Photo by Jessie Kriech Higdon
The Basics Good cocktails begin with good spirits. The following are suggestions and not hard-and-fast rules. Well-stocked bars should include the basic clear spirits of: • Vodka • Gin • Blanco tequila • Silver or light rum Brown spirits should include: • Rum • Tequila • Whiskey Whiskey is a very broad category and can include bourbon, rye, Scotch, Canadian whisky, blended whiskies, Japanese whisky, Irish whiskey, or any other whiskey that strikes your fancy. Start with your favorite and add from there. A couple of additional bottles that are helpful could also include: • Dry (also called French) and Sweet (also called Italian) Vermouth for Manhattans and Martinis. • Orange liqueur such as Cointreau or Triple Sec for margaritas and other mixed drinks. • Cream liqueur such as Baileys or Rum Chata for sweeter cocktails or after-dinner coffee additions.
In addition to the spirits, the following items are considered essentials for a well-stocked and versatile bar: • Mixers • Tonic water • Ginger beer • Club soda • Sodas such as cola/diet cola/ginger ale • Simple syrup & Grenadine • Fresh juices like lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, and cranberry Bitters (for Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and any other cocktails) • Aromatic bitters (these can be traditional Angostura bitters or another brand) • Orange Bitters • Any other variety of bitters. There are HUNDREDS to choose from Setting up a bar for the first time can be intimidating, but it can also be a ton of fun. “Stock the Bar” parties are a great way to share favorite bottles with friends, fun holiday gifts, and a sure-fire way to make it to everyone’s “Best Party Ever” list. For no-stress three-ingredient cocktails, visit makeandmuddle.com for all of your cocktail needs! Cheers to less work and more gathering this season! sl slmag.net
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