OUTFIT DETAILS: TOP // PANTS // PUMPS // EARRINGS // LIPS // MATT’S SWEATER // MATT’S JEANS // MATT’S SHOES
Whether you’re having a few friends over for a cocktail or a large holiday party, here are some tips on how to stock your bar cart for the holiday season.
I could think of no one better to help me with this post than my husband, Matt, who’s a certified Sommelier and an expert in all things hospitality!
So, I’m handing it over to him to help you create the perfect bar cart to enjoy with your family and friends this holiday season.
Hi guys, I’m happy to be here to share some tips with you today. There are a few key basics to think about when setting up the perfect bar cart for a holiday party or gathering.
Collect your supplies.
There are a few supplies to cover before we begin. The first thing should probably be a standard bar mixing set like this one. These can be found almost anywhere kitchen items are sold and will include a shaker, strainer, and jigger for measuring. Keep a paring knife on the cart for cutting fruit. You’ll also need a small ice bucket with tongs. Don’t forget glassware, bar napkins, and straws.
Shannon and I keep a small wine rack on our bar cart. Be sure to have a wine key nearby for opening, too.
How much will people drink?
Plan on about three drinks per person. The average breakdown is two drinks in the first hour and then one drink per hour after that. Of course, you can adjust this number up or down if you know exactly who’s coming or how much/little they’re likely to drink.
Each 750 ml bottle of spirits will give you about 15 pours, so plan accordingly for your guest list. It’s always a good idea to have some back-ups so you don’t run out mid-party. And make sure to have plenty of ice on hand – about two pounds per guest is a good rule of thumb.
What do I offer?
A great place to start is to decide whether you’ll offer signature cocktails or if the bar will be more of a self-serve area for your guests. Either way is totally fine, but deciding this ahead of time will help guide you as you begin.
If you’re planning serving signature drinks, it’s a good idea to have two main recipes in mind to offer to your guests, a light style and a richer style. You can choose simple recipes that will give your guests options to cover their personal taste – whether it be light and refreshing drinks or rich, bold flavors.
For example, a classic French 75 is a bubbly and refreshing cocktail that uses gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling wine. A bolder cocktail example could be a Boulevardier which includes bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. These two are classic cocktails that will show your guests you did a little research and you know what you’re doing.
If you’re starting from scratch it’s a good idea to offer a few kinds of spirits to give guests some options. Grab a gin, vodka, bourbon, and a tequila and you’re good to go. No need to go overboard here, keep it simple.
Including a bitter spirit like Aperol or Campari can allow your guests to make a wide range of interesting cocktails. For example, add Aperol to sparkling wine and a splash of soda and you have an Aperol Spritz.
Lastly, you can grab a small bottle of bitters, such as Angostura. Just a few dashes of bitters adds great flavors of spice and herbal notes that really elevate any cocktail. Bitters are also a great way to add flavor to low/no alcohol beverages for your alcohol free or designated driving guests.
What about mixers and wine?
This is pretty straight forward. Tonics, soda waters, and simple syrup are bar staples and should always be included. The same goes for lemons, limes, and a few oranges. Beyond this include whatever else you think your guests will enjoy like fountain drinks or juices, however, remember to keep it simple.
In terms of wine nothing beats a good champagne for a festive occasion. Veuve Clicquot is a very recognizable and quality producer to include. Shannon and I both love their Brut Rosé. Another great producer is Bollinger, their Special Cuvée is my personal favorite right now.
Many great cocktails call for sparkling wine so I wouldn’t waste a good champagne. Instead, use a crémant or cava for these. They’re made in the same way as champagne and taste very similar. They’re easier on the budget as well.
You may want to have a still white and red available for your wine drinking guests. For the best value, stay in the $15-25 per bottle price range. Spanish and Argentinian wines are some of the best quality in this price point.
The most important thing to remember is to have fun. Don’t be afraid to add your own personal style and flair and try not to be intimidated. A little research ahead of time will help you find fun cocktail recipes that resonate with you. Who knows, you may even find inspiration to create your own holiday cocktail.
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