Hasta La Ideas

Like many neurotic aesthetes, I use different gear when I’m hosting and when I’m by myself, and and drinking is no exception. Despite the best efforts of talented and patient bartender friends, my tastes in drinking are decidedly utilitarian (read: lazy) and I’m not likely to break out a Tom Dixon-y cocktail shaker on my own when I can just muddle along in a glass. I’m not proud of my over-poured Old Fashioneds, but most well-designed barware feels like the haptic equivalent of clocks without numbers and the well-marked alternatives often feel crappy. Enter HOST, a design project I wish were real. 

Designed by Ryan Hume, the HOST shaker is a drinker’s multi-tool that doesn’t lose sight of the clean barware edge. It incorporates measurements in both cap and glass, and a reversible silicone citrus juicer and strainer built in. There’s also a bottle opener in the base, which seems like it might potentially be tricky to clean, but I appreciate the gesture.

Most importantly, it seems like it would get me to make myself less boring or regrettable drinks without getting out the crystal.