Essential Spirits
Think of it as a rite of passage. Most guys will simply pour whatever they have gathering frost in the freezer, but a gentleman mixes legitimate cocktails from his bar. This doesn't require a fancy piece of furniture (a simple tray will suffice) or even an immense amount of bottles. Build your bar by starting with the base spirits. Add your favorite mixers and you'll churn out a surprising number of classic cocktails and create a few new concoctions of your own. Herewith, the five bottles every man should have on hand.
Vodka
What to Know
A definite crowd pleaser, vodka has relatively little flavor compared to other liquors, which is why it blends so well with mixers. It doesn't require any aging, but it does benefit from multiple distillations and filtrations.
Found In
Martinis, vespers and vodka tonics, of course.
Ones to Consider
Gin
What to Know
Gin derives much of its flavor from such botanicals as coriander seed, licorice root, cassia bark and its predominant ingredient, the piney-flavored juniper berry. Dry gin is aromatic and light in flavor and body.
Found In
Martinis, negronis and gimlets.
Ones to Consider
Bourbon
What to Know
Declared by Congress as the national spirit, bourbon is a corn-based whiskey that must be aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least two years, a process that gives it much of its distinctive flavor.
Found In
Old fashioneds, Manhattans and whiskey smashes.
Ones to Consider
Tequila
What to Know
Look for 100 percent agave—the cactus-like plant from which the spirit is made—if it doesn't say so on the label, it's mixto (agave cut with sugar) and you don't want it. Keep a silver tequila on hand for margaritas or an aged reposado or anejo for sipping.
Found In
Margaritas, palomas and sunrises.
Ones to Consider
Rum
What to Know
Often associated with the Caribbean, rum is made from distilled, fermented sugarcane juice. The flavor and color depend largely on how long it has been aged, and you definitely want your rum to be aged.
Found In
Daiquiris, mojitos and Cuba Libres.