Though we delved into how to stock a home bar on a budget in a previous post, finding ways to stretch your booze budget is always worth discussing.  Imbibe Magazine is out with some specific recommendations on alcohol to consider if you (like most of us) want to stock your bar with a useful selection of spirits but aren’t ready to commit a couple months’ pay to do it.

The author recommends a few brands for each alcohol category.  The suggestions stay away from some of the more expensive, top-shelf brands and focus instead on less pricey alternatives.  Please note that there are several types of rum you will want to buy if you plan to mix a lot of tiki drinks, but the rest will provide you with a solid foundation to keep a broad range of guests satisfied.

Gin: Beefeater, Hendrick’s, Martin Miller’s, Plymouth

Bourbon: Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare 10 Yr., Evan Williams, Woodford Reserve

Rye: Jim Beam, Old Overholt, Rittenhouse 100

Vodka: Belvedere, Blue Ice, Skyy, Sobieski

White rum: Bacardi, Flor de Caña 4 Yr., Mt. Gay Eclipse

Aged rum: Appleton Estate, Bacardi 8, Flor de Caña 12 Yr.

Reposado tequila: Cazadores, Jose Cuervo Tradicional, Milagro

In addition to the brand recommendations, the article does have a few other interesting tips on how to save some dough while getting your alcohol shopping done right.  A well-stocked tiki bar does not have to cost you a fortune!

Best Buys (Imbibe Magazine)