12 tips from professional mixologists for your home party

Crafting delicious cocktails in the comfort of your own home is a wonderful way to express your hospitality and love for mixology. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a beginner eager to learn, we have gathered insider tips from top bartenders and mixologists to help you shake (or stir) the best cocktails and take your entertaining game to new heights. This is prepared by SSP.

1. Use Fresh Citrus

Elevate your cocktails by using fresh ingredients, particularly freshly squeezed citrus juice. Bottled citrus juices often contain additives and preservatives while lacking the same zing as fresh juice. Invest in a citrus press or reamer to easily juice your own citrus fruits.

2. Refrigerate the Right Items

Keep certain cocktail ingredients like syrups and fortified wines refrigerated to maintain their freshness and quality. Vermouth, sherry, port, and other wine-based products should be refrigerated if they have an alcohol content under 20%.

3. Pay Attention to the Ice

Ice plays a crucial role in cocktails as it can impact both flavor and presentation. Consider buying specialized ice, such as pebble ice, from fast food chains or local suppliers. Clear ice or ice spheres can also be obtained from various sources, including favorite bars or local companies.

4. Get an Ice Machine

If you're truly interested in perfecting your cocktails at home, investing in an ice machine can make a significant difference. Ghost Ice System and similar brands offer clear cocktail ice makers, while countertop nugget ice machines work wonders for cocktails and iced lattes.

5. Make Infused Ice

Enhance the flavor of your cocktails by freezing herbs, fruits, or even coffee into ice cubes. Infusing your ice adds a nuanced twist to each sip and creates a visually appealing experience.

6. Use Homemade Syrups

Syrups are best made at home as they are easier, faster, and less expensive than buying pre-made ones. A classic simple syrup can be crafted by combining equal parts water and sugar, heated until fully dissolved. Explore infused syrups by steeping herbs, fruits, or spices in the cooling syrup to add depth of flavor.

7. Sweet Substitutions

Don't hesitate to experiment with alternative sweeteners such as maple syrup, brown sugar, corn syrup, or honey if you're running low on granulated sugar. Different sweeteners can alter the flavor profile of your cocktail and lead to delightful discoveries.

8. Get Creative with Glassware

While specific glassware is often recommended for cocktails, don't despair if you don't have the exact matching glass in your collection. Experiment with different glasses like jam jars or wine glasses as substitutes. Opting for versatile glassware can also free up space for other bar essentials or decor.

9. Get the Order of the Pour Right

Follow a logical order of adding ingredients to your cocktail. Begin with the least expensive ingredients, gradually building the flavors. This approach ensures you don't waste pricier ingredients if adjustments are needed.

10. Ice Last, Liquid First

To control the cocktail's dilution and prevent over-melting, always add ice to the mixing vessel last. This way, you can measure your ingredients accurately and achieve the desired flavor balance.

11. Make Drinks Ahead for a Crowd

When hosting a group, consider pre-batching cocktails in advance. This simplifies the process, allowing guests to easily serve themselves from a beverage dispenser with pre-skewered garnishes. A small menu listing the ingredients adds a personalized touch.

12. Make Do with Kitchen Utensils

Specialty bar tools aren't always necessary. Use slotted spoons as makeshift strainers and muddlers. Vegetable peelers can create citrus garnishes, while tablespoons work as a substitute for jiggers. Mason jars, complete with measurements, can serve as a makeshift cocktail shaker.