While a classic shaker, mixing tools, and ice are perfectly functional, modern technology has introduced an exciting array of gadgets designed to revolutionize your home bartending experience. From automated machines that craft cocktails in seconds to intelligent coasters ensuring the perfect pour, these smart devices promise to elevate your home bar setup.
Bartesian Cocktail Maker — $349
The idea of summoning a cocktail with the press of a button might sound futuristic, but it's a reality with devices like the Bartesian Cocktail Maker. As one of the most popular robotic bartenders on the market, it can prepare a custom cocktail in approximately 30 seconds.
Simply fill the designated reservoirs with your preferred spirits, then insert a cocktail capsule containing a pre-mixed blend of juices, bitters, and extracts. (An eight-pack of capsules, yielding eight drinks, typically costs around $20.) Use the intuitive touchscreen to adjust your drink's strength, from a non-alcoholic mocktail to a strong pour, then press "mix" to enjoy your personalized beverage.
iGulu — $549
For beer enthusiasts, there's an undeniable satisfaction in sipping a brew you've crafted yourself. The iGulu automated beer brewer takes the complexity out of home brewing, making it accessible even for complete beginners. It operates with pre-packaged ingredient kits that provide everything needed: extracts, hops, bitters, dry yeast, and ground grains. Just add the contents and water, and the iGulu handles the rest.
Each kit is designed to brew one gallon, or eight pints, with fermentation times ranging from 7 to 13 days depending on the recipe. The device features a built-in container that keeps your freshly brewed beer cold and fresh for at least 30 days. For advanced control, connect the brewer to its companion app to monitor fermentation time, carbonation levels, and adjust the temperature as needed. Beyond beer, the iGulu is surprisingly versatile, capable of producing hard apple cider, kombucha, fruit wine, and even non-alcoholic options like fermented tea, sparkling water, and yogurt.
Barsys Smart Coaster — $69
From the creators of a high-end robot bartender, the Barsys Coaster offers a more budget-friendly solution for achieving perfectly balanced cocktails. This smart coaster is designed to help users avoid overpouring by guiding them through each step of a recipe.
Connect the coaster to the Barsys app, select your desired cocktail recipe, place a glass on the coaster, and follow the illuminated prompts that indicate precisely when to start and stop pouring each ingredient. It's an invaluable tool for aspiring mixologists seeking consistency and precision.
Smokpub Electric Smoker — $55
Elevate your drink presentation and flavor profile with the Smokpub Electric Smoker. Whether you're aiming for a sophisticated smoked cocktail or a nuanced whiskey, this gadget adds a unique touch to your home bar offerings.
The Smokpub allows you to infuse drinks with rich smoky flavors without the need for open flames. Simply load it with your choice of wood chips—available in varieties like oak, apple, hickory, cherry, pear, and beech—place the safety cover over your glass, press the electric ignition, and let the aromatic smoke transform your beverage.
SipVault Smart Liquor Dispenser — $55.95
While perhaps not the flashiest gadget, the SipVault automatic dispenser is a highly practical addition to any home bar. It ensures consistent pours and helps prevent spills, especially when you're mixing multiple drinks or hosting a gathering.
This smart dispenser is a reliable choice for maintaining accuracy and tidiness, making it easier to manage your spirits and avoid accidental mishaps, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable bartending experience for both you and your guests.
