Barware includes glasses, stirrers, mixers, knives, and other tools used by bartenders to prepare and serve alcoholic beverages. A proper set of glassware is important, and specialty tools like shakers, strainers, and blenders are also essential. Barware can be purchased in sets or individually.
Basically, if you see something in a bar and can’t drink it, it would be considered bar service. Barware consists of glasses, stemware, stirrers, mixers, knives, and other tools used by bartenders to prepare and serve alcoholic beverages. Some barware combinations may be called bar sets or shaker sets, but “barware” is the general term for all the accessories found in a professionally stocked bar.
One of the most important elements in barware is a proper set of glassware. Wine should be served in specialized glasses with long stems, for example. Since the wine needs to stay cold for as long as possible, the stem allows the customer to hold the glass without warming it with their fingers. Short but wide glasses allow spirits and mixed drinks to mix with ice cubes without crowding the glass. A shot glass allows users to enjoy a more concentrated shot of whiskey or other hard liquor without the need for ice. Frosted mugs help beer drinkers keep drinks cold. A glass pitcher can make Sangria easier to prepare or keep a stash of frozen drinks on hand.
Barware also includes specialty tools for making drinks. A cooking spoon is great for measuring separate ingredients and mixing them together. Some drinks can be prepared in a shaker, a two-piece hand mixer consisting of a cylinder and cap. Another tool called a strainer fits over the lip of the shaker to keep ice and fruit out of the finished martini or mixed drink. A good blender designed for frozen drinks would also be considered barware essentials.
Other bar items might include bottle caps and pourers. Some pourers are designed to dispense a pre-measured amount of alcohol, typically 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 ounces in a traditional shot. A good all-purpose bar knife is also useful for preparing fruit garnishes and cutting individual ingredients for mixed drinks. Trays to hold fruit, olives, pearl onions, and other drink garnishes would also be considered barware.
Those interested in stocking a home bar with proper barware can first consult a book or two on the art of mixology. It helps to know what accessories are needed to make your favorite drinks. Some bar items are sold as sets, such as glassware and basic measuring tools. Other pieces may need to be purchased separately if needed. Kitchenware stores can have a much larger selection of barware than department stores. There are even internet foodservice suppliers that can help customize an entire home wet bar. Bar items don’t have to be prohibitively expensive, but be prepared to replace glasses and mugs from time to time.
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