Do you have the right stock for your bar?

Honestly, this is one topic that haven't touched on too much, but it's actually really useful information. When you are building your inventory start off small. Depending on the kind of people you like to entertain, you can start off with the clear stuff first like the Vodka, Rum, Tequila, Gin, and what not! Then when you see more people that have more refined tastes get the Whiskey, Scotch, Cognac, and even the Dark Rum such as an Appleton (which is really great might I add on Ice). After that, I would say really learn to create some drinks. I've always gone with knowing what certain juices and what kind of mixes of alcohol work best. For example, a plain Vodka with just about any juice will mix well. Vodka has a very neutral flavor. That's why a lot more people kind of go towards the vodka. Rum is usually great with Pineapple Juice. Rum is sweet on it's own and Pineapple Juice just adds to the flavor. Also, learn what kind of mixes like your Sweet and Sour, Simple Syrup, Triple Sec to make some really tasting drinks, and add a kick to your palette! Maybe you want to make party shots, so Blue Curacao is excellent for colors if you want to cater to the ladies! Now, when we are talking about Whiskey, Scotch, or a Cognac, we don't really mix too much. There are certain recipes, but the finer the product, the less we need to dilute. Simply pouring over a glass of ice and sipping slowly should do the trick! You don't have the craziest collection ever, but the more you accumulate over time, the more you have to go off of to make your friends not only satisfied with their favorite drink - but you make em jealous. Here are a few videos to help you get started: