15 Best Cocktail Smoker Kits For Adding Depth to Drinks in 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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There are many ways to amp up a cocktail. One method is incorporating smoky flavors using the best cocktail smokers to add dimension to the drink.
These machines work by igniting pieces of wood or sawdust to create smoke and infusing the cocktail inside a container. Different flavors depend on the wood used for combustion, but they generally add savoriness or fruity smokiness to your favorite tipple!
In this blog post, we'll review the best cocktail smoker kits, provide tips for buying and using such kits, and answer some burning questions about them. So, whether you're a novice or not, read on for some smoke-filled cocktail inspiration!
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: homia Smoking Gun Wood Smoke Infuser Extended Kit Runner-Up: Taigin Cocktail Smoker Kit Best Display: Crafthouse by Fortessa Glass Smoking Box with Handheld Smoker Best For Travel: Smoked Boards Cocktail Smoker Kit Best Compact: Hoedia Smoking Gun Set Best Versatile: COSTWAY 2-in-1 Food Smoker Gun Best for Whiskey Lovers: Busy Bee Deluxe Whiskey Smoker Kit Best Capacity: VELEP Cocktail Smoker Box and Gun Best Construction: Breville BSM600SIL Smoking Gun Easiest to Use: Gramercy Kitchen Company Cocktail Smoker Best Energy-Efficient: MITBAK Cocktail Smoker Set Best for Beginners: Aiernow Cocktail Smoker Kit Best Value: TMKEFFC Smoking Gun Portable Smoker Infuser Kit Best Simple: Middleton SmokeTop Cocktail Smoker Kit Best Ergonomic Design: PolyScience Breville Gun Pro Smoke Infuser |
1. Best Overall: homia Smoking Gun Wood Smoke Infuser Extended Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- TWO SMOKING SPEEDS: Allows the user to control the desired smoke intensity.
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY: Protects customers from any defects or malfunctions.
- PORTABLE DESIGN: Easy to use and carry wherever you go.
- GIFTABLE BOX: Perfect for food and cocktail lovers, mixologists, or anyone who loves experimenting with different flavors.
What We Don’t Like
- The chips need to be more distinct from each other.
What Our Editors Say
"Our favorite thing about this smoking kit is the number of items it features. They come packaged in a beautiful, giftable box, making them the perfect present for any cocktail lover. The smoking gun itself boasts a stable base and an extended hose for maximum convenience.
And thanks to its user-friendly design, this battery-operated tool allows us to infuse any drink with delicious smoky flavors within seconds. We simply press the button and adjust the smoking speeds to our desired level of intensity.
Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Power: Battery | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Smoking gun, dome lid, disk lid, wood chips, AA batteries, extra mesh set, and cleaning brush
Related: The Best Gifts For Bartenders
2. Runner-Up: Taigin Cocktail Smoker Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- HANDHELD DESIGN: Comfortable to hold and allows you to smoke drinks with precision.
- ADJUSTABLE: Good for controlling the intensity of the smoke for different drinks.
- FOUR WOOD CHIP FLAVORS: Air-dried and crushed to the right size for combustion, and have no artificial fragrances.
- LUXURIOUS BOX: Makes it perfect as a gift for any occasion.
What We Don’t Like
- The butane leaks sometimes.
What Buyers Say
“We bought this because it has a flat bottom that fits perfectly in martini glasses. While the design is simple, it produces a lot of smoke in just a few seconds. Additionally, it is very durable, hardly burns wood, and the double-layer filter is very strong.
The torch is difficult to explore on your own, but after reading the manual and video, you can understand it immediately. Plus, the brand offers amazing customer service by replacing defective torches. This set makes a perfect gift for birthdays, Father's Day, Valentine's, etc.”
Material: Beechwood and stainless steel | Power: Butane | What’s Included: Smoke infuser, torch, cleaning brush, filter, and wood chips
Related: The Best Valentine’s Gifts For Boyfriends
3. Best Display: Crafthouse by Fortessa Glass Smoking Box with Handheld Smoker
Why We Think It’s Great
- DOUBLE-SIDED TRANSPARENT DOORS: Adds a striking and engaging element to your cocktail party.
