7 Essentials for Every Modern Home Bar

Base spirits don't need to be basic. Take this storied vodka, born in the Netherlands in 1983 and first made by the 10th Generation of the Nolet family, who have operated the Nolet distillery for more than 330 years ago in the Netherlands. The wheat-based spirit is now distilled using both modern and old-school methods (copper pots), while retaining its same pristine taste: smooth, citrusy, and perfect for both cocktails and sipping straight. Tip: Keep fresh herbs, like rosemary or mint, on hand to add seasonal freshness to vodka-based drinks.

It's easy to go overboard and stock up on loads of tools and gadgets for a home bar. But you can think of this thoughtfully designed shaker as your cocktail all-in-one. The double-walled stainless steel construction is insulated to keep the ice cold inside and your hands dry outside; the leakproof twist top and built-in strainer make for easy pouring.

Every home bar needs Scotch—and a good place to start (or end) is the iconic, slightly smoky Johnnie Walker Black Label, with its gentle, creamy toffee notes. Made with single malt and grain whiskies from Scotland, it's aged for 12 years to get that classic vanilla-and-spice fragrant flavor and distinctive warming finish. Turn it into a perfect highball, or serve it neat—just make sure you always have enough.

High above sea level in the Jalisco region of Mexico, surrounded by verdant agave plants with a coa (or hoe) in hand, is how one would typically find Don Julio González, the founder of this now-legendary distillery. He would tend to each leaf, checking to see when it was at its peak and ready to turn into his famed tequila. The Blanco is a perfect representation of his work, made with 100 percent blue Weber agave. Crisp and citrusy, it's welcome in any glass.

Consider this double-sided tool your right hand at the bar—in fact, it's a go-to in many a highbrow cocktail spot around the world. Crafted with stainless steel, it accurately and cleanly measures liquids in one- and two-ounce pours, with interior markers for smaller amounts. Bonus: The sleek jigger is easy to maneuver, thanks to its lightweight, streamlined design.

Fun fact: This Canadian distillery was initially founded as a gift to the king and queen of England back in 1939. And this whisky continues to be a gift—try the delicate, fruit-forward liquor in a hot toddy, mint julep, or on the rocks. Crown Royal relies on local rye, corn, and barley for its five mash bills, which are then distilled, aged, and blended together into the rich, oaky final product.

No home bar is complete without a set of truly stunning glasses from which to sip your favorite cocktail, and Waterford is a classic for a reason. With a storied 200-year history of handcrafting luxury crystal, you'll be joining the next generation of glassware aficionados when you sip your next martini from one of these beauties.