If you're a devoted cocktail connoisseur, these must-have cocktail tools should always have a place in your kitchen. 

A jigger

The correct measuring cups are a mainstay of your cocktail-creating adventures. Called a jigger, this is the usual way to measure out shots. Invest in a good quality jigger, as you'll be using it as often as you make any drinks.   

A technique book

This is always a good thing to have on hand. Technique books not only show you actionable steps to pouring, stirring, and crafting cocktails, but they often give you many recipes to try out, as well. 

A shaker

If a guest asks you for a drink that's "shaken, not stirred," you'll be happy that you have this tool at the ready. There are many different types of shakers out there, some with strainers and some without. A Boston Shaker, in particular, is a classic choice, as it's simple and easy to use, and the glass on top can be used as a mixing glass if needed. 

A strainer

After drinks are shaken, they need to be strained before they should be added to a glass to drink. Keep unsavory bits of ice or pieces of mint leaf out of your drink by straining the liquid first—you'll be glad you did.  

A bar spoon

Don't mistake a bar spoon for a simple soup spoon—these useful tools are long and tapered and meant for stirring. Besides the functionality, they're also quite impressive to look at and show the mark of a true cocktail connoisseur. 

Glassware

Choosing the right glassware can be a complicated (and sometimes confusing) process, but it's one area where your technique book will come in handy. As a baseline, you should have a nice Old Fashioned glass, which are the most versatile. Serve anything from whiskey on the rocks to vodka tonics in them.

This small assembly of tools are the staples you need to create some truly out-of-this-world cocktails. Whether you are having friends over for a nightcap or treating yourself to an after-dinner sip, you'll be sure to drum up something that you can be proud of. 

We also encourage you to drink responsibly. Consumption of alcohol impairs your ability to drive or operate machinery, so never drink before doing these activities.