15 Best Cocktail Making Kits Delivered To Your Door In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Cocktails are a great way to unwind after a long day or to celebrate a special occasion. But if you don’t have the time or energy to go out and buy all the ingredients necessary to make drinks, just order a cocktail making kit!
These kits contain the main ingredients of your favorite cocktails, either with or without alcohol, that provide convenience and fun to drinkers. You also get to be creative with the items in the box and improve your bartending skills at home. Here are the best cocktail making kits delivered to your door!
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Shaker & Spoon Honeur Abricot Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- UNIQUE RECIPE: Developed by world-class bartenders and mixologists and features uncommon but excellent ingredients.
- INCLUDES A SPOON: Crafted from sturdy zinc with a sleek finish and is adjustable for measuring different ingredients.
- COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTIONS: Includes a detailed recipe card that explains interesting facts about the cocktail, how to make it, and guides for additional information online.
- IDEAL FOR GROUPS: Produces eight servings, which can be shared with friends and family.
What We Don’t Like
- Shipping costs extra.
What Our Editors Say
“Although Shaker and Spoon specializes in monthly subscription boxes that make three different cocktails using one type of alcohol as a theme, we like that they also offer individual cocktail kits featured in a specific box at a more affordable price.
Their Honeur Abricot cocktail has a Jamaican twist on the classic Old Fashioned and requires spiced rum. The included apricot jam and apricot bitters meld beautifully with the rum’s vanilla flavor, while the orange bitters and lemon oil add sophistication to the overall drink. We also appreciate how they provide brand recommendations for the rum and food pairings.”
Alcohol Theme: Rum | Servings: 8 | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: The Best Rum Cocktails for Fall
2. Runner-Up: Cocktail Courier Your Patio Friend Sangria Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- THREE KIT OPTIONS: Available in the mini kit, just the mix kit, and the classic kit.
- INCLUDES COCKTAIL POUCHES AND STRAWS: Pour your concocted drink inside the pouch and bring the drink anywhere.
- COMPLETE INGREDIENTS: Mixers, base alcohol, and even the garnish are included in the kit; no more hassle!
What We Don’t Like
- It charges delivery and tax fees.
What Our Editors Say
“We appreciate how Cocktail Courier provides various options on the type of kit to cater to different people with individual preferences. You can also choose their monthly subscriptions that offer benefits such as a 20% discount.
Our favorite part about this kit is that it is complete, from the alcohol to the garnishes. The pouches are also a plus; we appreciate the included stylish straws, which make the pouch concept more practical. The mixers are wonderful, too, as they are of high quality and do not have an artificial taste.”
Alcohol Theme: Lambrusco | Servings: 2-8 (depends on the kit) | Includes Alcohol: Yes
3. Best Compact: The Cocktail Box Co. Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- EASY TO CARRY: Comes in a compact tin for flights and travels.
- MONEY BACK GUARANTEE: Provides a hassle-free exchange/return policy, making refunds simple.
- INCLUDES TOOLS: Includes three sharp cocktail skewers, a stirring spoon, and a handmade cocktail napkin.
- SERVES 6 GLASSES: Contains enough ingredients for a small gathering.
What We Don’t Like
- The bottles leak sometimes.
What Buyers Say
“This travel set offers everything you need to enjoy your happy hour on the go. We think it’s great that the company accepts custom orders, so you can design the kits according to your design, branding, etc.
Every kit has been flawlessly packaged, with clear instructions and all the flavor essences, bitters, and other ingredients needed to make the concoction. We also appreciate how you can order a cheaper refill kit and just reuse the tin.”
Alcohol Theme: Whiskey | Servings: 3-6 | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
4. Best Variety: Crafted Taste The El Diablo Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- THREE KIT OPTIONS: Choose among the full kit with alcohol, the premium kit with alcohol, or the mixer-only kit.
- IDEAL FOR A BIG GROUP: The kit can create 12 to 16 cocktails depending on the recipe.
- FULL-SIZED MIXERS AND SPIRIT: They don’t come in mini bottles, so that you can use the leftovers for other cocktails in your bar.
- COMES WITH RECIPE CARDS: Guides mixology beginners to concoct the various cocktails perfectly.
What We Don’t Like
- The alcohol is shipped separately from the mixers.
