Whenever I have a party I always struggle with what people are going to have to drink. I want to ensure that there is something for everyone, but I don’t want to buy out a whole liquor store. If you become stumped like I do here are some helpful hints when hosting a cocktail party.
Liquor:
Vodka- When buying liquor always get vodka, it’s going to work the hardest for you. Its used in basic drinks such as vodka tonics, screwdrivers, and the vodka martini.
Tequila- To have a little variety I would get tequila, for margaritas, sunrises, and palomas. There are so many different brands of Tequila but the best are made from 100% agave.
If you are having a cocktail party, allow for a pound of ice for each guest, as well as three drinks, two glasses (in case they switch drinks or want a fresh glass), and three napkins per person for a two-hour party.
Wine:
Chardonnay- I think that this is the most popular wine choice. It’s a crisp dry wine that all white wine drinkers usually like.
Pinot Grigio- This wine would be my secound choice as it’s lighter and sweeter then chardonnay and I think would be a great white wine contrast.
Pinot Noir- This wine usually is fruity but also has some oak flavors as well.
I tend to get just three type of wines. My friends all gravitate towards whites over reds but you know your crowd so switch it up if you think that is best. One wine bottle will fill about four glasses.
Here is a fun drink to try at your next party courtesy of Once upon a chef:
Makes one drink
Ingredients
4 ounces (½ cup) all-natural limeade, such as Newman’s Own
1 ½ ounces (1 shot) best quality Tequila, preferably Patron Silver
½ ounce (1 tablespoon) orange-flavored liqueur, such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier
Juice from ½ lime (about a tablespoon)
Lime slices, for garnish
Coarse salt for rimming the glass
Directions
1. Place coarse salt on a small plate. Rub rim of glass with lime wedge and dip in coarse salt if desired. Add ice to glass if using.
2. Combine drink ingredients in a cocktail shaker, add some ice and shake vigorously, then strain into prepared glass. Garnish rim with lime slice.
If you want to prepare a pitcher instead of making individual cocktails, simply adjust the quantities for the number of drinks you need. Mix the limeade, tequila, Cointreau and lime juice in a pitcher, keep cool, then pour into prepared glasses over ice when ready to serve.
Related articles on throwing an awesome cocktail party!
- How To Throw a Cocktail Party (potterybarn.com)
- How to Stock Your Liquor Cabinet on the Cheap (getrichslowly.org)
Le Chic Elefant 