You don’t need a big budget to find quality gifts this holiday season - even for the cocktail connoisseur with expensive taste. Read on for our top gift ideas that are sure to impress even the most finicky folks on your shopping list.
1) Home Bar Tool set
For the friend with the ever-expanding collection of spirits, a home bar tool set can sometimes be an oversight. A pre-packaged set can set you back a pretty penny (and to be quite frank, these sets often include superfluous tools that are likely to end up in the junk drawer), but all it takes is a bit of extra time and thought to create your own custom tool set and save a few bucks along the way. Consider what kinds of spirits and cocktails your friend prefers and structure their set around them. If you’re not sure, safe bets include a good quality muddler, mixing glasses, a long-handled bar spoon, and a hefty jigger or shot glass. We like Cocktail Kingdom and KegWorks for home bar essentials.
2) Unique Glassware
Glassware can make the drink! Stop into your local thrift and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds or opt for something new and quirky from Uncommon Goods.
3) COCKTAIL KIT
Home delivery cocktail boxes are a great gift for someone who’s interested in mixology but isn’t sure how to start. Help them build confidence with a subscription to SaloonBox or Mouth!
4) Sparkling mixers from small makers
No home bar is complete without a stock of mixers. Whenever possible, we recommend supporting small businesses like Fruitbelt and, of course, Top Note Tonic.
5) Good ice
Let's face it, clear ice is a thing for a reason. We love On The Rocks, but their ice maker kits aren’t cheap. If you’re looking to save a few bucks, a simple ice mold is still a great gift. While these molds won’t produce clear ice, the Old Fashioned lover will appreciate a slow-melting sphere or 2-inch square, and for those who prefer highballs and Collins-style cocktails, they’ll surely appreciate a long rectangular cube to keep their drink cold and fizzy.