What Buyers Say
“I bought this kit as a gift for my husband, who’s into crafting cocktails, and he loved all the different ingredients and the bitters. I think these kits are amazing as gifts and additions to liquor cabinets.
The ingredients provide a very clean and yummy taste without a heavy syrup texture. We surely enjoyed the various cocktails, and the customer service is amazing!”
Alcohol Theme: Mezcal | Servings: 12-16 | Includes Alcohol: Depends on the kit
5. Best for Food Pairings: Haus The Spritz Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- FOUR APERITIFS: These varieties feature fragrant notes on the nose and complex flavors on the palate.
- USES FRESH, NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Carefully sourced from reliable growers and distributors that also supply prestigious restaurants.
- VERSATILE: Can be served on the rocks or used as a cocktail base or mixer.
- SUSTAINABLE: Production is powered with geothermal energy from The Geysers, and the packaging and bottles are recyclable.
What We Don’t Like
- There are no mixers and garnishes.
What Our Editors Say
“The thing we like most about Haus is that they care about the environment. They produce their products while protecting forests and other natural resources. Plus, up to 90% of their packaging is recycled.
We love that the Spritz Kit features four flavors - Lemon Lavender, Citrus Flower, Pomegranate Rosemary, and Rose Rosé. Each of the aperitifs is uniquely flavorful and has distinct notes that are not overbearing on the tongue. Also, they’re great to drink on their own, but they can even be better when added with mixers!”
Alcohol Theme: Aperitif | Servings: 8-12 | Includes Alcohol: Yes
Related: What is an Aperitif?
6. Best Gift: Mouth Just Add Champagne Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- VARIETY OF MIXERS: Each mixer is from a different brand, improving the kit’s flexibility.
- INCLUDES TWO CHAMPAGNE FLUTES: Both are stemless and conveniently dishwasher-safe and BPA-free.
- GIFTABLE: Packaged in a sturdy, sleek-looking, gift-ready box.
- MAKES VARIOUS CHAMPAGNE COCKTAILS: Mix and match to produce a variety of cocktails, such as Bellinis.
What We Don’t Like
- It doesn’t come with recipe cards.
What Buyers Say
“We gave this kit along with a lovely bottle of bubbly to our friends’ wedding because we wanted to incorporate a personal touch to the gift. And we’re glad to know that they loved it!”
The recipient of this gift absolutely appreciated the kit. I also had some great customer service support on the phone right after I ordered this box online, and I appreciate the speedy delivery to my friend who lives many miles away.”
Alcohol Theme: Champagne | Makes: 5-8 | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: The Best French Champagne Bottles
7. Best for Beginners: American Cocktail Club American Mule Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- TITO’S HANDMADE VODKA: Includes four mini bottles of this top-shelf, world-renowned vodka.
- EXCELLENT MIXERS: Includes Volley tequila seltzer, made with organic Peruvian ginger juice and the brand’s premium, all-natural, gluten-free, and vegan spicy mule mixer.
- PACKAGE CUSHIONING: Absorbs shock and provides extra protection for the cocktail ingredients.
What We Don’t Like
- The seltzer slowly turns flat even when making just one cocktail.
What Our Experts Say
Andrew Olson, CMO/Head Mixologist at Hook Hand Rum, says, “I really like cocktail kits that break things down into individual ingredients. This allows people to get the real experience of making a cocktail and will help them realize how approachable and simple some of the classics are. It builds confidence and lets people learn cool party tricks!”
“American Cocktail Club is doing a great job of this right now. They offer boxes with pretty much everything you need to create a high-quality cocktail. Add in some awesome packaging, and people are truly in for a treat. Plus, you can make a one-time purchase for a friend or even set up a monthly subscription if you want some variety on your Saturday nights,” he added.
Alcohol Theme: Vodka | Servings: 4 | Includes Alcohol: Yes
Related: Vodka Mixers: Drinks That Pair With Vodka
8. Best for Parties: Saloonbox The Ultimate Negroni Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- MANY SERVINGS: Ideal for multiple guests at gatherings.
- FULL-SIZED BOTTLES: The package ingredients can be used to make other cocktails if desired.
- MAKES TWO KINDS OF COCKTAILS: Utilize the ingredients to make the classic Negroni, or make a variation, Teagroni, by adding the tea and cinnamon.
- COMPLETE INGREDIENTS: Includes alcohol, mixers, and garnishes.
