It’s believed home bars were first introduced in the early 1940s. They were famous for a while and then not so much in the ’70s and ’80s.
While a home bar is not a new concept, they are beginning to become more popular among homeowners again.
Whether you’ve recently added a bar to your home or you’re in the process of having one installed, this guide is for you.
Once your home renovation is done, you’re going to want to have a party to celebrate and use your new addition.
Before you can do that, you’ll need to properly stock your bar. If you’ve done this before, you may not know where to start. That’s why we are here.
We are going to tell you everything you need to know about filling your at-home bar. Read on for more!
Spirits
The most important item in your bar is the spirits. Now this is likely going to be the most overwhelming part of the bar stocking process. This is simply because there are so many options.
Vodka
The first spirit you want to add to your home bar is vodka. This is going to be a staple.
Now, before you buy any, you need to know your pricing and costs. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on this liquor if you’re making a drink like a screwdriver and Bloody Mary.
However, if you plan on making martinis, you may want to splurge a little and get a nicer bottle. You’ll also want to include a few flavored vodkas. Citrus and vanilla flavors are typically a fan favorite.
Gin
Gin is the next bottle on the list. Now, the good thing about gin is it is very versatile. You can’t go wrong with a London dry gin. This liquor can be used for a number of different drinks.
From there, you explore different brands and find which ones you like the best.
Rum
Rum is a great liquor for summertime. People often associate rum with fun drinks such as pina coladas and strawberry daiquiris.
You’ll want to stock yo9ur bar with two different bottles. This liquor is typically affordable as well.
Be sure to include a light rum for the majority of drinks, including the mojito. A dark rum will also need to be behind the counter as well.
Tequila
You definitely can’t forget about tequila.
Tequila is a must-have if you and your guests want to enjoy margaritas. It’s recommended that you have at least one bottle at all times.
Whiskey
This liquor is going to be the hardest to choose from. Each whiskey has its own characteristics.
When you’re first stocking up your bar, including one to two bottles. As you explore, learn, and read whiskey and bourbon reviews, you can add more.
Mixers
The next step is adding mixers to your home bar. The more mixers and ingredients you have, the more drinks you’ll be able to make for your friends and family.
If you have a specific mixer, you like, be sure to include it. However, the ones below are standard and will give your guests a large number of options.
Tonic water is needed to make gin and tonics, whiskey tonics, vodka tonics, and much more.
Club soda is another standard mixer that should always be in your bar. It is used to make a variety of different cocktails.
Sodas such as Coca-Cola and Sprite are also used in many drinks. Coke specifically is popular to mix with Jack Daniels.
Be sure to include Ginger Ale, ginger beer, OJ, and cranberry juice. Bitters are necessary when you’re first stocking your bar, but you’ll want to include them at some point as they are included in a lot of drinks as well.
Garnishes and Extras
Now for the fun part, the garnishes. While you can certainly make all your drinks without these, they are a great touch when you’re hosting.
Adding garnishes will make your guest feel as if they are in a public bar or restaurant.
Lemons, limes, and even oranges are pretty standard to have. They are used as garnishes, but also as mixers.
You’ll want to have some olives and olive juice so you can make martinis. Maraschino Cherries are used to make Manhattans, and salt and sugar are used on the rim of glasses when you’re making margaritas and other sweet drinks.
Lastly, you should include simple syrup.
Bar Snacks
To really impress your guests, you may want to include some bar snacks. You don’t have to purchase anything fancy. Having pretzels, nuts, some chocolate candy, or chips can go a long way.
People like to snack when they are drinking and this will be a nice touch.
Mocktails
When picking out popular liquors and stocking your bar, keep in mind that some of your guests may not drink.
Having other drink options will make them feel welcomed and included. You don’t have to get anything extra, you can use the mixers that you already have. However, you may want to research some popular mocktails before your party.
Don’t forget to stock up on bottled water as well.
Drinks For Your Home Bar
A home bar will be a great addition, but it takes some time to build. It can seem like a daunting project, but it will be worth it.
When you’re heading out to the store to gather all your supplies, don’t forget to take this guide with you. Everything you need is included, so you won’t forget anything.
We are excited about your new home bar and hope it turns out exactly how you want it to. Whether you’re looking for more drink ideas or home renovation projects, we’ve got you covered. Check out our page for more!
