I make a living writing about the good stuff: food, booze, travel. My lifestyle allows me to travel and live way beyond my means, rub elbows with the world's epicurean elite, and eat and drink better than most people (and often for free).
You have the premium spirits, the requisite bitters and fresh fruit garnishes, and even a snazzy bar to stock it all. Now, all you need is some cool barware to give that extra special flair to your homemade cocktails. Check out these must-have designer bar accessories.
NotNeutral Ribbon Cordial Glasses
not Neutral Ribbon Cordial GlassesThis funky two ounce cordial glasses are great for after-dinner liquors or even a flight of aged tequilla shots. Designed by notNeutral, the design is etched into the glass and really pops when the glass is full. They're available as of 2009 at notNeutral stores in Montreal, Chicago, Mumbai, Paris and Los Angeles: $32 for a set of four.
Nambé Twist Cocktail Shaker
Nambé Twist Cocktail ShakerPut Tom Cruise to shame by shaking up your cocktail in this ultra sleek twisted shaker by Nambé. Designed by Fred Bould, its bullet-shaped body gives a nod to the double helix. Made of thermal-retentive Nambé metal, you can freeze it and it will retain the cold so that you don't have to use ice cubes, which can water a drink down. At $145, it's for true enthusiasts.
Macho Decanter By Kuell Engman for Kosta Boda
Macho Decanter By Kuell Engman for Kosta BodaThis handsome decanter features a heavy lug bolt stopper and holds 70 cl of whatever liquid one might want to put in it. The name itself is an indication of what sort of man might want to own such a piece of designer barware. So, perhaps a small batch bourbon or craft gin would be a good fit. For $250 (in 2009), you can drink---and pour---in style.
Stelton Jigger by Peter Holmblad
Stelton Jigger by Peter HolmbladThis stainless steel jigger will ensure that you measure the exact right amount of spirit to make her signature cocktails. The standard one-ounce measure is practical, as is the skinny handle---you don't want to have to get your hands dirty, after all.
Sebastian Bergne Corkscrew
Sebastian Bergne CorkscrewYou never know how many bottles will need opening over the course of a night. This beautifully designed stainless steel corkscrew allows you to open three in a row, and keep the corks as you go. Available online for $34, as of 2009.
Orrefors On the Rocks Martini Glasses
The sleek, minimalist Swedish design of these glasses is perfect for the sophistication of a martini on the rocks. Designed by Martti Rytkonen for Michael C. Fine, they're available online for $75 for a set of two. Whether stirred or shaken, pour your martini into one of these.
