Now, let’s talk what, exactly, you need. If your plan is to have a fully stocked bar, here’s a list of the basic spirits, liqueurs, and mixers to buy:

 

Spirits

 

• Vodka

• Gin

• Tequila (100% blue agave)

• Rum (both light and dark)

• Bourbon

• Scotch (both blended and single malt)

• Cognac

 

Liqueurs

• Vermouth (both dry and sweet)

• Cointreau

• Disaronno

• Campari

 

Mixers

• fresh lemons and limes

• Simple syrup: Make by dissolving equal parts water and sugar over heat—it keeps for several weeks in the refrigerator.

• Bitters: A traditional aromatic like Angostura gives you the most versatility.

• Club soda, tonic water, cola, or ginger ale. Or, if you like artisanal mixers, companies like Fever Tree and Q Soda make delicious flavored sodas.

 

Tools

In addition to the right spirits, you’ll need the right tools to whip up great cocktails. The most important one to have is a Boston Shaker, which consists of a metal tin accompanied with a mixing glass. I prefer it to those fancier shakers with the flat top and strainer, because you can get a better seal when shaking and the glass can be used for other techniques, like muddling or stirring.

Other important tools to have include:

 

• Jigger (I recommend a 1 oz. and 3/4 oz. combo)

• Muddler

• Bar spoon

• Hawthorne strainer

• Citrus peeler

• Handheld citrus press