No question that this is going to be expensive, but there are some things you can do to keep the cost more moderate. You might begin by stocking only the basic liquors. And, in any case, you do not need to purchase the premium brands at their whopping premium prices. If you really like them though, purchase enough for you and perhaps the one or two guests that can tell the difference, most can't tell and don't care.

The Basics

These are a must to have in your bar. With them, you can mix many a fine drink.

Vodka Gin Rum Whiskey Tequila

These will go fast so stock a few bottles of each in reserve.

Not So Basic

These are secondary liquors that are the drink of choice for a few, but you could do without them.

Scotch Brandy Cognac Irish Whiskey Jagermeister Rumplemintz

Should you not be a scotch or cognac drinker you can steer clear of the high priced brands. If you try to stock the really expensive brands, you may not hit on the one that the few guests that do drink them prefer, so just don't do it.

Liqueurs and Cordials

Blue Curacao Midori Cointreau Grand Marnier Triple Sec Kahlua Bailey's Irish Cream Peach Tree Puckers Amaretto Chambord Frangellico Crme de Menthe Crme de Cacao Anisette Vermouth

Most of these can be found for less under the brand name of Mr. Boston. The great thing about stocking all of these liqueurs is the large number of different drinks that can be mixed with them. Since only a small amount is used for each drink, they should last a long time.

Non-Alcoholic Mixers and Drinks

Grenadine Sour Mix Lime juice Cola Diet Cola Red Bull Orange juice Pineapple juice Cranberry juice Grapefruit juice Tomato juice Sprite or 7up Soda Tonic Ginger Ale Cream Milk

Buy the 8oz cans of juice so they won't spoil unless you are throwing a big bash and expect a heavy volume of drinks to be served. The milk and cream will have to be purchased as needed.

Garnishes and Condiments

Cherries Olives Cocktail onions Bitters Worcester sauce Tabasco sauce Salt Pepper Lemons Sugar Limes Oranges Picks and stirs

Most of the these can be stocked a long time in either the refrigerator or in a cupboard in the bar. Of course, fresh fruit should be bought as you needed and replenished as used.

Okay, now you are properly stocked. Time to throw a party and show off your fine bar and your fine bartending skills.

For info on how to build a bar check out the basement bar pictures at BPO.

Posted under Wine