Styling the Perfect Gentleman’s Cocktail Bar

Arranging a proper gentleman's cocktail bar in your home does not require a lot of space. With a little room, a good bar service surface, and the right implements, you will have a full service nightcap station soon. If you already have a built-in bar in your home, whether it be a traditional bar, wet bar or a Butler’s pantry you can skip down to Step Two: Barware. If you don’t already have a bar , then it’s time to create, designate, or re-purpose a location for one.

Step One: Creating the Bar Area

You should scan your home for the most comfortable spot to allow for gatherings. Any clear area or unused corner will do for setting up a bar service station. Once you decide on your location, you can choose your service surface based on the dimensions of the area. You have many style choices. You can use a low bookcase, a console table with wall shelves, a bar cart, a breakfront, a credenza, an armoire, or even re-purpose a vintage chest. Make certain it has enough surface for mixing and serving, and storage space, as well. Once you have made your decision, you can begin to stock your bar. 

Step Two: Barware

If you have a lot of space, purchase plenty of  barware sets to accommodate your favorite type of drinks to serve. American service comes in sets of eight and European service comes in sets of six. Barware can also be purchased in smaller sets or as individual pieces. The most essential types of barware include: 4 oz. glasses for sipping, short 4-8 oz. glasses, 8 oz. glasses for drinks which call for a lot of ice, cocktail glasses (Martini), white and red wine glasses, Cordial & Liqueur glasses, Champagne glasses, and Brandy snifters. If you enjoy warm drinks on a cold night , include glass mugs which can be used for Irish Coffee, Hot Toddies or Mulled Wine. Important additions also include decanters, pitchers and Pilsner glasses. If you want to create a unique and elegant look for your bar area , consider conversation worthy barware: pewter and glass, glasses with sculptural details, and even animal busts can turn a simple glass into a gorgeous piece of barware and your bar area into an ultimate dapper drinking experience. 

Step Three: Bar Tools

Next you will need the tools necessary for preparing the delicious cocktails for your guests. Here are seven of the most essential tools: A Parisian shaker, a mixing glass with a pouring spout, a strainer, a jigger, a stirring spoon, a paring knife (for citrus fruits), a cork screw, and an ice bucket with tongs. A bowl for citrus fruits and a small cutting board will also be very useful. If you have the room, you can also invest in a citrus fruit press. Toothpicks and cloth cocktail napkins are a must. Include an ornate or classic tray, depending on your style, to keep all these necessities beautifully displayed in one place. Now that you have acquired all the pieces to put your bar together, you can start buying the bottles.

Step Four: The Liquor

Always keep a stock of the red and white wines you love (store accordingly), the same goes for Champagne and sparkling wines. If you enjoy liqueurs or cordials, decide on one or two of the many choices. There are berry, chocolate, coffee cream, flower, fruit, nut, honey, whiskey, and herbal flavors from which to choose. When choosing the liquors include Gin, Vodka, Bourbon Whiskey, Scotch Whiskey, Tequila, Rum, and Cognac.

Step Five: Garnishes & Mixers

Your garnishes should include lemons, limes, olives, cocktail onions, sugar, salt, and perhaps horseradish and Tabasco Sauce if your drink recipes call for such. Your shopping list for mixers should include; Cointreau, Red Vermouth, White Vermouth, club soda, tonic water, and a variety of juices based on the drinks you will be preparing.

No matter if the occasion is just pouring a drink after a long day, for two at a romantic dinner, or for 10 at your next cocktail party , having a well-stocked and elegantly styled bar will make the cocktail hour a sophisticated experience every gentleman will love.