The Strong Stuff

Vodka:
Usually made from grain or potatoes it is easy to mix as it carries little flavour of its own. Its simplicity makes it an ideal starting point for creating mixed drinks.

Gin:
A grain spirit infused with Juniper and other botanicals to give a delicate flavour. Responsible for the Martini.

American Whisky:
Produced from corn(Bourbon), grain or rye. Aged in oak and has a rich smooth flavour. Generally easier to work with than some of the more complex Scottish and Irish wisk(e)ys.

Rum:
Made fro sugar cane juice or molasses. The darker it is the more sweet it is. Works well with spices.

Cachaça:
The spirit of Brazil made from fermented unrefined sugarcane. A distinct flavour made famous by the caipirinha

Brandy:
Made from distilling wine which is in tern made from fermenting grapes (or other fruit). Good stuff is aged in oak and made in France. Drank after dinner

Tequila:
Makes people happy, apparently. A Blue Agave-based spirit made primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila, Mexico. works well with salt and citrus, think Margarita.