With the summertime shopping and entertaining in full swing it’s not a bad idea to stock your bar. There’s no need to spend a fortune or have the finest bottles of wine or scotch on your shelf.

Be prepared for any impromptu gathering. After work happy hour, post office party cocktails, or in my case the neighbourhoods block party. Whatever the occasion may be, it’s nice to be able to offer your guests a selection of beverages.

There’s no need to get out your bartenders handbook and begin memorizing how to make a Singapore sling or what the term “press” means. Here’s what we at Lucky’s Liquor recommends to please whatever crowd you are entertaining.

Gin, vodka and Canadian whisky are some of the basic spirits for any bar. Considering the time year, a bottle of spiced rum or Bailey’s is a must. Keeping a bottle of Cointreau on hand is a good idea for anyone in the mood for a good cocktail or martini. A bottle of any of these spirits can be found for around $25. Unless it’s a bottle of Greygoose you’re after you may have to up your budget slightly.

Beer, it’s considered a food group to some. A sort of liquid bread if you must. With such a large selection, domestic, import, and craft beers, best advice is to pick up a mixer pack. A case of 12 beers with a few different flavors usually a lager, pale ale, and something dark will sure please everyone’s taste preferences.

Wine is a must in my household. I recommend a selection of 4 reds and a couple whites. The list is endless, but many good value wines can be found. A bottle of Ogio Pinot Grigio, an Italian wine comes in at a modest $13. Having a few more reds such as the Inniskillin cabernet sauvignon for $14 and Georges Debeouf Beaujolais for $16 will keep your wino’s happy.

Keeping a bottle of bubbly on hand is a good idea, great for any occasion! A bottle of Veuve du Vernay for around $15 is a steal. A brut style sparkling that pairs well with oysters, cheese or just on it’s own.

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to help you with your selections and any questions you may have. Don’t forget to visit our merchandise selection in our mezzanine level for gifts or your basic bar needs.

‍