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How to set up your home bar: 10 things you need to know (part 1)
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How to set up a home bar
Let's face it, you need a home bar. You do. Just imagine the possibilities. Classic cocktails at your fingertips, ready for any and every occasion.
And setting up your home bar is easier than you think. All it takes is the right tools and a few good spirits and you'll be ready to go. Let's start with the liquors, mixers, and other liquids that you'll need to get started, then we'll move on to tools and techniques. Here are the first five things you need to know.
10. Good liquor doesn't come in a plastic bottle. It just doesn't. 1.75L plastic bottles won't do anyone any good, no matter how much money you save.
9. Cover the basics. Even if you don't like gin, get gin. You should stock a bottle of vodka, gin, rum, tequila (yes, tequila) and whiskey or bourbon. This gives you the basic spirits to meet anyone's needs. And eventually you'll find that with the right components, you do like gin (or tequila).
8. Pick your liqueurs wisely. You can do a lot with a select few liqueurs. You don't need every liqueur under the sun. You can make an astounding array of drinks with three: brandy, triple sec, and vermouth. Keep in mind that there are a lot of different options out there even within these three liqueurs. To start with, get a decent bottle of each. Over time, you'll develop a palate that knows what you like and what you don't. And eventually you can start making your own, if you feel so inclined
7. Get one high end obscure liqueur. And then figure out one cocktail to make with it. That's all you need, one bottle and one cocktail. Whether it's Elderflower, Absinthe or Anise, find one you like and stock it. This will, time and time again, impress your guests and help to establish your credibility as a cocktail enthusiast.
6. Use Bitters. The most popular brand is Angostura, which is the classic version from Trinidad. The recipe is a tightly guarded secret, but it has the ability to add complexity and balance to your drink if used properly. There are also flavored bitters out there such as blood orange and grapefruit which are less versatile, but have a similar effect. Get bitters and learn how to use them.
Stay tuned for the rest of the list...
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