These Outdoor Bar Set-Up Ideas Will Ensure You're Always Party-Ready
As the seasons wheel from the crisp edges of winter into the soft bloom of spring, there’s a unique charm to hosting outdoors. The air is neither too chilly nor too warm, and the setting sun paints the sky in stunning hues. It's the perfect time to think about setting up an outdoor bar that not only caters to your guests but does so with a flair that's as refreshing as the season itself. And when it comes to stocking that bar, leaning into certain spirits offers a palette of flavours that can elevate any gathering from simple to sublime.
The key here is versatility—your bar should serve up warmth on the cooler evenings and refreshing coolness as the days grow longer.
The Foundation: Choosing Your Spirits
Start with the basics. A bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label stands ready for those who appreciate character in their drink; its smoky sophistication is perfect for a winter’s night. As the season lightens, a switch to the Johnnie Walker Gold Label with its honeyed tones offers a brighter, spring-like vibe.
Don’t forget the gin lovers. A bottle of Tanqueray London Dry provides a crisp, classic base for a tonic, while the more floral notes of Tanqueray No. Ten can conjure up the essence of spring in a glass.
For rum enthusiasts, a dark Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold can bring a hint of warmth to a cool evening, and as the weather turns, the lighter Captain Morgan White Rum is perfect for mixing into a breezy mojito.
The Setup: Creating the Space
Your bar doesn’t need to be complex, but it should be welcoming. A simple table can be transformed with a linen tablecloth and some strategically placed candles or fairy lights for when dusk falls. Ensure you have a selection of glasses appropriate for the drinks on offer: highballs for the long drinks, tumblers for the neat or on-the-rocks preference, and cocktail glasses for the more intricate creations.
The Mixers and Extras
No bar is complete without a good range of mixers. Tonic water, soda and a selection of juices will cover most preferences. Keep a bowl of fresh lemons and limes on hand, both for their zest and the bright splash of colour they add to your setup.
The Personal Touch
What really sets your outdoor bar apart is the personal touch. Have a signature drink for the evening—something that encapsulates the crossover of seasons. Perhaps a ‘Spring into Summer’ cocktail, using the floral notes of Tanqueray No. Ten, mixed with a splash of soda, fresh lemon juice and a hint of mint. Or for those crisp evenings, a ‘Winter’s Embrace’ whisky cocktail, with Johnnie Walker Black Label, a dash of bitters, and a spoonful of honey, served warm to take the chill off.
As you blend, shake or stir, remember that the perfect outdoor bar isn’t just about the drinks. It’s about creating a space where the last cool whisper of winter meets the warm sigh of spring.
