Having a well-equipped home bar goes beyond just stocking up on liquor. It is about creating a space for memories, conversation, and savouring exquisite flavours. But what goes into building the perfect home bar experience?
According to Wine Sommelier and Columnist Magandeep Singh and Lyndsay Smith, Head of Westside Home, the right glassware and bar tools are key.
From crystal wine glasses for reds and whites to sleek cocktail glasses for mixed drinks, having the right vessels can make a significant difference. Additionally, having essential bar tools such as shakers, strainers, muddlers, and jiggers can help you craft drinks like a professional bartender. “Elevating your presentation game requires investing in the right tools. Having these tools at your fingertips can help you craft a wide range of cocktails tailored to your guests’ tastes, whether they prefer classic concoctions or trendy mixes. Plus, there is something special about a perfectly crafted drink. It is all about fostering a sense of hospitality and creating moments worth savouring together,” Smith commented.
These essentials are not only functional but also add a touch of elegance to your home bar. Additionally, investing in quality glassware can enhance the aroma and taste of your favourite spirits, taking your at-home bar experience to the next level. “There is no magic number for how much glassware you need,” said Singh. “It depends on your space and your drink preferences.”
However, there are a few essential shapes that will serve you well: highball glasses for taller drinks, coupe or martini glasses for classic cocktails, and wine glasses. Rocks glasses, for drinks served “on the rocks” with ice, round out the basic collection.
But beyond functionality, glassware plays a big role in the sensory experience. As Singh shared, “Design and quality have a two-fold impact. First, it enhances the presentation of your drinks. A beautiful glass elevates the perception of the beverage, making it feel more classy and premium.” Durability is also important. “Quality glasses resist chipping and clouding from washing and will save you money in the long run by needing fewer replacements,” he added.
Lyndsay Smith from Westside Home echoed Singh’s emphasis on quality. When choosing glassware, she highlighted the importance of durability and functionality, especially for lively gatherings. “Invest in high-quality, elegant, and durable glassware that is less likely to break or chip, ensuring longevity and safety. Good glassware can serve multiple purposes to maximise functionality and space efficiency.” For example, stemless wine glasses can also be used for cocktails, while rock glasses can double as serving vessels for desserts or appetizers. Smith advised, “Opt for stackable or nested glasses to save space, or choose styles that can be hung on racks or stored upright to keep them organised.”
Aesthetics also play a vital role in selecting glassware that complements your bar’s overall style, whether classic or modern, adding a touch of personalisation. Smith reminded us to consider weight, size, and shape for a pleasurable drinking experience.
For Singh, brands like Lucaris offer ideal home barware. “Their collections are durable and great value for money. They are not prone to breaking easily, are resistant to multiple washes, and will retain their shine over time,” he opined. “They add a touch of novelty and professionalism to your drinks.”
A well-organised home bar with essential tools like jiggers, shakers, and strainers ensures efficient and effortless cocktail preparation. You can personalise your bar further with stylish tongs and bottle openers that complement your glassware.
Glassware, while beautiful, can be fragile. Proper care is essential for a long shelf life. Singh recommended rinsing glasses after use, air-drying them on a rack instead of using a towel (towels can leave lint, store dry glasses in a safe place and occasionally polish with a chamois for extra shine. “Handling them delicately and carefully is the only care needed,” he concluded.
As per Smith, “A well-equipped home bar is an ace in the hole for hosting memorable gatherings, especially when it is a cocktail party.” And as Singh puts it, high-quality barware “sets you apart from the amateurs and transforms you into a true connoisseur.” A home bar is much more than just the drinks or the glasses; it is about creating a space for connection and savouring special moments. So, raise a glass (held comfortably, of course!) to your perfectly equipped home bar, where memories are made and good times are always flowing.