Liquor Essentials for a Home Bar - Part II

“Pork. The other white meat.” Perhaps that is how some of you felt after we chose to list white-only alcohols in an earlier blog post. Bro, settle down. We’re chill, diverse, and anti-segregation. Didn’t you see how we listed tequilas and gins in the same article? You good? Right. We’re gonna pick off where we left and add some favorites to the growing collection of necessities to having that perfect home bar. This time, we will peruse some of the more diverse bases that give your future cocktails that creative push. That’s right, scotches, bourbons, and rums deserve a special place in your urinary tract system as well. Where would we be without those rum and cokes in high school (shhhh)? That first ever shot of whiskey we secretly gulped and coughed right back up at 12 years old (shhhh)? And of course, those fine bourbons and scotches we grew so fond of as adults (not shhhh). This paragraph is long enough. Let’s do this!



Bourbons

Building a well-rounded home bar requires a carefully curated selection. These three essential bourbons can set the foundation for diverse and enjoyable whiskey experiences. Start with the iconic Maker's Mark, a wheated bourbon that brings a smooth and approachable profile, making it an excellent choice for both sipping neat or crafting classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds. For those seeking a balance of bold flavors, Wild Turkey 101 is a must-have. Its high proof contributes to a robust taste, featuring a harmonious blend of sweet caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Lastly, include Buffalo Trace as a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. With its complex yet accessible flavor profile, it's perfect for those exploring bourbons, offering a well-rounded taste that can be appreciated on its own or in various cocktails. Together, these three bourbons provide a diverse spectrum of flavors, catering to both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and those new to the world of bourbon.



Rums

Crafting a well-rounded home bar with a Caribbean touch calls for three essential rums that showcase the diversity and richness of this beloved spirit. Begin with a classic like Mount Gay Eclipse from Barbados, known for its well-balanced blend of tropical fruit notes, vanilla, and a subtle oakiness. This versatile rum is ideal for sipping or elevating cocktails. Next, add a touch of Jamaican flair with Appleton Estate Signature Blend. With its robust flavor profile featuring hints of orange peel, warm spice, and a touch of toffee, it adds depth and character to any rum-based concoction. Finally, round out your selection with the smooth and sophisticated Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva from Venezuela. Aged in oak barrels, this rum offers indulgent flavors of toffee, dark chocolate, and vanilla, making it perfect for sipping on its own or creating sumptuous rum cocktails. Together, these three rums create a well-balanced foundation for a diverse and enjoyable rum experience at home.



Scotches

Elevating your home bar to a top-shelf experience requires a carefully curated selection of Scotch whiskies that exemplify the diversity and sophistication of this beloved spirit. Start with Glenlivet 12 Year Old, a classic Single Malt from Speyside known for its smoothness and floral notes, making it an excellent introduction to Scotch for newcomers. For a touch of peaty brilliance, include Laphroaig 10 Year Old from Islay, renowned for its bold smokiness and maritime influence. To round out the trio, opt for Glenfiddich 18 Year Old, a rich and complex Single Malt from the Highlands, with layers of oak, dried fruit, and a lingering sweetness. These Scotch whiskies represent a spectrum of regions, flavors, and aging profiles, ensuring your home bar is not only well-stocked but elevated to a level that caters to both seasoned enthusiasts and those venturing into the world of premium Scotch.

Here we have three more additions to add to your home bar. We’ll give you time to stock up on said items, many at a fantastic price at YouBooze, before we delve into the more technical side of a true cocktail. I mean bro, can you imagine Fitzgerald ever drinking from a red party cup? Nah. He mos def use a more sophisticated drinking vessel! And no, you can’t keep using that old popsicle stick to mix drinks… We’re not going to get all seven-different-forks-and-ten-different-spoons level of sophistication here, but the right tools make the job easier. Plus they look cool. But for now, cheers to more diversity in your home bar!