Journal
Guides & bar culture
Original guides for SEO and readers — home bars, ingredients, pubs and winter hosting. Pair with the cocktail generator when your shelf is oddly stocked.
- Journal·1 min read
Cocktails for people who hate sweet drinks
Sweet cocktails aren't for everyone. Here are dry, bitter, and savoury drinks that skip the sugar and hit hard with spirit, citrus, and herbal depth.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
Cocktails for people who hate bitter flavours — sweet & fruity options
Bitter cocktails don't appeal to everyone. We've found the sweetest, fruitiest drinks that skip bitter liqueurs and focus on sugar, citrus and flavour instead.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
Highball vs Collins vs Rocks Glass: When to Use Each
Confused about which glass to use for your cocktail? Learn the practical differences between highball, Collins, and rocks glasses—and when to reach for each one. Perfect for home bars and pub-style entertaining.
Read article → - Pubs & bars·1 min read
Mason Jar Cocktails Presentation Tips: Serve Like a Pub
Mason jars are a rustic, cost-effective way to serve cocktails at home. Learn how to present, chill, and garnish them for a polished bar-style look.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
Fine Mesh Strainer for Cocktails: When & Why You Need One
A fine mesh strainer removes tiny ice shards and pulp from cocktails for a silky texture. Learn when to use one and why bartenders swear by them for professional home results.
Read article → - Home bar·1 min read
Hawthorne vs Julep Strainer: Which One for Your Home Bar?
A Hawthorne strainer has a spring coil and fits most cocktail shakers, while a julep strainer is slotted and sits inside the mixing glass. Choose based on your shaking style and preferred cocktails.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
Japanese Style Bar Spoon: Why Use One
A Japanese bar spoon is a long, twisted-handle tool that beats the mixing glass and keeps drinks cold without dilution. Learn why pro bartenders and home bars prefer them over standard spoons.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
Stainless Steel vs Glass Mixing Glass: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between stainless steel and glass mixing glasses affects temperature control, durability, and the cocktails you serve. We break down the pros and cons of each for your home bar setup.
Read article → - Journal·1 min read
How to Clean Cocktail Shaker Smell: Easy Methods
Persistent odours in cocktail shakers ruin your drinks. Learn proven methods to eliminate stale spirit, citrus, and egg white smells using common household items.
Read article → - Ingredients·1 min read
Why Freezer Ice Tastes Bad & How to Fix It
Freezer ice often picks up unwanted flavours and odours, ruining your cocktails and drinks. Learn why this happens and the simple fixes to get crystal-clear, neutral ice every time.
Read article → - Ingredients·1 min read
Ice Ball Moulds vs Large Cubes for Cocktails
Ice balls and large cubes transform your home bar cocktails by melting slowly and keeping drinks cold without dilution. Learn which shape suits your spirits and hosting style.
Read article → - Culture·1 min read
Best Oxo Good Grips Jigger Alternatives UK 2025
Oxo Good Grips jiggers are brilliant, but UK bartenders have plenty of alternatives worth exploring. We've tested budget, premium, and specialist options to help you find the right measuring tool for home bars.
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