Bitters

Bitters: The Bartender's Secret Weapon

Bitters, a cornerstone of sophisticated cocktail crafting, have journeyed from medicinal origins in the 19th century to their modern status as a bartender's secret weapon. These potent flavor enhancers, once a staple in dry martinis and other elegantly named drinks, saw a decline before roaring back into favor in the 1990s.  Today, we’ll take a deep dive into how these nuanced ingredients zest up our drinks and where to buy bitters so your next cocktail party is one to remember.

What Are Bitters?

Bitters for cocktails are concentrated flavor extracts, vital in crafting a good drink. Bitters transform into a potent taste enhancer made by infusing botanical elements like bark, root, and citrus peels into a high-proof spirit. Non-alcohol versions, like glycerin-based bitters, are also famous for their spicy flavor and longevity.

While bitters can be inherently sharp, their flavor profiles vary widely, from sweet to astringent, depending on the ingredients. This diversity is what makes bitters for drinks a versatile component in mixology. Ingredients like gentian root and cinchona bark contribute to the traditional bitter flavor, whereas orange peel and jasmine flower offer softer notes.

Bitters originated as medicinal tonics and preservatives, evolving into two main categories: cocktail bitters, designed to elevate the flavor of drinks, and digestive bitters, aimed at soothing stomach discomfort.

Bitters for cocktails are akin to a liquid spice. Adding just a few dashes to a bitters cocktail recipe can help the drink's depth and harmonize different spirits. They're especially favored in classic cocktails like Amaretto Sours, which serve as both a flavor enhancer and a garnish.

Types of Bitters

Before diving into how to use bitters for mixed drinks, it's essential to understand the various types available, each offering a unique flavor profile that enhances cocktails in diverse ways:

• Aromatic Bitters: A key player in the bitters mix, this category includes the renowned Angostura bitters. They balance various botanicals, providing no dominant flavor but imparting cozy notes of spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, or clove. Ideal for a vast array of classic cocktails.
• Orange Bitters: Often a staple in mixed drink bitters, these are commonly made from orange peel and add a distinct citrusy flavor, with nuances of cardamom, caraway, and cinnamon. Brands like Regan's and Angostura offer unique variations.
• Peychaud's Bitters: Best known for their role in the Sazerac cocktail, these New Orleans-originated bitters have a sweeter profile with hints of anise and mint, enhancing the complexity of many mixed drinks.
• Herbal Bitters: Dominated by specific herbs like tarragon, lavender, or mint, these bitters infuse a botanical touch into cocktails, perfect for those seeking an herbal undertone in their drinks.
• Spice Bitters: With a warming, woodsy taste, spice bitters emphasize flavors such as coriander or cinnamon, adding a spicy edge to your cocktail creations.
• Nut Bitters: Infusing flavors like walnut, pecan, and pistachio, nut bitters add a unique depth to various drinks, especially those with richer profiles.
• Creole Bitters: Blending spicy and sweet notes with a distinct red hue adds complexity to a wide range of cocktails, making them a versatile choice in any bitters mix.
• Chocolate Bitters: Merging cacao with spices, chocolate bitters offer a decadent depth, perfect for enhancing dessert cocktails or complementing darker spirits.
• Lemon Bitters: Providing a bright, citrusy note, these bitters are ideal for lighter, gin or vodka-based cocktails, adding a refreshing twist.
• Grapefruit Bitters: With a tangy, slightly bitter grapefruit flavor, these bitters are perfect for summer cocktails or for adding a unique twist to classic recipes.
• Cherry Bitters: Offering a fruity yet tart taste, cherry bitters excel in whiskey-based cocktails or for adding an extra layer of complexity to a Manhattan.
• Celery Bitters: These bitters bring a fresh, vegetal quality, perfect for savory cocktails or enhancing a Bloody Mary.

Each type of bitter can transform a cocktail, adding layers of flavor and complexity. Experimenting with these different types allows for an elevated cocktail crafting experience, making them a must-have in any mixologist's toolkit. 

In our next section, we'll cover how to use them and where to buy cocktail bitters so you can start experimenting.

Using Bitters in Cocktails

In cocktail crafting, bitters are crucial, often the secret ingredient, adding complexity without dominating the drink. A "dash," about ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon, is standard, yet their impact is significant. Bitters for cocktails have a long shelf life and are key in many famous cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Sazerac, and Negroni.

Classic recipes may specify a particular bitter, such as Angostura in an old-fashioned or Peychaud's in a Sazerac, but there's scope for creativity. For example, aromatic bitters with tequila can twist a margarita, while citrus bitters enhance a vodka soda. This versatility extends bitters beyond just Manhattans and old-fashioned, making them a valuable addition to any cocktail needing an extra flourish.

Selecting the right bitters involves considering the cocktail's overall flavors. Recipes often specify exact bitters, even by brand, as flavors vary greatly. Substituting bitters can change a drink's intended flavor, similar to altering a key ingredient in a recipe.

Bitters’ usage in cocktails can vary. Mixed in, they disperse flavor evenly, whereas a dash on top offers a concentrated aroma burst. In some innovative drinks, like the Sazeraquiri, bitters are more than an accent; they're the main feature, with a whole ounce of Peychaud's used in the cocktail.

Bitters also enhance non-alcoholic beverages, like the mix of lemon, lime bitters, and club soda. For those avoiding alcohol, spirit-free bitters provide similar flavor enhancements.

Most bitters have 35 to 45% ABV, but their small usage amounts mean they add negligible alcohol to a drink. For instance, 2 dashes of bitters add just 0.01 ounces of alcohol.

Substitutes like Campari, absinthe, or Fernet-Branca can mimic cocktail bitters in drinks if you're out of bitters.

Explore Our Diverse Selection of Bitters

Where can I buy bitters for cocktails? Well, let's explore the exciting world of bitters available at Curiada, where we offer a diverse selection for 2-5 day delivery. From the enchanting flavors of cherry bark vanilla and sakura to the invigorating kick of togarashi and coffee bitters, our range includes something for every palate. Whether you're crafting a classic or experimenting with new combinations, our bitters can elevate your cocktails to new heights.  We also offer a selection of cocktail syrups that make great cocktails as simple as mixed drinks.

Creative Cocktails with Bitters

Remember, bitters are more than just a cocktail ingredient; they're a tool for creativity and flavor. As you explore our collection, we encourage you to also dive into our curated selection of cocktail recipes featuring bitters. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just beginning your cocktail journey, these recipes will inspire you to discover the transformative power of cocktail bitters in your drinks.

Discover our cocktail recipes with bitters

Unleash Your Cocktail Creativity

Embrace the art of cocktail crafting with Curiada's bitters collection, and let these versatile flavor enhancers become your secret ingredient for unforgettable drinks.