Gin: The botanicals integrated into gin during distillation give it a unique smell and flavor. Traditionally the base spirit in Martinis, gin is commonly served with an astringent—like vermouth or a lime slice—to put a twist on its dry taste. Popular gin drinks include the the Tom Collins.

Tequila: Breaking out the blender for a pool party? Tequila is the base for a lot of the drinks you’ll want to serve. There’s the ever-popular Margarita, as well as favorites like the Tequila Sunrise. And don’t be looking for a worm in the bottle. Those slithery guys are found only in bottles of mezcal, a spirit closely related to tequila.

Whiskey: Here’s the scoop on some popular single malts—scotch, bourbon and Canadian whisky.

Scotch is considered by those in the know to be one of the more complex spirits distilled today. Savor its intricate flavors by serving it on the rocks, or mixing it with sweet vermouth in a Manhattan.

Bourbon’s distinct color and flavor come from the charred barrels in which it is aged. Its unique character and great mixability make it the most popular brown spirit in the country, so it’s a good idea to have a bottle, especially if you’re making Mint Juleps.

Canadian whisky is made and aged just like bourbon, except it’s blended for a more balanced flavor. Popular recipes for Canadian include the Old Fashioned.

Remember, any cocktail is best enjoyed in moderation, and only by those of legal drinking age.