- DURABLE MATERIALS: Glass and a stainless steel frame adorned with a black walnut interior for longevity.
- UNIQUE BOX DESIGN: Sleek and contemporary appearance will wow your guests and bring a touch of class to your bar.
- INCLUDED WOOD CHIPS: You can start smoking your favorite cocktails right away; no need for separate purchases.
What We Don’t Like
- The gun is not long-lasting.
What Our Experts Say
Kelsey Waddell from Winning Homebrew says, “This set was created by a world-class bartender, making it a popular choice among professional bartenders. It features a beautifully designed stainless steel smoking box that adds elegance to your cocktail-making routine.
“The Fortessa cocktail smoking box is equipped with a handheld smoke gun, which allows you to infuse smoke into your cocktail while it is inside the box, creating a dramatic presentation. The kit also includes a glass lid, wood chips, and a recipe booklet to get you started,” she adds.
Material: Stainless and glass | Power: Battery | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Smoking gun, box, wood chips
Related: What To Prepare For Your First Cocktail Party
4. Best For Travel: Smoked Boards Cocktail Smoker Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- THREE WOOD CHIPS: Food-grade and eco-friendly pecan, cherry, and apple wood chips.
- TORCH AND MASON JAR OPERATION: Easily lights the wood chips and captures the delicious smoky flavor.
- HANDCRAFTED SMOKE BOARD: Made from premium American white oak for optimal performance.
- INCLUDED BAG: Designed to fit all the components, perfect for the bartender on the go.
What We Don’t Like
- It is a bit expensive.
What Buyers Say
“The kit contained everything we needed to make our smoked cocktails. Using the torch and smoke board was incredibly easy, and we experimented with different flavors to make our smoky cocktail.
We wish the mason jar used to capture the smoke was a bit bigger so you could make more than one cocktail drink at a time. But that is easily remedied with a larger mason jar. We have so much fun making Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, and friends keep asking for more!”
Material: Oak, metal, and plastic | Power: Butane | What’s Included: Torch, mason jar, smoke board, wood chips, and bag
Related: The Best Bartender Bags
5. Best Compact: Hoedia Smoking Gun Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- COLD INFUSION SYSTEM: Adds a delicately smoky taste without changing the drink's temperature or texture.
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE: Only takes a few simple steps, and you can start experimenting with smoky recipes right away.
- QUICK OPERATION: After assembling, you only need to push the button to release the smoke.
- STABLE STAND: Ensures that it stays in place while you infuse your cocktails.
What We Don’t Like
- The fan gets stuck sometimes.
What Our Editors Say
"What we love the most about this portable smoking gun is the singular non-slip control button that makes it super easy to use, even for those who have never used a smoker before. The included sawdust also provides a delightful hickory flavor to whiskey cocktails and meat dishes.
Furthermore, its compact design is perfect for those who want to enjoy smoked drinks and foods without having to lug around a bulky machine. It's suitable for picnics, traveling, or camping!”
Material: Stainless steel | Power: Battery | What’s Included: Smoking gun, extra filter, small screwdriver, small brush, and sawdust
Related: The Best Whiskeys For An Old Fashioned Cocktail
6. Best Versatile: COSTWAY 2-in-1 Food Smoker Gun
Why We Think It’s Great
- QUIET OPERATION: Built with a powerful motor that lets you make cocktails without any distracting noise.
- DUAL PURPOSE: Good for both smoking drinks and vacuum-sealing food, perfect for bartenders and food lovers.
- ADJUSTABLE SMOKING SETTINGS: Features slow, normal, and fast modes and a light to get the right level of flavor.
- RECHARGEABLE: A USB port makes it a convenient and eco-friendly choice.
What We Don’t Like
- The battery tends to stop operating.
What Buyers Say
“This device has been a game changer in our home bar. The fact that it's rechargeable and doesn't require any battery replacements is a huge plus for us. The device is also very easy to use and clean, making it a breeze to incorporate into our cocktail routine.
