Old Fashioned Kits That Make Bourbon Cocktails Effortless
The Barconic Old Fashioned Kit stands out for its complete set of tools and premium ingredients, ideal for beginners and seasoned mixologists alike. Its main advantage is the inclusion of a large 34 ounce mixing glass and a proper bar spoon, which makes stirring and straining effortless. The main limitation is that the included syrups are shelf stable but not as complex as fresh made simple syrup.
Old fashioned cocktails are a timeless classic, but making them well requires the right tools and ingredients. An old fashioned kit bundles everything you need, from a mixing glass and spoon to bitters and syrups, so you can craft a perfect drink every time.
We compared the most popular kits on Amazon, looking at what each one includes and how well it performs based on specifications and owner feedback. Whether you are a home bartender or looking for a gift, this roundup will help you find the kit that suits your style.
The best picks, ranked
Barconic Old Fashioned Kit with Bar Tools and Bitters
This kit includes a 34 ounce glass mixing beaker, a weighted bar spoon, a jigger, a strainer, and three types of bitters. It also comes with two syrup bottles and a recipe card. Owners report that the glass is thick and the tools feel sturdy.
Pros
- Large mixing glass for multiple drinks
- Sturdy weighted spoon for smooth stirring
- Variety of bitters to experiment
Cons
- Syrups are not as rich as homemade
- Recipe card is basic
Crafthouse by Fortessa Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit
Fortessa’s kit features a crystal clear 14 ounce mixing glass, a forged spoon, and a precision jigger. The included bitters are from a renowned brand. The kit is known for its elegant packaging, making it a great gift.
Pros
- High quality crystal glass
- Elegant gift presentation
- Precise jigger measurements
Cons
- Smaller glass for single drinks
- No syrup included
Good Cook Old Fashioned Cocktail Mixing Kit
Good Cook offers a simple kit with a 16 ounce glass, a spoon, a jigger, and a strainer. It does not include bitters or syrup, but it covers the essential tools at a low cost. Owners appreciate its simplicity and value.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- All essential tools included
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- No ingredients included
- Glass is not as heavy
Mixology & Craft Old Fashioned Kit with Wooden Box
This kit comes in a wooden box with a 16 ounce glass, a spoon, a jigger, a strainer, and a small bottle of aromatic bitters. The wooden box adds a rustic charm and keeps tools organized. It is a popular choice for housewarming gifts.
Pros
- Beautiful wooden gift box
- Everything fits neatly
- Includes bitters
Cons
- Box may be bulky
- Glass is not dishwasher safe
Tossware Old Fashioned Bar Tool Set
Tossware’s set includes a 24 ounce mixing glass, a bar spoon, a jigger, and a Hawthorne strainer. It is designed for high volume use, with a thick glass and heavy duty tools. Owners who entertain frequently appreciate its durability.
Pros
- Large capacity glass
- Heavy duty construction
- Ideal for entertaining
Cons
- No bitters or syrup
- Slightly heavier to handle
Bariana Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit
Bariana provides a complete kit with a 16 ounce glass, a spoon, a jigger, and a strainer, plus a set of three syrups (simple, demerara, and maple) and a bottle of bitters. The syrups are rich and flavorful, according to owner reviews.
Pros
- Multiple syrup flavors
- Great for sweetening variations
- All in one box
Cons
- Syrups have shorter shelf life
- Glass is on the smaller side
A Bar Above Old Fashioned Kit
This kit includes a mixing glass, a spoon, a jigger, and a small book with cocktail recipes. It also comes with a sample of bitters. The emphasis is on technique and learning, making it ideal for novices.
Pros
- Recipe book is helpful
- Compact size
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Smaller glass
- No strainer included
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Mixing Glass | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Barconic Old Fashioned Kit with Bar Tools and Bitters | 34 oz capacity | Complete all in one kit | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Crafthouse by Fortessa Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit | 14 oz capacity | Premium quality tools | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Good Cook Old Fashioned Cocktail Mixing Kit | 16 oz capacity | Budget friendly basic set | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Mixology & Craft Old Fashioned Kit with Wooden Box | Wooden box with lid | Gift with wooden box | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Tossware Old Fashioned Bar Tool Set | 24 oz capacity | Professional style tools | 8.9 | Check price |
| 6 | Bariana Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit | 16 oz capacity | All inclusive with syrups | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | A Bar Above Old Fashioned Kit | 12 oz capacity | Educational and recipe focused | 8.5 | Check price |
What matters most
Common questions
What is included in a typical old fashioned kit?
A typical kit includes a mixing glass, a bar spoon, a jigger, and a Hawthorne strainer. Some kits also add bitters, syrup, and a recipe card.
Do I need a special glass for an old fashioned?
The cocktail is usually served in a rocks glass, but the mixing glass in the kit is used for stirring with ice. You can use any sturdy glass for serving.
Can I use the kit for other cocktails?
Yes, the tools are versatile. The mixing glass and spoon are great for stirred drinks like Manhattans. The jigger and strainer also work for shaken cocktails.
How do I make an old fashioned with the kit?
Muddle a sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water in the mixing glass. Add ice and bourbon or rye, stir well, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel.
What type of bitters are best for an old fashioned?
Aromatic bitters like Angostura are the traditional choice. Many kits include a bottle. Orange bitters are a nice variation for a citrusy twist.
Are the syrups in the kits real sugar or artificial?
Most kits include genuine simple syrup made from sugar and water. Some may use cane sugar or other natural sweeteners. Always check the label for ingredients.
Can I buy a kit without the ingredients?
Yes, many kits focus on tools only. This is a good option if you prefer to use your own bitters and syrup.
How do I clean the mixing glass and tools?
Hand wash is recommended to preserve the quality. The glass can be washed with warm soapy water, and the stainless steel tools are typically dishwasher safe, but hand drying prevents spots.
What is the ideal glass capacity for an old fashioned kit?
A capacity of 16 to 24 ounces is ideal because it can hold enough ice and liquid for stirring without spilling. Smaller glasses are fine for single servings.
Are old fashioned kits good gifts for beginners?
Yes, they make excellent gifts because they provide all the essentials and often include instructions. A kit with a wooden box or a book is especially thoughtful.
The verdict
For most home bartenders, the Barconic Old Fashioned Kit is the best choice because it offers a complete set of high quality tools and a variety of bitters at a reasonable price. If you prefer a premium feel and are willing to invest more, the Crafthouse by Fortessa kit is a superb option with crystal glass and elegant packaging. For a budget conscious newcomer, the Good Cook kit provides the essential tools to start making old fashioneds right away.
