What’s your favourite cocktail these days? The classic Martini and Margarita, or throwbacks like the Amaretto Sour or the Manhattan? 

Whatever your craving and those of your friends, you need a bar with the right basics, the musts but make it elevated. We’ve got just the thing(s): a tequila, a rum, a gin from Italy, a vodka from Canada and a whiskey. All excellent, top-quality choices that can be enjoyed neat, on ice and in a fancy cocktail. And because bubblies rock, no bar would be complete without a sparkling wine to mix or sip as is.  

Bumbu XO

This is a smooth, rich and complex artisanal rum from Panama. It is aged for up to 18 years in bourbon barrels and selectively finished in Spanish sherry barrels. On the palate, aromas of caramel, toasted oak and vanilla give way to orange zest, peppery spices and coffee. You can create premium cocktails with this rum, and believe us you’ll taste it, but it is irresistible plain or on a nice big ice cube.

Malfy Rosa

The Amalfi Coast is most likely on your list of dream destinations. While you save up, you just have to taste this gin, lively and sophisticated, like you.  With its notes of Sicilian grapefruit, sun-drenched lemon, and juniper berries, it takes you to the Italian dolce vita in one sip. Beyond perfect in a gin and tonic. 

Olmeca Altos Plata

You probably won't fall off your chair to learn that the margarita is trending right now.  Voted No. 1 tequila for margaritas according to Drinks International's 2023 survey of the best bartenders around the world, Olmeca Altos Plata is THE tequila you need to make that drink.  Since it’s a premium tequila, it’s naturally smooth and very enjoyable for sipping, too. And no need to bust your budget as it offers great value. Just ask Normand who praises it without restraint in the reviews of the detailed info. 

Glenlivet

Because you’re looking for authenticity and quality, scotch is a good choice for its classic and timeless appeal. Glenlivet 12 is a single malt that sets the standard for Scottish whisky. It features seductive notes of cooked pear, cinnamon, gingerbread and orange blossom. Plain, on ice, or to create a luxurious cocktail. 

Polar Ice

What do you want from a vodka? A pure and smooth taste? Polar Ice is what you’re looking for. Produced in Ontario, it is triple filtered for a clean, no-fuss result. The perfect vodka for when you simply want a good base for your mixes. 

Mumm Napa

Our list ends in style with a Californian sparkling wine made using the traditional method, the same as a champagne. Mumm Napa refreshed its look, but still offers the same delicious value and aromas of beetroot, strawberry, raspberry and floral notes. It’s lively, it’s fresh, it’s rich; you should keep a bottle in the fridge for impromptu occasions. And remember that sparkling wine is a good idea at the end of a meal, too.  Try it, it’s refreshing as can be. 

In partnership with Corby Spirits and Wines Limited.