Despite being durable and not flimsy, the device is lightweight, so it’s easy to bring on a trip. It also stores easily in a cabinet and can be carried hassle-free, thanks to its ergonomic handle.”
Material: Aluminum and stainless steel | Power: Rechargeable battery | What’s Included: Smoke infuser, smoker hose, vacuum hose, tweezer, charging cable, 2 filters, and vacuum bags
Related: The Best Gift Ideas For Bourbon Drinkers
7. Best for Whiskey Lovers: Busy Bee Deluxe Whiskey Smoker Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: The torch has a comfortable handle and stable base for easy picking up and placing on the table.
- DURABLE OAK: The smoke top can be used for a long time, allowing you to save money.
- SAFE PACKAGING: The items are placed snugly inside a giftable box to prevent damage.
What We Don’t Like
- Wood chips are sold separately.
What Our Editors Say
“We appreciate how the smoke top is crafted from 100% natural wood, which may impart a unique additional flavor to your drink on top of the smoke. The torch also has a comfortable grip that makes it easy to hold even for prolonged use.
Along with the torch and the cocktail smoker top, you'll also have whiskey stones, a whiskey glass, and a bunch of delicious cocktail recipe cards, making it a no-brainer gift for a whiskey or bourbon lover.
Material: Oak/cherry wood | Power: Butane | Manufactured: USA | What’s Included: Smoke top, torch, recipe cards, whiskey stones, velvet pouch, whiskey glass
Related: The Best 10-Year Anniversary Gifts For Him
8. Best Capacity: VELEP Cocktail Smoker Box and Gun
Why We Think It’s Great
- PINEWOOD SMOKING BOX: Sturdy and smart construction with an elegant look.
- EASY TO SET UP: Features simple instructions and doesn’t require any outlet.
- PORTABLE: Easy to carry around, perfect for outdoor adventures.
- COOL SMOKE: Prevents fire hazards and doesn’t change the drink’s temperature.
- GREAT FOR FOOD PAIRINGS: Utilize the food tray for smoking appetizers, main meat dishes, etc.
What We Don’t Like
- The box leaks a bit of smoke.
What Our Editors Say
"This cocktail smoking kit is perfect for big fans of vintage and rustic designs. Unlike other smokers, this one uniquely comes with a chest-like smoking wood box that adds a charming touch to your home bar.
Furthermore, the pine wood construction is sturdy and moisture-resistant, ensuring its durability. It's also convenient because it can fit two cocktail glasses at once, saving time and effort. And we appreciate the versatility, as it includes a food tray for smoking food.”
Material: Stainless steel and wood | Power: Battery | What’s Included: Smoke infuser, smoke box, brush, filters, infusion hose, food tray, screwdriver, wood chips
Related: The Best Whiskey Glasses
9. Best Construction: Breville BSM600SIL Smoking Gun
Why We Think It’s Great
- ADJUSTABLE SPEEDS: Excellent for maximum control over the amount of smoke you want for your cocktail.
- INTEGRATED STAND: Frees up your hands so you can tend to other matters while your drink is smoked.
- EXTENDED HOSE: Allows you to smoke your drink with greater freedom and convenience by keeping the smoker at a safe distance.
- QUICK TO CLEAN: The steel burn chamber can be removed and cleaned in the dishwasher.
What We Don’t Like
- It stops functioning sometimes.
What Our Experts Say
“The best smoker on the market is highly subjective, as different people have different preferences. I like the Breville Smoking Gun, which is good for both home chefs and mixologists.
Moreover, it features a temperature-controlled chamber and a smoke diffuser that evenly distributes smoke into the drink. The device also comes with a set of wood chips, allowing you to experiment with different flavors.”
Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Power: Battery | What’s Included: Smoke gun, nozzle extender hose, burn chamber, replacement smoke screens, wood chips, batteries, instructions, and recipes
Related: How To Flame A Citrus Peel
10. Easiest to Use: Gramercy Kitchen Company Cocktail Smoker
Why We Think It’s Great
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: Constructed with professional-grade aluminum and plastic that is both sturdy and easy to clean.
