+1 to Phaelon's suggestion w one caveat. I'd recommend an independently owned store (you should be able to get recommendations by googling around) and ask to speak to the manager. Don't be afraid to tell them your budget and let them make the choices; since you don't drink it, your tastes are kind of irrelevant. If you ask in advance, you may be able to arrange to return un-opened bottles, or you could use them for holiday gifts. You probably can also get a case price (10% off) even on a mixed case of wine, if that's the direction you are going to go.
FWIW, my recommendations are:
Whiskey- if you mean American there is not that much demand these days. If you mean Scotch, Dewar's is a good choice.
Bourbon- Maker's Mark or Wild Turkey or jack Daniels (not technically bourbon, but whatever).
Gin- Beefeaters or Tanquerey
Vodka- Absolut
Wine generally varies depending on what local importers and distributors carry, so go w the store's recommendations. If it's a holiday party, you might want to consider champagne. Korbel is a good California sparkling wine; and there are many good French sparkling wines that are less expensive because they do not come from the Champagne region and thus cannot be called Champagne under French law.
Beer- Sam Adams Boston Lager is a safe choice for a somewhat upscale beer and Corona or any of the Belgian style wheat ales (Blue Moon, etc) is good for those that want something a little lighter.
Sounds like you are a very considerate host. Have fun!
FWIW, my recommendations are:
Whiskey- if you mean American there is not that much demand these days. If you mean Scotch, Dewar's is a good choice.
Bourbon- Maker's Mark or Wild Turkey or jack Daniels (not technically bourbon, but whatever).
Gin- Beefeaters or Tanquerey
Vodka- Absolut
Wine generally varies depending on what local importers and distributors carry, so go w the store's recommendations. If it's a holiday party, you might want to consider champagne. Korbel is a good California sparkling wine; and there are many good French sparkling wines that are less expensive because they do not come from the Champagne region and thus cannot be called Champagne under French law.
Beer- Sam Adams Boston Lager is a safe choice for a somewhat upscale beer and Corona or any of the Belgian style wheat ales (Blue Moon, etc) is good for those that want something a little lighter.
Sounds like you are a very considerate host. Have fun!