No question that this is going to be expensive, but there are some things you can do to try 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 people can’t tell the difference between a twenty dollar bottle of scotch and two hundred dollar bottle of scotch. The truth of the matter is that most don’t care.

Basic Liquors

These are a must to have in any home bar. With them, you can mix many a fine drink and they are the basis of most mixed drinks, cocktails, and shots.

• Vodka
• Gin
• Rum
• Whiskey
• Tequila

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

Beyond Basic Liquors

These are not absolutely essential to have on hand, but some of your guests may well ask for them. They also afford you a wider variety of drinks and shots that you are able to serve.

• 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. Trying to stock high end scotch is a difficult task if you do not know what you're looking at and can also get very expensive. Guests that drink high end liquor know what it costs and will forgive you if it is missing from behind your home bar.

Liqueurs and Cordials

• Blue Curacao
• Midori
• Cointreau
• Grand Marnier
• Triple Sec
• Kahlua
• Bailey’s Irish Cream
• Peach Tree
• Puckers
• Amaretto
• Chambord
• Frangellico
• Crème de Menthe
• Crème 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 Drinks and Mixers

• 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

Don’t buy the huge cans of juice, stick with the 8oz size. You will find them to last longer without spoilage. Obviously, if you are going to throw a big shindig, then buy enough for that. Milk and cream cannot be stored, so purchase them as needed and in small sizes.

Garnishes and Condiments

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

Most of these can be stored for long periods in either the refrigerator or on a shelf or cabinet behind the bar. The fresh fruits will have to be 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.