DIY Home Bar: What Every Girl Needs

Photo by: Condé Nast Archive

GARNISHES

A martini may forego vermouth but don't even think of serving it without a lemon zest or green olives. Some garnishes impart flavor, others just plain sex appeal.

Invest in some quality green olives which can be stuffed with anything from blue cheese to almonds. Mixologists favor the Spanish Queen olives for a martini.

Fresh ginger is key to a Moscow Mule. Citrus twists or wheels (crosswise

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Photo by: Condé Nast Archive

GARNISHES

A martini may forego vermouth but don't even think of serving it without a lemon zest or green olives. Some garnishes impart flavor, others just plain sex appeal.

Invest in some quality green olives which can be stuffed with anything from blue cheese to almonds. Mixologists favor the Spanish Queen olives for a martini.

Fresh ginger is key to a Moscow Mule. Citrus twists or wheels (crosswise slices) are more than decorative: they add an essential oil flavor to the drink. Fresh herbs such as thyme sprigs or piney rosemary twigs also add texture and flavor to a cocktail. If you're going to go with mint, DeGroff says spearmint leaves stand up to a cocktail better than other mint varieties. Consider crisp cucumber and celery stalks as well. You'll also need brown sugar cubes for Champagne cocktails and rim salt for margaritas.

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