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Making cocktail bar-worthy drinks at home doesn’t have to be hard — as long as you have the right equipment. It’s not just about stocking up on your favorite liquor either. To really impress your guests, you should be equipped with a well-stocked cocktail kit.
The right cocktail shaker set is essential in order to make concoctions from your own kitchen look and taste more like what you’d find in a swanky bar. You may not realize it, but there can actually be a wrong way to mix drinks. If your cocktail calls for juices, dairy, or egg whites, stirring the cocktail will result in a sub-par beverage. To properly blend the required liquids and achieve a consistent, unified flavor, a shaker is in order. If your beverage needs a thorough chill, shaking it with ice is also the quickest way to reach the desired temperature.
However, not all cocktail shaker sets are designed the same. Some models have integrated strainers while others – built in the Boston Shaker style – require a separate piece of straining equipment. While they both effectively do the job, the best cocktail kit is a matter of preference, just like the cocktail menu you choose to assemble.
The cocktail shaker set you choose will depend on whether you’re looking for a basic setup that will simply help you be more creative at home or if you’re seeking an arsenal of tools that will allow you to compete with even your favorite bartender. Consider the types of cocktails you want to make and the number of people you are serving. You’ll also want to keep in mind the space you have at home. We found mini cocktail kits that can be tucked away easily, but some show-stopping sets that are worth displaying on your bar cart or countertop too. No matter your needs, these picks will bring out the mixologist in you.
