Post #85589 by Tiki-Kate on Sat, Apr 10, 2004 10:18 AM

Buying a good bartending guide is the best place to start. Most of the newer guides will have a list of basic starters and a list to flush out your collection.

One of my favorites is The Bartender's Guide by Peter Bohrmann because it gives good background info on many different types of liquor such as how they are made as well as what the flavor is like.

I also love guides that are fun to read and have great illustrations. I'd recommend Trader Vic's Bartenders Guide from 1947 and the newer Grog Log and Intoxica by Beachbum Berry.

Here's a list of basics:

Bourbon
Brandy
Campari
Cognac
Cointreau
Curacao (blue)
Creme de cacao
Creme de cassis
Creme de menthe
Gin
Rum, light and dark
Scotch
Sherry
Sparkling wine
Tequila
Vermouth (dry and sweet)
Vodka

and mixers:

Cream of coconut
Grenadine
Rose's Lime Juice
Sugar syrup
Fruit juices
Cola
Soda water
Tonic water

and garnishes:

Lemons
Limes
Maraschino cherries
Olives
Onions

You should be flat broke after your done. That's when you really know you have a well stocked bar.