Stocking Wedding Bar on a Budget

Choosing the right booze for a wedding can be stressful when debating price vs quality. To stay within budget without sacrificing caliber, bar manager Jonathan Rodriguez at W South Beach’s Living Room shares his tips on the best booze worth the buck for a significantly cheaper open bar.

1. Rum - Ron Barceló’s Dark Series ($23) and Ron Barceló Grand Platinum ($20)

“Ron Barceló Dark series is a premium rum. It’s really smooth and perfect for a vintage cocktail (like a Highball or Old Fashioned) or on the rocks. For cocktails, use the Platinum Barceló.” 

2. Gin - Gin Tanqueray ($30)

“Gin Tanqueray is a well-known brand that is cheaper than Hendricks and Bombay. It’s best for simple cocktails, like a Gin & Tonic or Negroni.”

3. Tequila - Tequila Espolón ($25)

“Tequila Espolón is a great value brand, where event the reposado is cheaper than some Blanco tequilas! Besides, shots, it makes good Palomas and Margaritas”

4. Vodka - Tito’s Vodka ($20)

“Tito’s Vodka is a value brand and mixes well with just about anything. In a cocktail, Moscow Mule is best.”

Pro-tip for an even cheaper open bar:

“Another way to budget would be to create His/Her or Bride/Groom cocktails. Featuring two cocktails that might be favorites of the wedding couple gives a personal touch while controlling what spirits and mixers you need. For the guests who don’t drink cocktails, have a beer and wine alternative.”

Photos courtesy of: TAMZ (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 6th & 7th)  and Ron Barcelo (5th)