What We Don’t Like
- The alcohol is shipped separately and is sometimes delayed.
What Our Editors Say
“Saloonbox provides a unique experience to sample spirits you haven't tried before. Some of the most skilled bartenders in the industry are the geniuses behind their recipes and selecting their brands. And their Negroni cocktail kit is a testament to their dedication and creativity.
We think the dehydrated oranges were a great idea because they give the cocktail a more dramatic look and wonderful aromas. It’s also great that they innovated with the ingredients to provide two different cocktails in one kit, and both recipes are delectable!”
Alcohol Theme: Gin | Servings: 12 | Includes Alcohol: Yes
Related: The Best Dehydrated Fruit Garnishes
9. Best for Tiki Lovers: Box on the Rocks Mai Tai / Zombie Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS: Making cocktails is made easy and quick with the guide, which includes three recipes (Mai Tai, Zombie, and Caribbean Collins Mocktail) and spirit recommendations.
- MULTIPLE INGREDIENTS: Comes with juices, syrups, bitters, and dehydrated blood orange wheels.
- TIKI-THEMED ACCESSORIES: Includes ceramic tiki zombie glass and stylish tiny umbrellas.
- GIFTABLE PACKAGING: Sturdy and organized box enhanced with a clean and cute design.
What We Don’t Like
- The shipping adds to the cost.
What Our Editors Say
“Box On The Rocks believes mixology should be made easy and accessible for mixology fans, so they focus on making their products as quick and easy as possible. The kit doesn’t include the base alcohol, but we appreciate that they provide brand suggestions, making things easier.
We’re also glad the instructions were comprehensive, which benefits beginners. Plus, the tiki glass and parasols are amazing because they’re such in theme, with the former being a great Halloween accessory. We also love how the ingredients effectively make delicious and attractive drinks.”
Alcohol Theme: Rum | Servings: 10+ | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: The Best Tiki Supplies for Summer Cocktails
10. Best for Brunch: Bardega Cocktail Club Poppin' Bottles Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- LONG SHELF LIFE: The syrups are contained in pouches that close tightly, making them last in the refrigerator for months, if not years.
- COMPLETE NON-ALCOHOLIC MIXERS: No need to worry about complicated state laws on liquor shipping, so you can choose the liquors of your choice.
- GOOD FOR 12 DRINKS: You can make the cocktails all at once or every other day.
- THREE DIFFERENT RECIPES: Impress your guests with the Bubbles All Day, Victory Punch, and Killin' It cocktails!
What We Don’t Like
- Shipping costs extra for some purchases.
What Our Editors Say
“Bardega Cocktail Club believes that cocktails are universal and only require creativity and passion for the craft. That’s why they offer kits, like the Poppin’ Bottles, so cocktail enthusiasts can learn and enjoy the versatility of different ingredients and ultimately make great drinks.
We like this kit for its simplicity, and the flavors of the syrups are superb. Moreover, the cocktail recipe cards feature the recipes and provide alcohol suggestions. The cocktails featured in this kit are refreshing and vibrant and keep the party going!”
Alcohol Theme: Sparkling Wine | Servings: 12 | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: The Best Champagne Brands
11. Best Simple: Cheeky Cosmopolitan Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- NO COMPLICATED STEPS: Contains two bottles (one syrup and one juice) that only need to be mixed with vodka to make a tasty Cosmopolitan.
- REAL LIME JUICE: Unadulterated, meaning it has not been watered down or made from concentrate.
- BAR-GRADE SYRUPS: Nearly identical to syrups you'd find in a bar, perfect for accurately recreating classic cocktails.
What We Don’t Like
- They are a bit pricey for the size.
What Buyers Say
“Cheeky Cocktails is the best gift to send to friends and family whom I can't be with. I am usually the resident bartender at gatherings, but I can’t make everyone smile with my cocktails these days because of the lockdown. At least I can send them a Cheeky Cocktail kit and watch them smile and laugh, trying to determine how to make them as good as I do!”
Alcohol Theme: Vodka | Servings: 5 | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: Cosmopolitan Cocktail Recipe
12. Best Botanical Flavors: The Seedlip & Ginger Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS: Meticulously chosen natural ingredients, such as herbs, spices, peels, and barks.
- MAKES FLAVORFUL MOCKTAILS: Alcohol-free alternative drinks that still offer sophisticated and unique flavors.
