Cocktail Bitters by Category

Cocktail Bitters come in various types, each offering a unique flavor profile. Here are some of the most popular categories: 

Understanding the diverse array of bitters and their applications is essential for any aspiring mixologist seeking to craft cocktails that captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.
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What are Angostura Bitters?

Angostura bitters, originating from Trinidad and Tobago, are renowned for their bitter and spicy taste, with hints of clove and cinnamon. These bitters were first introduced in the 1820s as a medicinal tonic and have since become a staple in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned. Scrappy’s Bitters Aromatic 

What are Peychaud’s Bitters?

Peychaud’s bitters are famous for their inclusion in the Sazerac cocktail, the official drink of New Orleans. Invented in the 1830s by a New Orleans apothecary named Antoine Peychaud, these bitters offer a sweeter flavor profile compared to Angostura, with notes of anise and mint.
Scrappy’s Bitters Orleans

What are Orange Bitters?

Orange bitters are made from orange peel and were first introduced in the 1860s. They provide a distinct citrusy flavor along with hints of cardamom, coriander, and cinnamon. While they fell out of favor for a period, orange bitters have made a comeback in recent years, particularly Scrappy's Bitters.

Are Bitters Good For You?

Bitters have a long history of use as digestive aids and are believed to offer several potential health benefits. Let's explore the differences between digestive bitters and cocktail bitters, as well as their respective health implications.

Digestive Bitters vs. Cocktail Bitters

While both digestive bitters and cocktail bitters contain botanical extracts, they serve different purposes and have distinct compositions. Digestive bitters are formulated specifically to support digestion and are often consumed as herbal supplements or tonics. Cocktail bitters, on the other hand, are primarily used to flavor cocktails and contain higher concentrations of alcohol and flavoring agents.

From classic cocktails to innovative culinary creations, bitters are versatile ingredients that add depth, complexity, and balance to a wide range of drinks and dishes. Whether crafting a timeless cocktail or experimenting with new flavor combinations, bitters will elevate your libations to new heights of flavor sophistication.

Digestive Bitters

Digestive bitters, also known as digestifs, help patrons digest their meals. They stimulate the production of digestive juices and enzymes to promote healthy digestion. They are often consumed before or after meals to alleviate symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and heartburn. Digestifs are popular in Europe but lack prominence in North America. Digestive bitters are sipped straight or on the rocks and are usually served as an after-dinner drink. Aperitifs are another variety of digestives, but they’re served before meals.

Brands of Digestive Bitters

Some of the most famous digestive bitters brands include:

• Amaro
• Campari
• Aperol
• Jagermeister
• Unicum

Other Types of Bitters

Beyond the well-known Angostura, Peychaud’s, and orange bitters, a wide range of other flavors are available.

Are Cocktail Bitters Bitter?

While bitters are indeed bitter when tasted on their own, the small amount used in cocktails doesn't necessarily make the drink taste bitter. Instead, bitters help balance the flavors of a cocktail, enhancing sweetness and acidity while adding depth and complexity. 

What Cocktails Use Bitters?

Many classic cocktails rely on bitters to achieve their signature taste. Examples include the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Sazerac. (link our cocktail recipes in a hyperlink) Bitters can also be added to highballs like soda water or mixed with other spirits to create unique flavor combinations.

Bitters and Soda

A simple and refreshing way to enjoy bitters is by mixing them with soda water, creating a non-alcoholic beverage known as "bitters and soda." This drink highlights the flavor of the bitters while quenching thirst and providing a hint of effervescence.

Uncommon Uses for Bitters

In addition to cocktails, bitters can be used in various other drinks and even culinary applications. Adding bitters to beer, coffee, tea, or lemonade can enhance their flavor profiles. Bitters can also be incorporated into marinades, sauces, and vinaigrettes to add depth to savory dishes.

How Do You Measure Bitters?

Bitters are typically measured in "dashes," with one dash equivalent to roughly 0.6 to 1 milliliter of liquid. While the exact amount may vary depending on factors like bottle size and pour technique, one to two dashes are commonly used in most cocktail recipes.

How Much is a Dash of Bitters?

One dash of bitters is approximately between 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon. While it may seem like a small amount, bitters are highly concentrated, so even a few dashes can significantly impact the flavor of a drink.

Where to Find Bitters

Bitters are widely available at liquor stores, specialty food stores, and online retailers. They come in small bottles and are relatively affordable, making them accessible to both amateur and professional bartenders alike. Additionally, many cocktail supply stores carry a diverse selection of bitters flavors to suit different preferences.

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Are There Any Bitters Substitutes?

In a pinch, herbal bitter liqueurs like Campari, absinthe, or Fernet-Branca can be used as substitutes for cocktail bitters in drinks. While they may not replicate the exact flavor profile of traditional bitters, they can provide similar bitterness and complexity to a cocktail.

Best Bitters Drink Recipes

From classic cocktails to modern creations, bitters play a crucial role in numerous drink recipes. Whether you're crafting an Old Fashioned, a Negroni, (link our recipes from our cocktails tab in a hyperlink), or an innovative cocktail of your own invention, experimenting with different bitters flavors can elevate your drink to new heights of flavor complexity and balance.

Using Bitters in Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Bitters can also be incorporated into non-alcoholic drinks for added flavor and complexity. While traditional bitters contain alcohol, non-alcoholic versions are available for those who prefer to avoid alcohol entirely. These non-alcoholic bitters offer similar flavor profiles without the intoxicating effects.