mixing drinks

How to Stock a Home Bar

Those who enjoy having friends over and entertaining guests know that having a well stocked home bar is essential. There are no hard and fast rules for what to have in a home bar and most people simply build a collection based on what drinks they and their guests most often enjoy. But if you're starting from scratch and are looking to create a well-rounded bar ready for any occasion here's what you'll need to get started.

Equipment
Bottle opener
Wine Key
Cocktail/Martini Shaker
Ice Bucket
Jigger
Blender
Cutting board
Paring knife
Coasters
Napkins
Drink straws/stirrers
Dishtowels
Toothpicks

Glassware - How many to stock of each depends on usage and personal preference, but the list is generally ordered from most frequently used at the top to least frequently used at the bottom.
Highball glasses
Pint glasses
Rocks glasses
Wine glasses
Martini glasses
Brandy snifters
Shot glasses

Mixers - Most mixers are best stocked in small or single-serve sizes so they stay fresh for long periods and limit waste when you open one for a single drink.
Club soda
Tonic water
Cola
Diet Cola
Lemon/Lime soda
Orange juice
Tomato juice
Cranberry juice
Margarita mix
Bloody Mary mix

Tags: alcohol, bar, cocktails, drinks, entertaining, entertainment-pedia, home bar, main-pedia, mixing drinks, stocking a home bar