Most people have a corkscrew, a bottle opener of some sort and basic glassware. But when it comes to putting together a bar, function is only part of the story. Form, or style, is just as important. And anyone who is going to go through the effort of having quality beer, wine and spirits in their bar should have the same eye-catching, compliment-getting hardware to match. Here are just a few cool bar tools for gift-giving inspiration, including two Nova Scotia retailers (because local gifts are as good as local beer, cider, wine and spirits).
Hermetus bottle opener
The Hermetus is an elegant, simple tool that has one obvious use and one pleasantly surprising one. The Hermetus effortlessly pops the cap off of a beer bottle (or soda bottle) and then glides over the mouth of the bottle to make a tight seal. It will help the home bartender prevent spills and keep a carbonated beverage from going flat. A thoughtful gift!
Nova Scotia Crystal whisky tumbler
The only makers of mouth-blown, hand-cut crystal in Canada, and one of the very few in the world, Nova Scotia Crystal employs the traditional tools and techniques of European crystal makers passed down from generation to generation. The perfect gift of beauty and fine craftsmanship for the whisky lover in your life.
Laguiole Corkscrew
These aren’t the big, clunky, “automatic” wine opening machines you might have seen lately. Rather, Laguiole are classic, folding, manual corkscrews that fit in the palm of your hand—or your pocket. Most recognizable by the little fly decoration that adorns one side of the opener, Laguiole are made with wood, bone or horn. As much a beautiful work of art as a useful bar tool, this is a gift with hundreds of years of history behind it.
Whisky stones
Have a whisky or scotch fan on your gift list? Whisky stones will help them savour their fine whiskies and single malts chilled without diluting their aromas and flavours with melting ice. Whisky stones are soapstone cubes that go from freezer to glass and back again.
Handmade “East Coaster” coasters
Perfect for both the East Coast native who proudly calls this place home and the adventurer who’s moved elsewhere, these coasters are simple and playful memories of home. Six reusable coasters made from heavy-weight coaster board and letterpressed by hand using ink mixed with salt water drawn from the Atlantic Ocean!