Whatever got you started, let's take a look now what the world of spirits has to offer and what drinks you really must add to your new treasure trove...
Being made from a range of botanicals around its juniper heart it tastes a lot like flowers and herbs. How strong the floral notes are depends on the type and the make you go for.
Hendrick's is a very nice Gin to get up and running, smooth on the tongue and a fine all-round choice, no matter whether you're mixing it or not. If you prefer something from a New World, Aviation Gin, an American Gin from Oregon, is a good addition.
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Start off with a Grey Goose or Absolut, solid allrounders that won't damage your wallet. There are also quite some craft options out there, American Hangar 1 or Austrian 1310 organic Vodka, for example.
Here's a simple approach from a taste perspective: if you are new to Whisk(e)y choose an Irish (whiskey with an 'e'), a Tennessee Whisk(e)y or a Bourbon. Usually the taste is easier to handle.
When choosing Scotch, definitely start with one without 'peat', that smokey and medicinal flavour that you might have smelled in a Whisky. It's really not for everyone, but if it is your taste preference then there are tons of different approaches to peat flavouring, so make sure you first of all find one that you like.

In the peat-free world, a nice Jameson from Ireland is a good start, or the Woodford Reserve should serve as a nice Bourbon selection (plus its bottle looks nice on any shelf).
If you've already discovered that Whisk(e)y is something you do like, go for a Scotch, the Whisky made in Scotland. That doesn't mean one that you can find in every corner shop's off-license section, but something sophisticated and more special.
Choosing that is the hard part. But hey, Uncle Flaviar is here on a rescue mission! Our Tasting Packs provide the ideal overview and are also the cheapest way of finding out exactly what you like.
Although the very good stuff will put wings on your wallet, having a Hennessy Fine de Cognac, or a VSOP from Martell in your cupboard, should be a decent start. And it's in the name: some Eau de Vie should be good for your life too, right?
So whether you drink it pure or mixed, a bottle of Rum will be the drink to help you through any difficult times up ahead. A dark rum offers its distinctive sweet vanilla and honey flavours, white rum being straighter and better in Cocktails.
Spiced Rum is only advisable if you've already tasted it and knew you'd fallen in love. With all that in mind, get yourself a Ron Zacapa or, if you're an adult, try Ron de Jeremy.

Grappa and a Bitter make good Digestifs, if you're prone to a little nip after dinner or with your Coffee. Go for a classic Italian Grappa, like Poli, Berta and Nonino.
If you are a Whisky lover, stack up on that side of your bar with a nice Bourbon and a Japanese Whisky. One is a nice Scotch alternative and the other a nerdy option for Poker night with your friends.
Where best to taste? Ask good friends for a sip of what's in their bar, tipple in bars and restaurant, go for something new whenever possible or buy quality tasting packs that give you a good overview of what's available and that also add some context to it, telling you why it tastes like this, so you are able to identify your personal pleasure profile better.