Oftentimes, the ingredients that make or break a cocktail or mocktail are often ones that are hidden in plain sight. One of the most underappreciated yet essential components to these drinks are the bitters. This is a secret weapon of bartenders everywhere, taking drinks from boring to brilliant thanks to their complex layers of flavor and intrigue.
From classic cocktails to creative mocktails, bitters form the foundation of mixology. Today we will talk about what bitters are, and why they’re so important in the world of beverages.
Bitters Defined
Bitters are basically highly concentrated flavoring agents made by infusing herbs, fruits, spices, roots and other botanicals in alcohol. These ingredients are steeped in a high-proof alcohol to extract their base flavors and compounds, resulting in a small but potent bottle of liquid. This bottle usually contains between 30 and 50 percent alcohol by volume. All you need are a few dashes of bitters to transform a drink, adding balance and depth.
Originally developed for medicinal purposes in the 19th century, bitters quickly became a mainstay in the world of mixology. Today, bitters come in a wide variety of flavors, from the traditional Angostura to modern, exotic varieties such as orange, chocolate and lavender.
Changing the Game of Cocktails
Bitters add complexity and depth to any cocktail, the most famous of which is the iconic Old Fashioned. It’s made with sugar, whiskey, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters, which are responsible for adding a balanced flavor profile. Why? They cut the sweetness of the sugar and offer a spicy kick to the richness of the whiskey.
Bitters add to the harmony of a cocktail by balancing the sweet, sour and bitter components. Here are a few examples:
- Negroni: A few dashes of orange bitters will cut the bitterness of the Campari, adding an aromatic citrus note while bridging the different flavors together.
- Manhattan: Angostura bitters add a layered taste to the combination of bourbon and sweet vermouth.
In addition to helping balancing flavors, bitters work as a flavor enhancer – similar to the way salt brings out natural flavors of food.
The Role of Bitters in Mocktails
Yes, bitters are traditionally used in alcoholic beverages, but they play a role in mocktails as well. Because mocktails don’t contain alcohol, the role of bitters is even more crucial because they mimic the depth and richness that would typically be brought by the alcohol component.
They are used to balance out overly sweet ingredients such as fruit juices or syrups. Take a Citrus Spritz, for instance. The orange bitters cut through the sweetness of a soda or citrus juice for a more balanced and refreshing taste.
Types of Bitters
Angostura Bitters is one of the most well-known and widely used brands, but there are many others with their own unique flavor profile. Here’s a look at some of the more popular bitters:
- Orange Bitters: A must-have for many classic cocktails thanks to their citrus-forward profile, these are often used in Martinis or Old Fashioneds.
- Aromatic Bitters: Bringing a balanced blend of spices, herbs, and roots, these are the most common type of bitter.
- Chocolate Bitters: Often used in dessert-inspired drinks or for a deeper flavor in darker spirits, chocolate bitters offer a rich, decadent twist.
- Peach or Cherry Bitters: These fruit-forward bitters offer a touch of sweetness and complexity.
- Herbal Bitters: Made from botanicals like mint, rosemary, and thyme, herbal bitters add aromatic depth to any drink.
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Whether you're crafting a classic cocktail or experimenting with a creative mocktail, elevate the experience by adding a few dashed of bitters. And come to Beverage Universe for all the mixers and sodas you need to make your creations. Contact us today!