- Vodka – Vodka is a clear, neutral spirit that is made from grains like wheat, rye, or corn. It is often used as a base for cocktails because it doesn’t have a strong flavor of its own. Look for a high-quality vodka that is smooth and easy to drink, like Grey Goose or Belvedere.
- Gin – Gin is a spirit that is flavored with juniper berries and other botanicals like coriander, citrus peel, and angelica root. There are many different styles of gin, but London Dry gin is the most common and is used in many classic cocktails. Some popular brands of gin include Beefeater, Tanqueray, and Bombay Sapphire.
- Whiskey – Whiskey is a broad category of spirits that includes bourbon, rye, scotch, and many others. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. Rye whiskey is made from rye grain and has a spicy flavor. Scotch is made in Scotland and is aged in oak barrels for at least three years. Choose a whiskey that suits your taste preferences and budget.
- Rum – Rum is a spirit that is made from sugarcane or molasses. There are many different types of rum, including light, dark, spiced, and aged. Light rum is used in cocktails like the mojito and the daiquiri, while dark rum is used in drinks like the mai tai and the zombie.
- Tequila – Tequila is a spirit that is made from the blue agave plant. It is the main ingredient in cocktails like the margarita and the tequila sunrise. Tequila is often classified as either blanco (unaged), reposado (aged 2-12 months), or añejo (aged for at least one year).
- Vermouth – Vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavored with herbs and spices. It is used as an ingredient in many classic cocktails, including the martini and the Manhattan. There are two main types of vermouth: sweet vermouth (used in drinks like the Manhattan) and dry vermouth (used in drinks like the martini).
- Bitters – Bitters are a concentrated, alcoholic solution that is flavored with herbs, spices, and fruits. They are used in many classic cocktails to add complexity and depth of flavor. Some popular brands of bitters include Angostura, Peychaud’s, and Fee Brothers.
- Triple sec – Triple sec is a sweet and citrusy liqueur that is made from oranges. It is used in many classic cocktails, including the margarita and the cosmopolitan. Some popular brands of triple sec include Cointreau and Grand Marnier.
- Campari – Campari is a bitter liqueur that is made from herbs, spices, and fruits. It is used in many classic cocktails, including the Negroni and the Americano. Campari has a distinct, bitter flavor that can take some getting used to.
- Sweet and sour mix – Sweet and sour mix is a pre-made mixer that is used in many cocktails, including the margarita and the whiskey sour. It is a combination of lemon or lime juice and simple syrup (a mixture of sugar and water). You can make your own sweet and sour mix, but it is also available for purchase at most liquor stores.
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