The current liquor collection:
As far as Rums go, I agree with an earlier post that their entry level stuff is not suitable for human consumption. As far as spiced rums go, the absolute best spiced rum on earth is Sailor Jerry's Spiced Navy Rum. Sailor Jerry is excellent stuff, 92 proof, and very addictive. I'm quite certain that god invented coke as a mixer for SJ.
As far as the gin is concerned, I like Tanqueray for a good entry level Gin. I'm new to the gin, so I'm working my way into a bottle of Bombay Sapphire as well and am looking forward to trying Hendricks, which supposedly has a curious hint of cucumber.
A good base collection of Whiskey, Scotch, Gin, Vodka, Rum and Brandy will open the doors to most good drinks. Be sure to focus on mixers and fruit juices, as they are just as important (imho) as your alcohol selection itself.