Do you like to entertain guests? Do you enjoy a nice drink after work? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then you should consider building a home bar. A home bar can be the perfect addition to any party, and it’s also a great way to relax after a long day.
Home bars are a great way to entertain guests or just enjoy some time with your friends. You can feel like you’re at a fancy bar without having to leave home! However, the process of building a home bar can be overwhelming and expensive.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the essential liquors and mixers that every home bar should have. So, whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to add some new items to your collection, read on for tips on stocking your home bar!
Now that you’ve decided to build your home bar, it’s time to start stocking up on essential liquors and mixers. Of course, the specific liquors you choose will depend on your own personal preferences, but here are a few suggestions to get you started.
The neutrality of vodka makes it a favorite for many cocktails and mixed drinks. There is no quality difference between brands.
Apple schnapps is an American invention, popular in 1950s cocktail culture, that has remained despite its long absence from the scene. It’s used to make many sweet liqueurs and eggnog-type drinks.
American whiskey is made from at least 51% corn which gives it a sweeter taste than other whiskeys such as scotch or Canadian whisky, which are made mostly from barley and rye, respectively. Bourbon is a mainstay in most home bars.
Brandy is a liquor made from distilled wine and typically aged in oak casks. It can be used as the basis for many cocktails or served neat or on the rocks.
Campari is an aperitif, meaning it’s drunk before meals to stimulate the appetite. It’s also used in cocktails such as the Negroni.
Cognac is a type of brandy that must be made in the Cognac region of France from specific grapes. It has a unique flavor and is often used in cocktails such as the Sidecar.
Gin is a clear liquor made by distilling grains such as wheat, barley, or rye. It’s often used in cocktails such as the Martini or Tom Collins.
Rum is a liquor made from sugarcane byproducts such as molasses or sugarcane juice. It comes in a variety of styles and flavors, making it a versatile liquor for many cocktails.
Scotch whisky is made from barley and must be distilled in Scotland. It has a smoky flavor that makes it a popular choice for whisky lovers.
Tequila is a liquor made from the blue agave plant and must be made in Mexico. It’s often used in cocktails such as the Margarita or the Paloma.
Triple Sec is an orange-flavored liqueur that’s made from curacao oranges. It can be used as an addition to many cocktails or sipped on its own.
Vermouth is a fortified wine flavored with spices and herbs, typically enjoyed before dinner with appetizers such as olives or peanuts. It’s also the base for many martinis and Manhattans.
Whiskey derives its name from Gaelic uisge beatha, which means “water of life.” There are many types of whiskey that must adhere to certain standards, including bourbon, scotch, rye, and Canadian whisky.
Wine adds flavor depth to cocktails in the same way bitters do but requires more preparation depending on what cocktail you want to make.
Here are some essential liqueurs to have when building a home bar:
A sweet and nutty liqueur, amaretto is made with apricot pits, almonds, and sugar. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or adding to cocktails.
A rich and indulgent liqueur, the chocolate liqueur is made with chocolate, sugar, and vanilla. It’s delicious, sipped on its own, or added to cocktails or desserts.
A popular after-dinner drink, Irish cream is made with whiskey, cream, sugar, and chocolate. It’s delicious when sipped on its own or added to coffee or cocktails.
A coffee liqueur, Kahlua is made with vanilla, sugar, and coffee. It’s perfect for adding to cocktails or using in desserts.
A Spanish liqueur, Licor 43 is made with citrus fruits, vanilla, and herbs. It’s a great addition to cocktails or can be enjoyed on its own.
An anise-flavored liqueur, Pernod is a must-have for cocktails like the French 75. It’s also great for cooking.
The Black Raspberry Liqueur of France is produced by an infusion of black and red raspberries, vanilla, and honey. The liqueur has a fresh raspberry scent and flavor. It can be added to champagne or any drink calling for a fruit liqueur.
This is a very thick and rich liqueur with an intense chocolate taste, not sweet. It can be used to make various cocktails like the Grasshopper or after-dinner drinks. It is intended that people sip this liqueur neat (straight) by itself.
Cointreau was created in 1849 by Edouard Cointreau, who wanted to create a more refined bitter orange than what existed at the time for use in making Curaçao. By adding sugar, he came up with his original formula, which later became the basis for Cointreau.
Tia Maria is made from Jamaican rum (molasses-based), sugar, and coffee extract. The name of the liqueur means “The Anna.” Tia Maria is perfect for adding to cocktails or using in desserts.
An orange-flavored liqueur that can be found in most liquor cabinets or freezers of homes throughout North America due to its versatility. Triple Sec contains brandy, sugar, vanilla flavors with other natural flavors added. It is often used as a mixer, being recognized for its high quality.
Grand Marnier is made from a blend of Fine Cognacs and natural oranges. The liqueur is then distilled again in copper pot stills. It is said that the secret to Grand Marnier’s unique flavor profile is the addition of “Orangettes” (a type of orange grown in Haiti), which are hand-zedded and added to the blend.
There are many great nonalcoholic drinks that can be used to make delicious cocktails. Here is a list of some essential mixers that every home bar should have:
Soda water is a type of carbonated water that is made by adding carbon dioxide to water. This gives the water a fizzy, bubbly texture and a slightly sweet taste. Soda water has many uses, both culinary and non-culinary, and can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in recipes.
Club Soda is carbonated water that has been flavored with sodium bicarbonate. Club Soda is produced by mixing tap water with chemicals, such as phosphoric acid and potassium salts of citric acid. The mixture is then heated to about 80°F (27°C) before being allowed to cool back down, where it becomes carbonated.
Tonic water is a carbonated beverage that contains quinine, which is used to flavor and treat malaria. Tonic water can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other beverages. It has a slightly bitter taste, but many people find it refreshing.
Cranberry juice is one of the most popular beverages in the world, but it’s also one that many people don’t know much about. Cranberries are tart and sweet at the same time, which makes them a delicious fruit to drink.
Orange juice is a beverage that is often consumed in the morning or afternoon and primarily consists of orange fruit. It is typically made from freshly squeezed oranges but can also be made from canned pureed oranges.
Tomato juice is a popular drink that can be enjoyed on its own or as an addition to other drinks and cocktails. It’s made from tomatoes, water, and lemon juice.
Grapefruit juice is a refreshing drink that tastes great on its own or mixed with other fruit juices. It has many health benefits, including helping to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, preventing cancer cells from forming, reducing the risk of kidney stones, and boosting immunity.
Caramel syrup is a sweet, sticky sauce that can be used in many desserts. It’s made by cooking corn syrup and sugar together until the sugars melt and turn into caramelized liquid.
Hazelnut syrup can be made from a variety of sources, but the most common form is produced by boiling down the liquid extract from roasted hazelnuts. In addition to being used in coffee and tea, hazelnut syrup makes an excellent base for sauces or desserts.
Vanilla extract is a flavoring agent that is derived from vanilla beans. It is used in many types of foods, such as baked goods, ice cream, and candy. Vanilla extract has a sweet, rich flavor that can elevate the taste of many dishes.
In the modern world of alcohol, bars are a dime a dozen. However, some people don’t have the time or patience to go out and would rather stay with friends. For these individuals, building a home bar is an excellent option for hosting parties while saving money on drink prices!
If you are in need of supplies for your home bar, we have tons of them. Check out our wide range of products now!