- PORTABLE: Simple to use whether you are smoking your beverages inside or outside.
- DOWNLOADABLE RECIPE GUIDE: Provides various tips and recipes for smoking cocktails.
What We Don’t Like
- The hose could be longer.
What Buyers Say
“We were surprised by how well this little smoker worked. We love the flavorful mixture of finely shaved wood chips, which lasted for many uses because a few wood chips can already produce a lot of smoke.
It works great for infusing cocktails with smoke flavor and finishing grilled meats. Moreover, we learned that removing the head of the smoker to clean off the smoky-scented oil that deposits there after use is important.”
Material: Aluminum and plastic | Power: Battery | What’s Included: Smoker, wood chips, cleaning brush, and velvet bag
Related: The Best Scotch Cocktails
11. Best Energy-Efficient: MITBAK Cocktail Smoker Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- THREE SMOKING SPEEDS: Whether you prefer a subtle hint of smoke or a stronger smoky flavor, this kit has you covered.
- RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: Powers with a powerful lithium-ion battery that can be recharged via USB for repeated use.
- WOODEN CHIPS: High-quality, flavorful, and specifically designed for smoking cocktails.
- VERSATILE: Thanks to the included dome, this device can smoke drinks and food.
What We Don’t Like
- It is difficult to clean.
What Buyers Say
“This smoker is a hit for both home and bar use. We like the ease of use and the added flavor that the smoker set provides. Although it is loud, it doesn’t affect the overall function. Moreover, the smoking chips last a long time, making them perfect for experimenting with different flavors.”
We also love having the dome instead of just the nozzle because anything that can fit can get smoked. The smoke fills up the dome and works its way out, so the whole kitchen smells delightfully like a campfire for a while.”
Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Power: Rechargeable battery | What’s Included: Smoke infuser, wood chips, dome lid, recharger cable, burn chamber, detachable hose, and tweezer
Related: How To Use Dry Ice In Cocktails
12. Best for Beginners: Aiernow Cocktail Smoker Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- UNIQUE SMOKER CHIMNEY: Intended for an even and controlled distribution of smoke.
- THICK WOOD MATERIAL: Indicates high quality, leading to multiple uses.
- VERSATILE: Portable and can fit most glasses of varying sizes.
- CHEMICAL-FREE WOOD CHIPS: Ensures that your drinks and food are not contaminated, providing a safer and more enjoyable experience.
What We Don’t Like
- Butane torch is sold separately.
What Our Editors Say
"This smoker may seem simple, but we are surprised by how effective it is in infusing smoke into drinks, thanks to its unique shape. This set also includes a stainless steel filter and four 10-gram containers of wood chips, including apple, oak, cherry, and pecan.
To get the most out of this smoker kit, we recommend using a kitchen torch rather than a lighter, as it creates a more consistent flame and propels air to allow the smoke to come into contact with the surface of the drink faster.”
Material: Oak and stainless steel | What’s Included: Smoker chimney, stainless steel filter, and wood chips
Related: The Best Alcohol Infusion Kits
13. Best Value: TMKEFFC Smoking Gun Portable Smoker Infuser Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- COMPACT STRUCTURE: It's small enough to take with you wherever you go, whether you're using it in your kitchen, bar, or for outdoor activities.
- EASILY OPERATED: Doesn't require any complicated process or outlet, only a push of a button.
- QUICK ASSEMBLY: Allows you to use it immediately so you can enjoy your drink or food.
What We Don’t Like
- The hose could be longer.
What Our Editors Say
“The first thing we like about this smoker is its easy one-button operation. And since it’s powered by batteries and has a compact design, it’s a convenient unit to carry around and doesn't take up too much space on your counter or luggage.
We also appreciate the natural smoking chips that provide a delightful smoky flavor in seconds. And because the fan filters the heat as the smoker operates, the result is a cold smoke that doesn't affect the drink’s temperature or the food’s texture.
