Cocktail bitters are a concentrated mixture of herbs, spices, roots, and other natural flavors that are used to add depth and complexity to cocktails. They are typically made by infusing a neutral spirit with a variety of botanicals and then diluting the mixture with water and sometimes other ingredients like sugar or glycerin. Bitters are typically used in small amounts, as a few drops can go a long way in adding flavor to a cocktail.
There are many different types of bitters available, each with its own unique flavour profile. Some common types of bitters include Angostura bitters, which are a blend of spices and have a strong, bitter flavour; orange bitters, which are made with the peel of bitter oranges and have a citrusy flavour; and Peychaud’s bitters, which are made with anise and have a slightly sweet, licorice-like flavour.
Bitters can be used in a wide variety of cocktails, including classics like the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned, as well as in more modern creations. They are often used to balance out the sweetness of other ingredients in a cocktail, and can add depth and complexity to the overall flavour profile of a drink.
There are many different types of bitters available, and the popularity of a particular type can vary depending on the region and personal taste. However, some of the most popular types of bitters include:
- Angostura bitters: These are a blend of spices and have a strong, bitter flavour. They are often used in cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan.
- Orange bitters: These are made with the peel of bitter oranges and have a citrusy flavour. They are commonly used in cocktails like the Martini and the Boulevardier.
- Peychaud’s bitters: These are made with anise and have a slightly sweet, licorice-like flavour. They are often used in cocktails like the Sazerac and the Vieux Carré.
- Aromatic bitters: These are a blend of spices and botanicals that have a complex, aromatic flavour. They are commonly used in cocktails like the Negroni and the Manhattan.
- Celery bitters: These are made with celery and other botanicals and have a savory, earthy flavour. They are often used in cocktails like the Bloody Mary and the Prairie Oyster.
- Chocolate Bitters: These are made with Cacao beans and have a chocolate-y, earthy flavour. They are also often used in cocktails like the Negroni and Old Fashioned.
It’s worth noting that these are just a few examples of the many different types of bitters available, and there are many other types to explore and experiment with as well.
Bitters are a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, and can add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile of a drink. Here are a few examples of cocktails that use bitters as a key ingredient:
- Old Fashioned: This classic cocktail is made with whiskey, sugar, and a few dashes of bitters. It’s typically served over ice and garnished with an orange peel.
- Manhattan: This cocktail is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of bitters. It’s usually served up in a Martini glass and garnished with a cherry.
- Martini: This classic cocktail is made with gin and dry vermouth, and is often finished with a few dashes of bitters. It’s typically served up in a Martini glass and garnished with an olive.
- Negroni: This cocktail is made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, which is a type of Italian bitter liqueur. It’s usually served up in a rocks glass and garnished with an orange peel.
- Boulevardier: This cocktail is similar to a Negroni, but is made with whiskey instead of gin. It’s typically made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari, and is served up in a rocks glass and garnished with an orange peel.
These are just a few examples of cocktails that use bitters as a key ingredient. There are many other cocktails that incorporate bitters as well, and experimenting with different types of bitters can help you create unique and flavorful drinks.