- HEALTH-FRIENDLY: Clear of the common allergens, such as nuts, crustaceans, and gluten, and is sugar and calorie-free.
- EASY TO MAKE: Just top with ginger ale, tonic, or soda.
What We Don’t Like
- The flavors are too strong when consumed neat.
What Buyers Say
“The Grove 42 and Spice 94 are my favorites of the Seedlip trio! They’re not comparable to liquor, but they do allow people to enjoy a "grown-up" beverage when they're not drinking. Also, they’re fun to play with mixology!
They have an amazing complex taste that is very versatile to use in a collection of mixed drinks. The set was shipped very quickly and arrived fast and in great condition, too. Overall, it’s a great quality for the price paid, and I would highly recommend it.”
Theme: Spices and Citrus | Servings: 12 -14 | Includes Alcohol: No
Related: Tonic Water vs. Club Soda
13. Best for Whiskey Lovers: Griffo Distillery Smoked Honey Whiskey Sour Cocktail Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- FUN TWIST ON A CLASSIC: Enjoy a delicious and richer variation of whiskey sour using Griffo Stout Barreled Whiskey and Bittermilk's #3 Smoked Honey Whiskey Sour Syrup.
- VERSATILE INGREDIENTS: Make other cocktails using the ingredients in the kit and mix them with juices and garnishes of your choice.
- FULL-SIZED BOTTLES: This allows you to use the leftover spirit, syrup, and bitters for other recipes.
What We Don’t Like
- Kits with spirits can only be shipped within California.
What Our Editors Say
“The Griffo family combines art, science, and commitment to make complex spirits the way they want them! We appreciate how they distill their liquors in small batches using only the finest ingredients and put them in kits so people can enjoy unique and flavorful drinks.
Their Smoked Honey Whiskey Sour Cocktail kit includes alcohol, syrup, bitters, and soda that you can apply to many drink variations. But we recommend trying their suggested recipe first, and you’ll see how Griffo Stout Barreled Whiskey contributes a depth of flavor to the classic cocktail.”
Alcohol Theme: Whiskey | Servings: 12 | Includes Alcohol: Yes
Related: Must-Try Whiskey Sour Recipes
14. Best Splurge: Bitters and Bottles The Sharpie Mustache Kit
Why We Think It’s Great
- MAKES MANY SERVINGS: The full-sized bottles are enough to make a glass or two of cocktails at a time, while you can save the leftovers for different drinks on the following days.
- CHRISTMAS THEMED COCKTAILS: The ingredients share a common flavor profile suitable for winter and Christmas drinks.
- INCLUDES A RECIPE CARD: Follow the recipes included in the kit if you don’t know where to start with the cocktails.
What We Don’t Like
- It requires other mixers to create different cocktails.
What Our Editors Say
“Bitters and Bottles conveniently offers bar essentials from spirits to bar tools and kits composed of expertly curated liquors. One example is their Sharpie Mustache kit, which is as interesting as its name.
We think the components of this kit are unique and versatile, including Rittenhouse Rye, Fords Dry Gin, Bonal Gentiane-Quina, Amaro Meletti, and Bittermens Tiki Bitters. You could craft various cocktails with these ingredients or stick with the recipes on the included card.”
Alcohol Theme: Rye Whiskey and Gin | Servings: 10+ | Includes Alcohol: Yes
15. Best Tropical: Sourced Craft Cocktails The Malibu Piña Colada
Why We Think It’s Great
- INCLUDES ACCESSORIES: Comes with a sturdy jigger to help measure ingredients and a pineapple cup to maintain the theme!
- COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE: Their recipes are developed by their in-house mixologists and bartenders, which can be easily replicated using the included step-by-step instructions.
- QUICK TO MAKE: Simply mix the rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream mixer with a cocktail shaker or blender.
What We Don’t Like
- The pineapple cup is not always available.
What Our Editors Say
“With their easy-to-use products and fast delivery, Sourced Craft Cocktails wanted to make it easier to make and enjoy cocktails anywhere. We appreciate that they take all the stress and trouble out of making craft cocktails by curating excellent and tasty ingredients and tools.
Their Piña Colada kit includes premixed pineapple juice and coconut cream packed in one bottle, which we think is smart, so there are fewer bottles to deal with! The pineapple cup is adorable, too, and if you add in the sprinkles, your drink will look extra festive!”
