Getting started with making cocktails at home. It is easy really, though like anything, the more time and effort you want to put in, the better the end result will be !
First thing then apart from the spirits, liqueurs and mixers is that you need a selection of glasses.
Martini glasses are a must
You can get a good range from specialist kitchenware shops such as the Kitchen Range Cookshop in Market Harborough. John Lewis and other upmarket department stores also do a classy range of cocktail glasses.
Modern cocktails tend to avoid the paraphenalia that used to sit in the top such as straws, parasols, and furry dragonflies. Yes, really we used to have some! That’s all a bit 80s and while you don’t go for big hair, shoulder pads and white stilettos now, so your cocktails don’t need Del Boy style adornments. Less is more.
Maybe treat yourself to a shaker if you want to impress your guests, it will last years and a metal one won’t need replacing after a few years.
You will need ice though if you’re planning a party featuring cocktails at home. Bags from the supermarket are good if you don’t have enough time to make your own.
Many websites have a wide and wild variety of recipes so have fun choosing. We also regularly post or retweet things we like on Twitter www.twitter.com/CocktlShkrBoys
Understand the difference between spirits and liqueurs. Most cocktails contain at least one spirit and there are really only 6 so that’s easily sorted.
You simply need Whisky (and no Southern Comfort isn’t a type of whisky), Gin, Vodka, Rum, Brandy and Tequila. Try mixing your own and above all have fun.
Get a range of mixers in : fruit juices, fizzy stuff and you’re set – good to go.
The Cocktail Shaker Boys are always (of course) on hand to advise clients and friends on what cocktails to serve and how to put together a cocktail menu. We serve ‘em up in Market Harborough, Kibworth, Oadby, Leicester, Oakham, Uppingham, Rutland, Melton Mowbray, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Kettering, Wellingborough, Corby, Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Warwick, Rugby, Coventry, Birmingham, Lutterworth, Daventry plus wider parts of Leicestershire and Northamptonshire. Contact us on 01858 898154 or via e-mail info@cocktailshakerboys.co.uk