While you might not be a cocktail king just yet, there’s a lot of merit in faking it until you make it. After all, bartending is 80 per cent looks and 20 per cent drinks.

There are many cocktail shaker options out there. Boyle suggests using a shaker with two metal tins: “This will ensure that your ingredients stay nice and cold, and there is less likelihood of your ingredients leaking out as you shake”, says Boyle. Shake cocktails to cool it down, add dilution and incorporate air into the mix. Hawthorn and Tea Strainers are the best way to filter the cocktail into your glass and avoid messing up all around.

While there are so many ingredients out there to experiment with, starting off with simple recipes will set you up to understand how different flavours work together. “Campari is a great option as not only does it taste superb with its fruit and bitter flavours, it can be used in so many cocktails that require only a few ingredients”, Boyle explains. Take a Negroni for example, it’s only three ingredients and all equal parts; Campari, gin and vermouth rosso.

Some of the best cocktails are stirred down, e.g. Martini, Negroni, or a personal favourite, the Martinez. Boyle gave his thoughts on the importance of a quality insulated mixing glass: “beyond the aesthetic look, the glass needs to be made from thick glass to keep your drink cool when filled with ice and provide enough space to stir properly”.

Every single ingredient added to a cocktail makes a difference, and fresh juice is so important for tasty drinks. “The quality of the drink is only as good as the quality of the ingredients, and fresh citrus helps to elevate any cocktail”, says Boyle. Elbow presses are easy to use and clean, and a staple for any cocktail connoisseur in training.

Invest in some moulds that make larger, thicker cubes. Ice can play an important role in diluting your drink but can also run the risk of messing with the consistency. For some cocktails, a large ice cube plays a huge role not only with the aesthetic, but it dilutes the drink for optimal taste. “If you’re a fan of strong drinks and enjoy sipping, I suggest investing in Whiskey Rocks”, Boyle states.  

The most important element of a home bar is having your favourite spirits on hand. Boyles favourites include  gin, rum, Campari, sweet and dry vermouth. “The fun part about cocktail making is experimenting with the unique flavours of each, so do your research and test out different combinations until you nail your signature concoction”, Boyle says.