Equipment Authority

Barware & Glassware Reviews

We evaluate cocktail shakers, strainers, glassware, and tools using the same structured scoring system applied to spirits — measuring durability, ergonomics, material quality, and real-world performance.

How We Score Gear

Each item is rated on build quality, usability, material integrity, design efficiency, and long-term durability. Scores reflect structural performance — not brand hype.

Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds (2.5-Inch)
85
Excellent
Ice

Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds (2.5-Inch)

Tovolo

Silicone sphere molds that produce crystal-clear 2.5-inch ice balls — the format that chills a whisky or Old Fashioned while melting slowly enough to preserve the drink across a full 30-minute sip.

$22 Read more →
Libbey Signature Kentfield Highball Glass Set
Glassware

Libbey Signature Kentfield Highball Glass Set

Libbey

A set of six slender, weighted highball glasses purpose-built for Collins builds, Highballs, and sparkling cocktails — the most-reached-for glass on a well-stocked home bar.

$36 Read more →
OXO Good Grips Angled Measuring Jigger
87
Excellent
Measuring

OXO Good Grips Angled Measuring Jigger

OXO

An angled measuring jigger with interior markings readable from above — the most practical measuring tool for home bartenders who want accuracy without lifting the jigger to eye level.

$12 Read more →
Libbey Nick & Nora Cocktail Glass
82
Excellent
Glassware

Libbey Nick & Nora Cocktail Glass

Libbey

A classic stemmed cocktail glass with a rounded bowl that sits between a Martini and a coupe — ideal for stirred-down drinks served without ice.

$11 Read more →
Cocktail Kingdom Fine Mesh Double Strainer
Bar Tools

Cocktail Kingdom Fine Mesh Double Strainer

Cocktail Kingdom

A small-bowl fine-mesh strainer that eliminates ice chips, fruit pulp, and herb fragments for a perfectly clear, professional-quality cocktail presentation.

$16 Read more →
Elevated Craft Hybrid Cocktail Shaker
79
Very Good
Shakers

Elevated Craft Hybrid Cocktail Shaker

Elevated Craft

A double-walled, vacuum-insulated shaker that keeps ice frozen longer and eliminates condensation — built for slow sessions and outdoor entertaining.

$65 Read more →
Riedel Rocks / Old Fashioned Glass
91
Outstanding
Editor's Pick
Glassware

Riedel Rocks / Old Fashioned Glass

Riedel

A machine-blown crystal rocks glass from Riedel's Vinum line — thick enough to hold a large format ice cube, elegant enough to elevate any spirit served neat or on the rocks.

$28 Read more →
OXO Steel Hawthorne Strainer
80
Excellent
Bar Tools

OXO Steel Hawthorne Strainer

OXO

A workhorse Hawthorne strainer with a tight coil, comfortable grip, and enough spring tension to hold reliably against any shaker tin.

$14 Read more →
Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Cobbler Shaker
88
Excellent
Shakers

Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Cobbler Shaker

Cocktail Kingdom

A Japanese-influenced cobbler shaker with a fine built-in strainer, mirror-polished finish, and the kind of seating tolerances that professionals actually respect.

$48 Read more →
Waterford Lismore Whisky Decanter
90
Outstanding
Editor's Pick
Decanters

Waterford Lismore Whisky Decanter

Waterford

A hand-cut Irish crystal whisky decanter from Waterford's flagship Lismore pattern — a centerpiece piece that elevates any spirits display and makes a meaningful gift for serious collectors.

$195 Read more →
OXO Steel 3-Piece Cocktail Shaker
84
Excellent
Editor's Pick
Shakers

OXO Steel 3-Piece Cocktail Shaker

OXO

A no-nonsense Boston-style shaker with a built-in strainer that handles everything from Margaritas to Negronis without leaking on your bar cart.

$32 Read more →
Cocktail Kingdom Teardrop Bar Spoon
95
Outstanding
Editor's Pick
Bar Tools

Cocktail Kingdom Teardrop Bar Spoon

Cocktail Kingdom

A 40cm Japanese-style bar spoon with a teardrop counterweight — the gold standard for stirring technique and the most-recommended tool in professional cocktail programs.

$18 Read more →
Glencairn Whisky Glass
96
Outstanding
Editor's Pick
Glassware

Glencairn Whisky Glass

Glencairn Crystal

The official glass of whisky, adopted by every major distillery in Scotland and now the global standard for nosing and tasting single malts, bourbons, and ryes.

$13 Read more →