How to Stock a Small Bar

Rosenthal Crystal in a Classic Modern Pattern

Not everyone can stock a large wet bar at home. Large bars can include expensive and obscure brands of liquor that are hard to find or may be out of your price range. A large house bar might take up a lot of space that you simply don't have. But you can stock a small bar with the right amount of essential spirits, mixers, accessories and glasses. Even with limited funds and space, you can be a perfect host with a great small bar.

Instructions

1. 

   Stock your bar with the requisite kinds of mid-grade liquor. These include vodka, gin, rum (dark and light), whiskey (and/or bourbon) and tequila. Don't buy the priciest brands. For example, choose Skyy vodka over Ketel One. Choose Tanqueray London Dry (at about $22) over Van Gogh gin (approximately $27). For bourbon whiskey, choose Jim Beam (approximately $17) or Maker's Mark (approximately $29) instead of Old Rip Van Winkle (approximately $50).

2. 

   Add a variety of mixers to your home bar. Be aware of the expiration dates of juices and pops. Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator according to the label's recommendations. Necessary mixers include tonic water or club soda. Sodas include plain and diet cola. On a limited budget, stick with orange juice and tomato juice. Inexpensive versions of lime juice, grenadine and simple syrup are also good to have on hand. If your guests typically enjoy fruity drinks, add a pre-made mix for daiquiris or pina coladas.

3. 

   Stock your bar with a variety of accessories. These finishing touches can enhance a drink's visual appeal and delight guests. Have straws and umbrellas (which can be purchased cheaply in bulk). Also include olives (for martinis), cherries (for fruitier drinks), and lemons or limes (for drinks made with tonic or club soda).

4. 

   Stock up on hardware. Necessary bar tools are a wine opener, bottle opener, metal shaker (strainer optional), measuring device, and four to six shot glasses. For the sake of space and cost, limit your glassware to three basic types: cocktail glasses (commonly used for martinis), old-fashioned glasses (a small size works for most mixed drinks) and hurricane glasses (for larger mixed drinks and fruity drinks). Don't forget cocktail napkins.

Tips & Warnings

• Always have local cab companies' numbers available for guests who may not be in a condition to drive home.

• Never serve alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age. It is illegal.

• Never serve alcohol to anyone who is already inebriated.

• If people drink alcohol in your home, make sure they have a plan to get home safely.