The right tableware is not just an aesthetic component of a bar, but an important functional element that affects the quality of the drinks served and the guest experience. Whether it’s a professional bar or a home collection, a certain set of barware is a must for creating a wide range of drinks and cocktails.
In this article, we take a look at the key elements of bar supplies needed for any bar to be fully functional.
Wine glasses
Wine glasses are the basis of any bar collection. A properly selected glass can significantly improve the taste of wine, revealing its aroma and bouquet.
Red wine glasses
Usually have a wide bowl, which allows the wine to “breathe”, revealing its flavor. The volume of such glasses varies from 450 to 700 ml. The large surface area of contact between wine and air promotes oxidation, which softens the tannins and reveals the complex flavors of red wine.
White wine glasses
Typically have a narrower and more elongated shape to keep the drink cool. Their volume is typically 350-450 ml. The smaller volume and narrower opening help to maintain the temperature of white wine, which is usually served chilled.
Sparkling wine glasses
Tall and narrow, they preserve the bubbles and flavor of champagne or Prosecco. The standard volume is about 200 ml. The narrow shape of the glass reduces the surface area of the wine, which helps to preserve the bubbles for longer. The high stem allows you to hold the glass without heating the drink with your hand, which is especially important for chilled sparkling wines.
Having 6-8 of each type is enough to get you started. Quality wine glasses are an investment that will pay off with the pleasure of a properly served drink.
Cocktail glasses
A variety of cocktail glasses allows you to serve drinks most favorably, emphasizing their taste and appearance.
Martini glass
Has a characteristic V-shape. Ideal for classic cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan. The wide opening of the glass allows the flavor of the cocktail to unfold quickly, and the long stem prevents the drink from heating up with your hand.
Highball
A tall glass for long drinks such as Gin & Tonic or Mojitos. Its elongated shape allows you to add large amounts of ice and mixers while keeping the drink cold.
Rox (Old Fashioned)
A low glass for serving strong drinks with ice or short mixes. The wide bottom allows you to mash fruit or herbs for cocktails, and the thick walls keep you cold well. This versatile glass is suitable for classic cocktails such as Old Fashioned or Negroni, as well as for serving whiskey or bourbon over ice.
Collins
Similar to a highball, but taller and narrower. Used for cocktails with lots of ice and carbonated ingredients. Its tall shape keeps the bubbles in carbonated drinks longer and also allows for a beautiful display of layered cocktails. A classic example of use is the Tom Collins cocktail, from which the glass gets its name.
Coupe
A wide shallow bowl on a stem, ideal for serving non-alcoholic cocktails and some classic drinks. The flat surface of the drink in a coupe allows you to enjoy the flavor of the drink and also makes it easier to create beautiful decorations on the surface of the cocktail.
Cocktail glasses are a key element of any bar, allowing you to create and serve a wide range of drinks. It is recommended to have a minimum of 4-6 of each type.
Spirits glasses
Serving strong alcoholic drinks requires special glasses that not only emphasize the taste and aroma of the drink but also create the right atmosphere. Here are the main types of glasses that every bar should have for serving spirits:
Shot glasses
Small glasses with a volume of 30-50 ml for serving spirits. Their compact size is ideal for drinking spirits in one sip, which is especially popular in bar culture. The thick bottom of shot glasses not only gives them stability but also allows you to effectively knock the glass against the counter before drinking, which has become a kind of ritual.
Snifters
Glasses with a wide bottom and tapering top, ideal for brandy and cognac. Their shape allows you to warm the drink with the warmth of your hand, which helps to reveal a rich bouquet of flavors.
Tumblers
Versatile, medium-sized tumblers, suitable for whiskey and other strong drinks with ice. Their straight walls and heavy bottom make them convenient for mixing cocktails directly in the glass. The volume of the tumbler allows you to add enough ice to chill your drink without diluting it too much.
Additional glassware
In addition to glasses, several auxiliary items are necessary for the full operation of the bar. These tools not only make the process of preparing drinks easier but also allow you to create more complex and sophisticated cocktails. Here’s a list of additional glassware that every bar should have:
- Pitchers and carafes. For serving water, sangria, or other large-volume drinks.
- Ice buckets. Needed for storing ice and chilling bottles.
- Measuring glasses. Allows you to accurately measure ingredients for cocktails.
- For mixing cocktails. There are two types: Boston (two-part) and Cobbler (three-part).
- Bar Spoons. Long spoons for stirring cocktails.
- Used to separate ice when pouring a cocktail from a shaker into a glass.
Each of these items has its own unique purpose and contributes to creating the perfect drink. For example, the use of measuring cups ensures accurate proportions in cocktails, while strainers ensure a smooth drink texture without ice chunks.
Choice of supplier
When equipping a bar, it is important to choose a reliable commercial barware supplier. A professional supplier will be able to offer not only a wide range of quality barware but also advise on deciding the best set for the specific needs of the bar. In addition, cooperation with a proven supplier guarantees stable replenishment of stocks and replacement of damaged tableware.
Conclusion
A properly selected set of barware is the basis for creating excellent drinks and cocktails. Investing in quality barware will pay off not only in improved drink flavor but also in the overall guest experience. Whether it’s a home bar or a large establishment, having a basic set of barware allows you to create a wide range of drinks and ensure a professional level of service.
Remember that barware is not just functional items, but an essential part of the atmosphere and style of the establishment. Therefore, when choosing it is worth considering not only the practical aspects but also the aesthetic component, which will help to create a unique character for your bar.