Sunday Cocktails's Kitchen: Home bar must haves

Having a well-stocked home bar is a great way to entertain and to enjoy your favorite cocktails. Here are some of my essentials that make the perfect home bar:

1. Liquor:

 - Vodka

 - Gin

 - Rum (light and dark)

 - Tequila

 - Whiskey (Bourbon, Scotch, or Rye)

 - Brandy/Cognac

2. Mixers:

 - Tonic water

 - Club soda

 - Ginger ale

 - Cranberry juice

 - Orange juice

 - Tomato juice

3. Liqueurs:

 - Triple sec or orange liqueur

 - Vermouth (both dry and sweet)

 - Amaretto

 - Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlua)

 - Irish cream (e.g., Baileys)

 - Campari

4. Garnishes:

 - Lemons

 - Limes

 - Oranges

 - Maraschino cherries

 - Olives

 - Salt and sugar (for rimming glasses)

5. Bar Tools:

 - Cocktail shaker (I prefer the Boston-style shaker)

 - Mixing glass 

 - Bar spoon

 - Jigger 

 - Strainer

 - Muddler

 - Citrus juicer

 - Ice bucket and tongs

 - Cutting board and knife

 - Corkscrew and bottle opener

6. Glassware:

 - Highball glasses

 - Old-fashioned glasses

 - Martini glasses

 - Collins glasses

 - Shot glasses

 - Wine glasses

7. Extras:

 - Ice cubes or ice trays

 - Cocktail napkins

 - Stirrers or swizzle sticks

 - Cocktail picks

Remember, you can always start with the basics and gradually expand your collection based on your preferences and the cocktails you enjoy making.