Necessities for Drinks and Entertaining

Stocking the Liquor Cabinet

Do you have the ingredients for a Manhattan?

A few nights ago my wife decided she wanted a Manhattan. Well, let's see. Bourbon Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Bitters, Orange Peel, and a Maraschino Cherry. We had the Bourbon and Sweet Vermouth (my wife had planned ahead). Alas, we had everything in stock except for the Bitters, the Orange Peel, and the Cherry. FAIL.

This made me think about what a well-stocked bar should consist of (within reason). Here's my list:

Vodka – My friends seem to like Grey Goose, but by all means choose your favorite.
Gin – My brand is Bombay Sapphire, but I hear Tanquery 10 is great also.
Blended Whiskey – my wife likes Seagrams.
Bourbon – Jim Beam, or choose your favorite poison.
Scotch – I gave up Scotch years ago. As I recall, I usually drank JB or Dewars.
Tequila – I'm not a tequila drinker, buy my buddies seem to prefer Patron.
White Rum – Brand isn't important to me. Rum and Coke drinkers don't seem to care.

So, I think that does it for the basics in liquor. These are just for basics. Personally, I'd add an after dinner liquor such as a single malt scotch, and a sweet liqueur such as Amaretto or Kahlua.

Here's what you need to add to make mixed drinks:

Tonic water
Club Soda
Cola
7-up
bitters
grenadine
bloody mary mix
triple sec

Even though this is a “basic” list, it may seem a bit daunting. Start with your favorites…that you know your going to need, add your friends and guests favorites, and then go from there. You could even set up a booze budget and add a bottle or two to the liquor cabinet each month. Replace as needed.

Add a Beverage Center

Now that you've got your liquor cabinet setup, let's look at an inexpensive refreshment center to store some beer, the soda, and perhaps a lime, lemon, etc. Here's a favorite. It's a decent quality and an affordable model that's well-featured.

Vinotemp Beverage Center

VT-BC58SB10

Click on the model number above to go to the UAKC product page for additional information and pricing on this model.

Keep all of your favorite beverages at the perfect serving temperature with the Vinotemp VT-58 Series Beverage Refrigerator. Roughly the size of a dishwasher, the VT-BC58SB10 model beverage cooler features a digital display with push button operation, 3 removable wire shelves, small storage bin, interior light, and built-in capabilities. The stainless steel/black exterior with thermal pane glass door gives a chic and modern look and makes a perfect addition to any kitchen, bar or dining area.

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