When planning a full bar for an event, it is important to consider the season and the preferences of your guests. Let's start with the liquor options. Vodka, rum, gin, whiskey, and tequila are all essential choices that cater to a wide range of tastes. It is advisable to have a variety of brands within each category to cater to different preferences.
For vodka, you may consider having popular brands such as Grey Goose, Absolut, and Ketel One. These options provide a good balance between quality and affordability. Rum is another versatile liquor that can be enjoyed in cocktails such as mojitos and daiquiris. Captain Morgan, Bacardi, and Mount Gay are popular brands that offer both light and dark rum options.
Gin is a classic spirit that is often enjoyed in martinis, gin and tonics, and other refreshing cocktails. Some well-regarded gin brands include Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, and Hendrick's. Whiskey lovers appreciate a good selection of options, including bourbon, scotch, and rye. Jack Daniel's, Jameson, and Glenfiddich are popular choices that cater to different whiskey preferences.
Tequila is a staple for margaritas and other tequila-based cocktails. Having both silver (blanco) and aged (reposado or añejo) tequila options is recommended. Patron, Don Julio, and Jose Cuervo are widely recognized tequila brands that are worth considering.
Moving on to wine, it is essential to have both red and white options available. When selecting red wines, consider offering a variety of styles such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. For white wines, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio are popular choices. It is a good idea to have a mix of both domestic and international wines to cater to different preferences.
Beer is a must-have for any full bar. Offering a selection of 2-3 different beer options ensures that you have something for everyone. Consider including a light beer, a craft beer with more flavor, and perhaps a seasonal or local option. Some popular light beer choices include Bud Light, Coors Light, and Corona. Craft beer options can vary widely depending on your location and the preferences of your guests.
In addition to the main alcoholic beverages, it is important to have a variety of drink mixers on hand. This includes soda (regular and diet), tonic water, ginger ale, fruit juices (such as orange, cranberry, and pineapple), and a selection of fresh garnishes (lemon, lime, mint, etc.).
When determining rations, it is important to consider the duration of the event, the number of guests, and their drinking preferences. It is better to have more alcohol than necessary, as running out of certain options can be disappointing for guests. As a general guideline, estimate about 1-2 drinks per person per hour for a standard event. However, this can vary depending on the occasion and the drinking habits of your guests.
To summarize, a well-stocked full bar should include a variety of liquors, wines, beers, and champagne/sparkling wine options. It is important to consider the season and the preferences of your guests when selecting the specific brands and styles. Remember to have a range of drink mixers on hand to cater to different cocktail preferences. Cheers to a successful and enjoyable event!