Material: Stainless steel | Power: Battery | What’s Included: Smoking gun, cup cover, wood chips, small screwdriver, mesh screens, cleaning brush, smoke nozzle, rubber tube, and instruction book
Related: The Best Cocktail Making Kits
14. Best Simple: Middleton SmokeTop Cocktail Smoker Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- SOLID AND THICK: Made with American cherry wood that is durable and shows pretty wood grains.
- QUICK SMOKING: Its efficient operation can infuse drinks within seconds.
- EASY TO MAINTAIN: Doesn’t require extensive cleaning and is easy to store, thanks to its small size.
What We Don’t Like
- It is pricey.
What Our Editors Say
"This cherry wood smoke infuser imparts a rich and intense smoky flavor that engages all our senses. The cherry theme is enhanced with the bag of cherry smoking chips that's enough to smoke 50 drinks or more.
But what we love most about this kit is the unique design of the smoker top. The flat bottom is attached to a narrower chimney-like part, ensuring the smoke stays concentrated on the drink and doesn't escape the cocktail glass, cocktail shaker, or mixing container."
Material: American cherry wood | Manufactured: USA | What’s Included: Smoke top, mesh screens, and wood chips
Related: The Best Boston Shakers
15. Best Ergonomic Design: PolyScience Breville Gun Pro Smoke Infuser
Why We Think It’s Great
- TURN DIAL CONTROL: Allows you to adjust the intensity of the smoke from 5.3 to 15.1 meters per second.
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN: The integrated stand is great for comfort and stability, while the extender hose provides optimal distance.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Features a one-piece, removable anodized aluminum smoking chamber that is dishwasher-safe.
- LESS NOISE: Equipped with a heavy-duty metal blower fan with a low-noise motor to prevent distractions.
What We Don’t Like
- It produces a lot of smoke and may not be great indoors.
What Our Experts Say
Weng Lee, beverage director and general manager of Halifax, comments, “I look for cocktail smoker kits that are aesthetically pleasing because we use it in front of the guests, and it’s part of the experience.”
“At Halifax, we like to use the Breville Polyscience Smoker Gun because it has a blow fan built in it, and we can put the smoke wherever we want, such as a glass, bottle, or jar.”
Material: Stainless Steel | Power: Battery | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Smoke gun, extender hose, wood chips, batteries, replacement smoke screens, instructions
Related: The Best Drinking Glasses
Final Verdict
These days, it's common to see bartenders and mixologists using cocktail smokers at bars, and it's not hard to see why. Cocktail smoker kits are the perfect way to add depth, flavor, and flair to your drinks.
If you need help making a quick decision, we recommend our top pick, homia Smoking Gun Wood Smoke Infuser Extended Kit, because it contains everything you need to smoke a cocktail, and you can rely on each item’s quality.
Which cocktail smoker kit will make its way to your bar or kitchen? Let us know what your choice/s are below.
Best Cocktail Smoker Kits Buying Guide
If you're new to cocktail smokers, buying one may be just as intimidating as using it. So to help you condense your choices and ultimately end up with the best kit, here are some of the factors to consider:
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Size
While the size of the smoker is not necessarily indicative of its quality, it is important to choose a size that will suit your needs. If you are only smoking a few cocktails at a time, a small smoker and dome will suffice. However, if you plan on smoking large quantities of cocktails, you will need a larger device.
The size of the smoker will also determine how easy it is to take with you on the go. A smaller set will be more portable and easier to transport, while a larger kit may be more difficult to carry.
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Power Source
Battery-powered smokers are usually very portable, making them perfect for cocktail-making on the go. However, they can be expensive to operate over time because the batteries die, and you'll need to make sure you have enough batteries on hand to keep the smoker running.
On the other hand, rechargeable smokers are similar to battery-operated smokers, but they save money since you don't have to buy batteries often.
Then there are smokers that need butane-powered torches that are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. But they can be dangerous if not used properly.
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Accessories
Accessories are essentially what make a cocktail smoker a part of a kit. They are usually in the form of wood chips, a dome, a smoking lid, replacement mesh filters, a hose, and more.
