How to Stock Your Home Bar

Cocktail experts Greg and Shelley Lindgren, co-owners of San Francisco's A16 and Rye, share the best spirits you need to always be ready for a celebration. Cheers!

THE BOOZE



Greg Lindgren recommends having a quality mix of liquor on-hand. The good news? You don't always have to spring for top-shelf.

Scotch
Spring for a good-sipping single malt. Lindgren's pick: Bruichladdich 12-year Second Edition.

Bourbon
Opt for the budget-friendly choice to save a few dollars since you can barely taste the difference. Greg suggests the affordable Four Roses.

Vodka
This is the most popular alcohols, but the least likely to be consumed straight. Translation: You'll want lots of it at a not-too-fancy grade. Greg recommends the budget-friendly, but reliable Polish brand, Sobieski.

Tequila
Margaritas benefit from pricier tequila so this alcohol is worth the splurge. Try one made from 100-percent blue agave, like Tequila Ocho Añejo.

Gin
Though cheap gin can be awful, top-shelf isn't exquisite. The best tip is to go for Plymouth, a premium option at a midrange price.

Rum
For Cuba libres, Greg prefers, "a dry white rum, since cola's already so sweet." He opts for Flor de Caña.

Plus: Get pricing & sourcing info for all these recommended liquors »

THE WINE

Buying in bulk is your best option, says Shelley Lindgren. "You get the best quality for the money, since wine shops often discount cases. Plus, you'll always have an extra bottle at the ready." Here are her must-haves:

White
Didier Champalou Vouvray Sec appeals to drinkers who like a full-bodied Chablis, as well as those who enjoy a crisp Pinot Grigio.

Red
Shelley recommends Emilio Moro Finca Resalso, "a Spanish cross between Cabernet and Syrah."

Sparkling
An affordable alternative to champagne, Bisol Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Crede Brut shines with hints of apple and pear.

Plus: See pricing & sourcing info for all these wines »

THE MIXERS & GARNISHES



The absolute musts: tonic water, club soda, and cola. From there, add juices-cranberry (for vodka), orange (for screwdrivers), lemon (for Tom Collins), and lime (for margaritas). A couple of extras worth including: aromatic bitters, a key ingredient in classic cocktails, and dry vermouth, a martini necessity. Don't forget the garnishes: limes, lemons, olives, cherries, and mint.

THE SNACKS


Greet guests with an assortment of light nibbles that keep well: pistachios, a wasabi mix, and crackers to serve with goat cheese. Bright idea: Erasable chalkboard labels make it easy to keep track of snacks.

Get the recipe for Shelley Lindgren's Spiced Nuts »

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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.