Bar Tool-Muddler

A muddler is a long, stick-like tool used for muddling ingredients in cocktails, resembling a pestle and typically made from wood, plastic, or steel. If you don’t have one, a wooden spoon or potato masher can work in a pinch. Some muddlers feature teeth for better fruit mashing, but they can shred herbs instead of just releasing their flavors. When muddling, start with a light press to gently release the aromas, then apply more pressure and twist in a circular motion. For limes, you’ll want to really work it to get the juice and oils out, but don’t overdo it—3 to 5 good twists should suffice. When muddling herbs like mint, focus on the veins since that’s where the flavor is, so you won’t need to press as hard.