Tural Hasanov, mixologist and director of Punch, says, “Consider the type of fuel used in the kit, whether it is wood chips or pellets. Different types of fuel can affect the flavor of the smoke, so it's important to choose one that complements the ingredients in the cocktails you plan to make.”
Furthermore, if you want to experiment with different kinds of wood chips or smoking times, having extra accessories on hand can be very helpful. You'll be able to use them for longer and get more out of them, and they also make fantastic gifts to the cocktail enthusiast.
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Controls
“The control mechanism of a smoker kit can impact the type and intensity of smoke flavors you can achieve. This includes adjustable airflow or smoke intensity settings, which can give you more control over the level of smokiness in your cocktails, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking,” notes Kelsey Waddell.
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Ease of Use
The whole point of having a cocktail smoker kit is convenience and efficiency. The best cocktails smokers will be easy to set up and use, so you can get started right away.
Small smoking guns or torches are easy to hold and can quickly light up the smoking chips. But it can be difficult to refill them with butane, so you have to follow instructions carefully.
On the other hand, bigger cocktail smokers are also easy because they can be settled on the table and only require one button push. But if they have adjustment settings, you need to know your preferred intensity to have consistent smoke.
Cocktail smokers should also be easy to clean, so you don't have to spend hours scrubbing after every use. A compact and lightweight design would also be helpful to save space and for effortless carriage.
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Price
“It’s important to know how much you’re willing to spend on the kit, so you can narrow down the options,” says Luke Slater.
“You should also consider the components of the kit, such as the type of smoker, the size of the smoker, and the accessories included. If you’re planning to use it frequently, then you might want to invest in a larger, more expensive model,” he adds.
In general, you get what you pay for when it comes to smoker kits. More expensive kits tend to be made with higher-quality materials and include more features. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that the most expensive kit is the best option for everyone.
If you're just starting to smoke cocktails, you may be fine with a less expensive starter kit. But if you're an experienced mixologist looking to take your cocktails to the next level, you'll probably want to invest in a higher-end kit.
Best Cocktail Smoker Kits FAQ
1. How to maintain a cocktail smoker?
It's important to clean your smoker from time to time, so any unpleasant smell or particles will not build up and become difficult to remove and to avoid clogging the motor.
Most smokers also have a screen that occasionally needs replacing if it's already worn out or becomes too burnt. After using the device, store it in a secure place along with the accessories to prevent losing any pieces.
2. Which cocktails are best to smoke?
Though any cocktail can technically be smoked, some drinks are better suited to the task than others. The most prominent examples would be the Old Fashioned and Manhattan.
The smoke also works well with spicy flavors, making the Bloody Mary a natural choice. And, of course, no list of smoked cocktails would be complete without the Martini. Gin and vermouth are both fairly light-bodied spirits, so the smoke doesn't overwhelm the drink.
3. What is the ideal length of time to smoke a cocktail?
The standard smoking time for cocktails is two minutes. However, the ideal length of time to smoke a cocktail is ultimately a matter of preference.
You can smoke the cocktail for longer if you want a stronger flavor. But if you prefer the lightest smoke flavor, you can smoke it for 20-30 seconds. Some people even like to experiment with different times to find the perfect balance for their taste.
4. What kind of wood to use when you smoke cocktails?
The type of wood to use for your smoked cocktail depends on the recipe. Apples are great because of their ability to smoke slowly and provide a delicate flavor. Meanwhile, cherry is an excellent choice if you’re looking for subtle notes in your drink.
Hickory will bring out more spice while still being able to work with many cocktail recipes, while Mesquite provides the perfect balance to enhance the drink. You can also get creative by trying herbs like sage, rosemary, or thyme for a more natural flavor!
Cinnamon bark is also an excellent choice if you want to add some extra spice to your dish, while nutmeg will make anything taste better with its nuances.
Why Trust Advanced Mixology?
We believe that our readers should have access to unbiased, well-informed reviews when deciding which products to buy, and we work hard to provide that type of content. Our editorial team is experienced and passionate about mixology and bar equipment. In addition, we often consult with industry professionals when gathering information, which gives us an insider's perspective on the products we're reviewing.
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