Almost as important as the flavours you create are the tools you use to create them.
So this Christmas Gift Guide, we;ve pull together a few tools we thought go beyond the typical and present some novel gift ideas.
Whether you are looking for ideas that can serve multiple purposes, present a unique vintage flair or simply add a bit of style to any bar cart, we hope there are a few ideas here that will keep those crafted cocktails flowing.
1. Gorham Martini Spike (Sterling Silver Vermouth Dispenser)
PIN ITIf you are very particular about the Vermouth in your Martini, then this Vermouth dispenser will be the most helpful bar tool you’ve ever had. Dispensing Vermouth into your Martini “by the drop”, this mid-century sterling silver vintage bar tool is understandably shaped like a syringe. Note – this item was available at the time of posting, but as vintage items are often one-offs, we take no responsibility if it has since sold (but hope it will spark your interest in vintage cocktailware, anyway).
For more information, go to thehourshop.com
2. The Botanist Mixing Glass
PIN ITNothing says you are obsessed with Martinis more than having a mixing glass from The Botanist Gin. Featuring the brand’s iconic Latin botanical emboss glass (just like they have on the Gin bottle), a mixing glass like this one is an essential tool for any mixologist. Ensure that you do your bit to ensure that branded merch like this is not just for professional bartenders anymore … make it a must-have for your home bar.
For more information, go to thebotanist.com
3. Ice Tapper
PIN ITIf you have absolutely no idea what this is, then you’re probably not alone. But if you said you thought it had something to do with ice, then you get a gold star. Designed to break larger pieces of ice, this is an Ice Tapper. Made from flexible polypropylene and stainless steel, this mid-century icon was popular in the 1950s, as it cracks the ice more efficiently than the back of a bar spoon.
For more information, go to barflybymercer.com
4. Lenox Cocktail Bar Tool Set
PIN ITIf you are searching for a way to make your bar cart better, then this bar tool set may be your answer. Lift the lid to find an ice scoop, jigger, muddler and bottle opener at the ready. Then, as an added bonus, lift out the tool stand, and you’ve got yourself an ice bucket. Whether your drink is shaken, stirred or on the rocks, this bar tool set has you covered.
For more information, go to amazon.com
5. The Balanced Pot Jigger
PIN ITIf you want to make a bit of a show of your cocktail making, then The Balanced Pot is one of the cutest and most unique little jiggers out there. As you would expect, its measuring ability is an exact 30mls or 1oz, so it is ideal for anyone, whether they are an amateur or professional bartender. Durable and corrosion-free, the jigger is made from dishwasher safe stainless-steel.
For more information, go to skolbartending.com
6. Celtic Knot Premium Bar Strainer
PIN ITA first in a series of premium bar strainers crafted and polished by hand, which will leave you asking, is this a work of art or a bar tool? Artisans take a single piece of metal to transform the strainers Into a fine bar strainer for crafting premium cocktails. With each strainer presented in a magnetic gift box, this tool is the ultimate mixologist experience.
For more information, go to princeofscots.com
7. 2-in-1 Cocktail Strainer & Jigger
PIN ITThe 2-in-1 Strainer & Jigger is a versatile addition to any bartender’s toolkit. Combining two essential bar tools, it offers compact storage by nesting the strainer and jigger together, making it perfect for both home and professional use. The flexible silicone strainer has been designed to fit seamlessly into most cocktail mixing glasses and ensures efficient straining. While the jigger provides precise 1oz (30ml) and 1.5oz (45ml) measurements.
For more information, go to amazon.com
8. Sertodo Copper Ringer Bar Spoon
PIN ITMade to be used but also made to last and look good doing it, the Copper Ring Bar Spoon allows you to swing the ring a stir down a variety of tasty drinks. Created from hand-hammered, heavy-gauge, pure 100% recycled copper, this bar spoon will patina over time, bringing out the inherent beautiful colours of well-used and well-loved copper (which basically is a fancy way of saying that you won’t need to polish it to keep it looking good.)
For more information, go to amazon.com
9. Cocktail Muddler & Reamer
PIN ITAs you can probably tell by now, we do love a product that can do double duty and the Cocktail Muddler and Reamer is a two-in-one that does just that. Slip off the protective cap, and you can juice your limes with ease with the Polypropylene Reamer … while the Beechwood end is ready to muddle anything from herbs and fruit in a mixing glass or shaker.
For more information, go to macys.com
10. Napier Art Deco Silver Plated Penguin Cocktail Shaker
PIN ITIf you’re a cocktail enthusiast with a particular bent towards Art Deco, then the Napier Penguin Cocktail Shaker will surely become a prized possession. Designed by the master craftsman Emile Schulke in 1936, the cocktail penguin has a detachable top and the penguin’s beak opens up to reveal the original stopper. Note – this item was available at the time of posting, but as vintage items are often one-offs, we take no responsibility if it has since sold.
For more information, go to 1stdibs.com
