A well-stocked cocktail center can be simple

A home bar can be expertly equipped without being extravagant. The same simple tools used by professionals are really the easiest to use at home, too.

Following is a list of basics for a bar:

Barware

1 cocktail shaker or metal mixing cup
1 mixing glass
1 long-stemmed stirring spoon
1 1/2 ounce shot glass
1 cocktail strainer
1 bar knife
2 bar towels
1 bottle/can opener
Assorted glassware and stemware

Spirits

(Most bartenders recommend the 750-milliliter bottle, commonly called a "fifth.")

Bourbon or Tennessee whiskey
Brandy
Gin
Rum (light and dark)
Scotch
Another whiskey
Tequila
Vodka
Liqueurs

Mixers and condiments

Soda (club, ginger ale, cola, diet cola)
Cranberry juice
Orange juice
Lemons and limes
Vermouth (sweet and dry)
Triple Sec
Bitters
Maraschino cherries
Cocktail onions
Olives
Grenadine
Sweetened lime juice
Tabasco sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Superfine sugar

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