Sunday, September 7, 2008

How To Stock A Home Bar

Without a doubt, people are back to enjoying cocktails! After several years of taking a "backseat" to beer and wine,it is apparent that the trend is moving towrd mixed alcoholic drinks. Because of this trend, it is now more important than ever for home bar owners to keep a well stocked bar. This article will focus on the essentials of stocking your home bar.

We'll start with some common sense selections. You'll want 750 ml bottles of rum,bourbon,gin,vodka, a Canadian blended whiskey, scotch, and tequila. Unless you frequently entertain serious martini drinkers, the gin and vodka don't have to be "top-shelf" brands. Ditto for the bourbon and rum. However, you might want to consider a 100% agave tequila and a single malt scotch, as these types are obviously better tasting. For your Canadian blended whiskey, add one that is 12 years old for guests that like their whiskey on the rocks.

With regard to other alcohols, you'll want both a sweet and dry vermouth. Brandy and cognac are important, too. However, watch yourself when purchasing cognac and brandy. You can spend a fortune and you don't have to. Go for the lower end brands, unless expensive brands are your personal preference.

Definitely keep 750 ml bottles of a red wine and a white wine. Good general choices would be a Cabernet for the red, and a Chardonnay for the white.Beware when selecting liqueurs, as they are pricey. Try to select the liqueurs that accompany popular drinks. For example, Triple Sec for Margaritas, Kahlua for Black Russians, Creme De Cacao for Brandy Alexanders, Blue Curacao for almost any blue drink etc. etc.Non alcoholic beverages are also a must. These would include drinks such as Coke and 7-up in 12 oz cans.

Mixers such as tonic water and club soda in individual serving containers should be added. Don't forget the fruit juices! Large 64 oz containers of orange, cranberry and grapefruit should do the trick. Finally, bottled waters and Bloody Mary Mix should round things off.Your bar wouldn't be well stocked without garnishes and other additives. Purchase maraschino cherries, cocktail olives, and onions, all in 10 oz jars. Go ahead and get some Angostura Bitters(4 oz jar), Rose's Lime Juice(12 oz), coarse salt, and superfine sugar.

Wow! I think you're done for the present. You can add miscellaneous items as needed. This basic list should put you in a great light the next time you entertain, Oh yeah, I almost forgot, ALWAYS drink sensibly.

Take Advantage Of My FREE report: "Living It up On A Budget- 23 Wines That Deliver Outstanding Quality For 10.00 or less!"

No comments: