RCR Combo

First consider whether you only need the mixing glass or the complete set. If you already have a bar spoon and a strainer, the glass is sufficient; if you are starting from scratch, the four-piece set is the logical choice. When choosing a mixing glass, pay particular attention to the thickness of the base: a heavy base keeps the glass stable while you stir and absorbs the cold more slowly, so the ice melts less quickly. Other sizes and models can be found under mixing glasses, and the brand's full range is available under RCR. If you often work for more than two guests at a time, a second mixing glass is more practical than a larger one.

Fill the mixing glass about two-thirds full with large ice cubes, pour in the ingredients, and stir for twenty to thirty seconds with the back of the spoon against the side. You are not stirring to mix but to chill and dilute, so the sound should remain even. Then strain into a pre-chilled glass. This is how you make a negroni or an old fashioned: drinks made entirely from spirits and therefore stirred. As soon as the recipe contains juice, egg, or cream, use the shaker instead.

The mixing glass is made of Luxion, RCR's lead-free crystal glass, which stays clear and handles the dishwasher. Stand it upright in the bottom rack and not upside down against other items, because its weight can make it shift during the cycle. The metal parts of the set are better rinsed by hand and dried straight away, otherwise water marks form. Store the strainer separately so the spring does not deform.

For individual parts, you can look at the bar spoons, and at the cocktail shakers if you also want to shake instead of stir. The complete overview of the tools, with an explanation of each part, is on the bar toolspage. If you're looking for glasses to serve the drink in rather than mix it in, those are the cocktail glasses, where coupes and tumblers are grouped by shape.