Spirited Away
A good bar cart needs a variety of liquors to suit multiple moods. Those who prefer fine spirits should stock their cart with mature scotches, tequilas and cognacs. For mixed drinks, balanced gin and vodka that suit various cocktails fit the bill nicely. Every home bar should be stocked with at least one or two different types of vodka. There are many styles of whiskey, each with its own distinct flavour profile and attributes. A good way to start your whiskey collection is to buy one bottle of bourbon and one bottle of blended rye whiskey. The bourbon should hold its own when served on the rocks or neat, and the rye will work in most classic whiskey cocktails like an old fashioned or Manhattan. Have one bottle of white rum for daiquiris and mojitos and a secondary darker rum to cover more adventurous rum-based drinks. A good rule of thumb for home bartenders is to have a cheaper bottle of blanco tequila on hand for margaritas and a nicer bottle for those who prefer tequila straight or mixed with soda. Some people are more enamoured with the taste of gin than others, but you should always have a bottle of gin on your bar cart, regardless of your preference.
◄ Cocktail Hour
If at-home cocktails are your thing, you’ll need the right tools. Your bar cart should include basic tools for mixology, such as several cutting boards, a bottle opener, and a jigger (an hourglass-shaped measuring tool that is a staple of any bar set). A cocktail shaker set, a grater and an ice bucket are also great additions. A mixing glass, bar spoon, peeler and julep strainer should do you well too. We also suggest having dasher bottles and a small sealable bottle in stock, which make the addition of bitters and modifiers (such as vermouth or Campari) more elegant and controllable. Depending on whether you want to create a variety of cocktails or plan to specialize in one or two, stock your cart with the necessary spirits, liqueurs and mixers.
Wine
Stock a variety of wine vintages. A bold red, a crisp white, and a fruity rose are the three essentials. If you plan to host a wine tasting, choose several vintages you would like to showcase. A nice dessert wine and an ice wine are wonderful additions as well. This is an opportunity to start your wine collection, so you’ll always be perpared for toasting special celebrations.
▲ Wine/bar cabinet available at Wicker Emporium, Charlottetown.
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