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Stocking the Ultimate Bar: A Guide for Hosting 50 Guests

Planning a party for 50? Congratulations! But before you start envisioning the laughter and merriment, let’s tackle a crucial aspect: the bar. A well-stocked bar is the lifeblood of any successful gathering. So, how much booze do you really need? Here’s the breakdown: Plan on 3-4 drinks per guest. This translates to roughly 150-200 drinks in total. Allocate about 2 bottles (750ml each) of each type of liquor (vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey) to cover popular cocktails. You’ll also need 6-8 bottles of wine (split evenly between red and white, with a rosé option), and 4-5 cases of beer (consider a mix of domestic, import, and craft options). Don’t forget the mixers: stock up on soda water, tonic water, ginger ale, cola, juice (orange, cranberry, pineapple, lime) – about 2-3 liters of each. And finally, garnish generously: lemons, limes, olives, cherries, and orange slices are essential. Remember, it’s always better to have a little extra than to run dry!

Decoding the Drinks: A Detailed Inventory

Moving beyond the initial estimate, let’s delve into the specifics of what you’ll need to create a bar that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. Remember, this is a guideline, and adjustments should be made based on your guests’ known preferences and the overall theme of your party.

Essential Liquors: The Foundation of Your Bar

Vodka: A must-have for its versatility. Two bottles should suffice for most parties. Consider a mid-range brand that is smooth and mixes well.
Gin: Increasingly popular, especially for cocktails like Gin & Tonics and Martinis. Two bottles are a good starting point.
Rum: Light rum is essential for classic cocktails like Mojitos and Daiquiris. One bottle will usually cover this area adequately, though two bottles might be needed depending on the length of the party.
Tequila: For Margaritas and other tequila-based cocktails, one bottle of blanco or silver tequila will be ideal.
Whiskey/Bourbon: Offering both is a good idea to cater to different tastes. Two bottles in total, maybe one of each, should be enough.

Wine & Beer: Crowd-Pleasing Options

Wine: Aim for a balanced selection. Three bottles of red (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot), three bottles of white (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay), and a bottle or two of rosé will cater to most wine drinkers.
Beer: Variety is key. Two cases of domestic beer (lager), one case of import beer, and one or two cases of craft beer (IPA, stout) will provide options for everyone. Consider non-alcoholic beer as well.

Mixers & Garnishes: Completing the Cocktail Experience

Sodas & Juices: Soda water, tonic water, ginger ale, cola, orange juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and lime juice are essential. Purchase them in large bottles or cans.
Garnishes: Fresh lemons, limes, oranges, olives, and cherries elevate any cocktail. Buy plenty! Consider adding other options like cucumber ribbons, mint sprigs, and pickled onions for more sophisticated drinks.
Simple Syrup: A must-have for sweetening cocktails. You can buy it or make your own easily with sugar and water.
Bitters: Angostura bitters are a classic addition to many cocktails.

Tools & Equipment: Setting Up for Success

Don’t forget the essentials for crafting your cocktails:

Shakers: Two or three shakers will allow your bartender to work efficiently.
Jiggers: For precise measuring of ingredients.
Muddler: For crushing herbs and fruits.
Bar Spoon: For stirring cocktails.
Ice: Plenty of ice! Estimate about 1-2 pounds of ice per person.
Glassware: A variety of glasses for different drinks (highball glasses, rocks glasses, wine glasses, martini glasses, beer glasses).
Bottle Opener & Corkscrew: Obvious, but essential.

FAQs: Mastering the Art of Bar Stocking

Here are some frequently asked questions to further refine your bar-stocking strategy:

What if my party has a specific theme? Tailor your liquor and mixers to the theme. A tropical party might require more rum and tropical juices, while a James Bond-themed event should prioritize martinis and classic cocktails.
How do I estimate the right amount of ice? As a general rule, plan for 1-2 pounds of ice per person, especially if it’s a warm day.
What’s the best way to keep drinks cold? Use large ice buckets or tubs filled with ice. Consider purchasing inflatable coolers or using a beverage refrigerator if available.
Should I hire a bartender? For a party of 50, hiring a bartender is highly recommended. It frees you up to enjoy your party and ensures that drinks are made efficiently and professionally.
What are some easy-to-make cocktails for a crowd? Batched cocktails like Sangria, Punch, or pre-mixed Margaritas are excellent choices. They can be prepared in advance and served easily.
How can I minimize waste? Opt for smaller bottles of mixers and garnishes to prevent them from going bad. Encourage guests to finish their drinks before getting another.
What about non-alcoholic options? Provide a selection of non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water, sodas, juices, and non-alcoholic beer or cocktails.
Where should I set up the bar? Choose a location that is easily accessible to guests but doesn’t obstruct traffic flow. Ensure there’s enough space for the bartender to work comfortably.
How can I make the bar visually appealing? Use attractive glassware, colorful garnishes, and a well-organized setup. Consider adding decorative elements like flowers or candles.
What about payment options? If you’re charging for drinks, decide whether you’ll accept cash, credit cards, or both. Ensure you have adequate change and a secure way to handle payments.
How can I handle intoxicated guests responsibly? Encourage designated drivers, offer transportation options like ride-sharing services, and cut off service to visibly intoxicated guests. Provide plenty of food and water.
What should I do with leftover alcohol? Store any leftover liquor in a cool, dry place. Wine can be refrigerated for a few days. Unused mixers and garnishes can be discarded. Consider sending guests home with sealed containers of beer or wine.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to stock a bar that delights your guests and makes your party a memorable success. Cheers!