For Christmas, J bought me a bar set – cocktail shaker, stainer, ice bucket, jigger and a tray. So I went out a bought a bar guide to figure out some drinks I could mix (amateur bartender that I am). We are pretty understocked on liquor and supplies here at home (there’s a bottle of single malt scotch and about half a bottle of vodka here). Luckily, the bar guide defines what a “well stocked bar” should have. Not so lucklily, this list is intended to supply all the drinks needed for a three hour party for 20 guests. I’ve pared it down somewhat to what I think a home collection should have to last…

Beverages Flavorings and Garnishes
1 750 ml bottle bourbon
1 750 ml bottle blended Canadian whisky
1 750 ml bottle blended Scotch
2 750 ml bottles London Dry Gin
2 750 ml bottles vodka
1 or 2 750 ml bottle of liquers, such as Amaretto, Benedictine, Chartreuse, Chambord, Frangelico, Irish Cream, etc.
1 750 ml bottle dry vermouth
1 750 ml bottle sweet vermouth
White wine
Red wine
Lemon-lime soda
Coke / Diet Coke
Ginger Ale
Tonic Water
Club Soda
Orange Juice
Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Grapefruit Juice
Tomato Juice
Ice
Angostura bitters
Green Cocktail Olives
Cocktail Onions
Grenadine
Horseradish
Lemons
Limes
Sweetened Lime Juice
Maraschino cherries
Oranges
Pepper
Salt
Sugar
Tobasco
Worcestershire sauce