
Build Your Summer Cocktail Bar at Home
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There’s nothing quite like sipping a perfectly crafted drink under the summer sunshine— and with the proper setup, you don’t need to leave your abode to enjoy it! Whether you’re hosting a Summer gathering or even just winding down on a warm Summer evening, having your own cocktail bar carries the delight (and the flavor) to you.
In this article, we’ll step into everything you need to build a smart, functional home bar setup that keeps the drinks flowing and the good vibes going!

Designate a Bar Space
Choose a bright, ventilated spot at home, such as an outdoor patio, a kitchen corner with a big window, or a rolling cart that you can easily position anywhere. A bar cart makes it easy to transport to poolside or garden parties. Pick a spot that feels summery and social to match the season’s vibe.

Stock Essential Spirits
Build a nice collection of versatile summer spirits. Friendly reminder that you don’t need to have lots of liquors lined up on your bar counter. 2-3 bottles are more than enough for a home bar setup. Below is the list of the spirits you can choose from:
Vodka (for spritzes and martinis)
White rum (for mojitos and daiquiris)
Tequila (hello, margaritas)
Gin (refreshing G&Ts and fizzes)
Aperitifs like Aperol or Campari (for spritzes and negronis)

Mixers & Garnishes
Keep your fridge stocked with essential mixers and garnishes to top off your cocktails and mocktails. Simple and staple kitchen ingredients are always the best option for garnishes and when creating infused syrups. Of course, don’t forget to have a bottle or two of those crisp wines and sparkling water stocked.
Here is a list of some must-have items in your fridge:
Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges)
Fresh herbs (mint, basil, rosemary)
Simple syrup, soda water, tonic, ginger beer, light crisp wines
Summer fruits (pineapple, berries, cucumber)
Lots of ice

Upgrade Your Tools
Invest in a sleek, durable, and trusted bartending kit to enhance your home bar setup. Consider the portability and ease of handling when selecting the right bartending kit, as it will play a significant role in your home bar setup. Our Bare Barrel Mixology Bartender Kit Bar Set is a 16-piece bartending set designed to include all the essential tools and more for both bartenders and home mixologists alike. It also contains 35 recipe cards, so you don’t run out of drink ideas this Summer season!

A nicely curated set of bartending tools usually includes the following:
Cocktail Shaker - Typically a Cobbler or a Boston-type shaker. If you’re always on the go or prefer to travel, consider a triple-insulated one to reduce condensation. This model features a built-in strainer and graduated lid and cap for ease of measurement. Our new Bare Barrel Insulated Cocktail Shaker Set has a variety of colors you can choose from, so you don’t just shake cocktails, you also shake them in style!
Jiggers - select the ones with marked measurements
Muddler, bar spoon, wine opener, and ice tongs
Strainers - A fine mesh strainer for a smooth and velvety texture drink, and a Hawthorne strainer to ensure no ice or large ingredient pieces are poured into the glass.
Spare bottle stoppers and pourers
Lastly, don’t forget to display a variety of glassware for your drinks!

Create a Signature Summer Cocktail
This is totally optional. If the homebar you’re building is only meant for your consumption through the Summer Season, then there’s no need for this. However, if you’re planning to host a BBQ party or a beach/pool gathering, you can pick at least 2-3 drinks that you can master and that your guests will love. It’s also great to include some non-alcoholic options so that everyone can enjoy the bar! Include any of the following:
A refreshing spritz
A frozen/slushy cocktail
A fruity punch
A zero-proof (mocktail) option such as: Virgin Mojito or Shirley Temple
Lastly, consider printing and displaying your menu on a chalkboard for added aesthetic and fun!

With the proper setup, your home cocktail bar can evolve into the heart of every summer gathering. By stocking up on essential tools, fresh ingredients, and a few innovative touches, you’ll be ready to shake, stir, and serve those refreshing quenchers all season!
So raise a glass, enjoy the Summer sunshine, and let your Summer bar become the ultimate destination for good times and great sips at your home!
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