Hosting An IPL Watch Party? Here's The Ultimate Bar Essentials Checklist
Cricket fanatics don’t like watching the game alone, especially if it’s the Indian Premier League. With the new season knocking on our doors, die-hard cricket fans must be expecting their living rooms to become the liveliest stadium in town, and they wouldn’t mind competing for the title of the ultimate IPL viewing party. But a cricket match without some mean drinks and a bar stocked to impress would be an abomination. With our ultimate IPL party bar essentials checklist, you can make your gatherings as thrilling as a sixer on the last ball.
The Spirit Assortment
Having a well-stocked bar sets a strong foundation for the drinks that will flow throughout the evening. For big groups, pick spirits that tend to be crowd favourites: Smirnoff vodka for celebratory shots, Johnnie Walker Black Label for those who like a delicious whisky sour, or a bottle of Tanqueray gin for some pretty-looking and dynamic drinks. And let's also remember the trusted Captain Morgan rum, always keeping things interesting. With these bottles on your team, you are sure to impress your guests.
Mixer Magic
Cricket and cocktails might sound like an irresistible idea, but there are cricket fans who prefer to have fun with non-alcoholic drinks. Your reliable players are Ginger Ale, Smirnoff Lemon Pop, Tonic Water, sodas (both plain and flavoured), and cola for getting the classic mixes right.
Garnish Galore
The devil's in the details, folks. Lemons, limes, and oranges aren't just for a pop of colour; they're the finishing touch that can elevate a drink from good to ‘Can I have another?’ Fresh mint, a jar of maraschino cherries, and olives add that bar-quality finish to your cocktails, making them Instagram-worthy.
Glassware Goals
Serving whisky neatly in a beer mug? Blasphemy! Ensure you have the right glass for the job. A mix of highball glasses, rock glasses, and a couple of martini glasses should cover your bases. And for the beer aficionados, a few pint glasses will make sure the brews are enjoyed as intended.
Ice, Ice, Baby
Never, we repeat, never underestimate the power of ice. It's not just about keeping drinks cold; it's about respecting the craft. Have plenty of it ready, and if you're feeling fancy, invest in an ice mould for those large cubes that melt slower and keep your whisky company longer.
Bar Tools for the Win
No bar is complete without the tools of the trade. A shaker, jigger, muddler, and strainer are your starting lineup. They're the difference between mixing drinks and crafting cocktails. And let's not overlook the humble bottle opener and corkscrew—they're the unsung heroes of any party.
Snack Attack
Last but definitely not least, snacks. A bowl of nuts or chips is fine, but why stop there when you can serve mini samosas, chicken wings, or even some homemade dips? Remember, the way to a cricket fan's heart is through their stomach.
With this checklist, your IPL party is guaranteed to be a hit, both on and off the screen.
