Now that you have bar stocked, let’s talk about those bar essentials that you need to make drinks up like a pro. Most of us have a bottle opener, cork screw and ice bucket on hand.  Here are some other bar tools that can take your cocktail making to the next level.  Or at least make you look like a pro.

Martini shaker-one of my essential tools since a lot of my favorite cocktails are martini’s.  Plus you can impress your guests by serving them a beverage from the shaker.

Jigger-good for making cocktails to order for guests.  Can quickly and easily measure out  1 oz and ½ portions of spirits.

Bar spoon-has a long handle to mix a highball or retrieve maraschino cherries or olives from the jar.

Muddler-popular for making mojitos; but also great for muddling fruit, veggies and herbs for a craft cocktail.

Zester-add some flair by zesting lemon or lime peels to pump up the flavor and aroma of your cocktails.  You can also use a standard grater in a pinch if you don’t want to purchase a separate kitchen tool.

Now you have the tools you need to mix up a variety of cocktails at your next party.