corkscrew. Bookmark your discoveries in the Yum Market on TeamSugar with the keyword tag Wine Opener. Thanks for your assistance!
Interested in bookmarking? Read geeksugar's explanation of this feature to learn how to participate.
Find out where I like to shop online for food and entertaining accessories when you read more
Off to Market Recap: Wine Decanters
If you're looking to upgrade your home bar in style, then a decanter is a must-have. I asked you to help me look for a comely carafe that would create conversation as much as it would soften a tannic red wine. You bookmarked your favorite decanters in the Yum Market on TeamSugar with the keyword tag Wine Decanters. I love globes, so I was particularly intrigued by this delightful decanter that SweetnLow discovered. To look at the entire collection, scroll below.
Off to Market Recap: Ice Bucket
An ice bucket is essential to any home bar. Since I'm trying to make my bar perfectly party ready, I've decided to invest in one. You helped me by heading off to market in search of a functional yet stylish ice bucket. You bookmarked your ice bucket finds in the Yum Market on TeamSugar with the keyword tag, Ice Bucket. Pink is my favorite color, so naturally I love this raspberry-hued ice bucket that sofi saved. This easy-to-clean bucket is ideal for Summer entertaining. Divine discovery, sofi! To look at the entire collection, scroll below.
Off to Market: Wine Decanters
Long before I understood their purpose, I was mesmerized by wine decanters. With their crystal-clear form and graceful presence in a room, I've always thought decanters are as beautiful as sculptures.
As it turned out, these carafes aren't just sitting pretty. Using them keeps unwanted sediment out of your glass, and also aerates wines, allowing tannic bottles to soften.
Let's set off to market for an extra-special decanter that is both gorgeous and functional. Bookmark your finds in the Yum Market with the keyword tag Wine Decanters. I can't wait to see your finds!
To learn more about the bookmarking feature, please read geeksugar's explanation.
Don't know where to start searching? Check out a list of my favorite online stores when you read more
Off to Market: Ice Bucket
An ice bucket is essential to any home bar. Since I'm trying to make my bar perfectly party ready, I've decided to invest in one. Let's head off to market in search of a functional yet stylish ice bucket. Look for an ice bucket with tongs that can double as a wine cooler. Bookmark your ice bucket finds in the the Yum Market on TeamSugar with the keyword tag Ice Bucket. I can't wait to check out all of your cool discoveries!
To learn more about the bookmarking feature, please read GeekSugar's explanation.
Don't know where to start searching? Check out a list of my favorite online stores when you read more


