
Though I enjoy the occasional
Manhattan, I'm not usually a drinker of straight bourbon. Like scotch, the Kentucky libation always seemed more like a sippin' drink for old dudes. But lately, I've been acquainting myself with these potent brown liquors, and I have to say that neither scotch nor bourbon is anything to be afraid of.

No matter how stocked a bar may be, if it doesn't have alcohol it's not really a bar. What's the use of a
cocktail shaker,
martini glass, and
toothpick if there's no vodka? Having one bottle is a must, but if your budget allows for more purchase a variety of types.

Amaretto
A liqueur with the distinct flavor of almonds, though it's often made with apricot pit kernels. The original liqueur, Amaretto di Saronno, is from Saronno, Italy - although many American distilleries now produce their own amaretto. It is usually served straight, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail and is often an ingredient used to enhance baked goods or desserts (as seen in my recipe for [recipe|nid=111352|type=link]).