Alcohol Theme: Rum | Servings: 6-12 (depending on the kit) | Includes Alcohol: Yes
Related: Piña Colada Cocktail Recipes
Final Verdict
Making delicious drinks has never been easier with the best cocktail making kits delivered to your door. You can also share the thrill of these sets by giving them as gifts to fellow cocktail enthusiasts.
Shaker & Spoon Honeur Abricot Kit is a great option for those who want to make delicious cocktails at home without having to buy a lot of separate ingredients. The kit contains everything you need to make classic cocktails, including a recipe card and a measuring spoon.
What is the best cocktail making kit for you? Let us know in the comments.
Best Cocktail Making Kits Delivered To Your Door Buying Guide
There are countless delicious cocktails from many kits to choose from, so to avoid becoming overwhelmed, allow these factors to help you narrow down your choices.
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Theme
Most cocktail kits only offer a single type of cocktail with one or two alcohol bases. Deciding what cocktail you want to drink would be easier if you have a liquor preference. For example, if you are a vodka lover, you can choose a Moscow Mule kit.
You can also have the seasons as your theme. If it’s summertime, you may opt for a tropical drink such as a piña colada.
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Contents
Cocktail-making kits come in a few varieties. The most basic sets include the ingredients needed to make a specific drink, while more comprehensive kits also include glassware, tools, and instructions for different cocktails.
A basic kit is a good start if you make cocktails at home. You can then upgrade to a more comprehensive kit that will help you take your skills to the next level. Also, if you have already decided which cocktail to indulge in, check if the kit includes all the ingredients you'll need to make them.
Some kits don’t include alcohol but feature mixers, garnishes, and tools. However, some people don’t mind because they’ll be free to choose whatever alcohol they like, according to their budget and preference.
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Servings
Most cocktail kits can make about 1-12 cocktails, depending on the volume of the mixers and other ingredients. Others will include a 750-ml liquor bottle and sufficient ingredients to make about eight or more drinks. Choose a kit depending on whether you’ll have a solo drink or imbibe with friends.
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Price
The quality of the ingredients and tools and the size of the kit influence the price. While it's possible to find cheap kits that include everything you need to get started, the quality of the ingredients and tools is often lower than what you would find if you bought them separately.
Spending a little extra on a higher-quality kit will pay off in terms of taste and durability in the long run. However, some affordable kits offer fantastic ingredients and tools, which is great if you have a tight budget.
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Shipping
While it’s very convenient that cocktails kits will be delivered to your home, some will come at a price. Other companies offer free shipping, but the additional costs will depend on the package’s weight for those who don't.
If the kit includes more ingredients or liquor bottles, it will be heavier, thus a bigger fee. You can choose any kit you want if you don’t mind paying an additional fee.
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Restrictions
Some states prohibit the shipping of alcohol, so it’s wise to check first if your place of delivery is one of those states. If so, choose those kits that don’t include alcohol. However, if your state is fine with alcohol delivery, you’ll have more kits to choose from.
Some companies also require at least a 21-year-old person to sign the package once it arrives. If you’re not at home and no one of that age is there to sign it, they bring the package back to their store, and the customer will have to pick it up there.
Cocktail Making Kits FAQ
1. What is the purpose of cocktail making kits?
If you’re a cocktail lover and want to make your favorite drink without relying on bartenders or pre-made mixes, a cocktail-making kit is what you need. It also provides a hands-on experience as opposed to canned cocktails because you are making the cocktail yourself and learning about bartending and mixology. These kits are also used for entertaining guests with your signature drinks at home.
2. Why don’t some brands deliver alcohol?
Some US states have laws that prohibit alcohol shipping or delivery. With this, companies are limited to where they can sell their services, so some opt to leave out the alcohol in their kits. Another reason is that including alcohol would increase the shipping costs of each kit.
3. What bar tools are required to make cocktails?
The basic bar tools required to make cocktails are a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, bar spoon, and muddler. The tools will depend on the type of cocktail, and some will require more or less of what’s mentioned.
If you are a beginner, you can’t entirely rely on a cocktail kit to make the drink because some of them don’t include the necessary tools. So, you need to buy them separately beforehand. But if you are an expert, you can skip on some of the tools, like the jigger, and rely on your skills.
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.
Read Next: The Best Cocktail Shakers
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