What Is In Bitters?

by Holistic_Health

Bitters are a type of alcohol that is typically made by infusing herbs, fruits, and other spices into a high-proof base spirit.

Bitters have a long history, with some recipes dating back hundreds of years. The exact origins of bitters are unknown, but they are thought to have originated in the Middle East or Asia. Bitters were originally used for medicinal purposes, and it wasn't until the 19th century that they became popular as a flavoring agent in cocktails.

What Is In Bitters?
What Is In Bitters?

What is the purpose of using bitters?

Bitters are used to add flavor and depth to cocktails. They can be used to create a wide range of flavors, from citrusy and fruity to spicy and herbal. Bitters can also be used to offset the sweetness of other ingredients in a cocktail.

When used properly, bitters can enhance the flavor of a cocktail and make it more complex. They can also be used to create interesting visual effects, such as when they are added to clear spirits to create a "cloudy" drink.

Bitters are typically added in small amounts, so that their flavor is not overpowering. A few drops or dashes of bitters is all that is needed to flavor a cocktail.

There are many different brands and types of bitters available, so there is no one "right" way to use them. Experiment with different bitters to find the flavors you like best. And don't be afraid to get creative - there are no rules when it comes to making cocktails!

Fee Brothers Bar Cocktail Bitters

Set of 6
Fee Brothers Bar Cocktail Bitters - Set of 6

How Much Alcohol Is In Bitters?

The alcohol content of bitters varies depending on the brand and type of bitters. However, most bitters contain between 15% and 45% alcohol by volume. So, if you are adding bitters to a cocktail, be sure to add them in small amounts so that the drink is not too strong. Cheers!

Wizzley

What Do Bitters Taste Like?

1. Citrus Bitters

These bitters have a tart and tangy flavor, with notes of lemon, orange, and grapefruit. They are often used in cocktails that are based on gin or vodka.

 

2. Aromatic Bitters

These bitters have a complex and intense flavor, with notes of spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. They are often used in cocktails that are based on bourbon or rye.

 

3. Herbal Bitters

These bitters have a fresh and herbaceous flavor, with notes of rosemary, thyme, and lavender. They are often used in cocktails that are based on gin or vodka.

 

4. Chocolate Bitters

These bitters have a rich and chocolatey flavor, with notes of cocoa and coffee. They are often used in cocktails that are based on bourbon or rye.

 

5. Cherry Bitters

These bitters have a sweet and fruity flavor, with notes of cherries and other red fruits. They are often used in cocktails that are based on gin or vodka.

 

6. Smoked Bitters

These bitters have a smoky and woody flavor, with notes of bourbon or rye. They are often used in cocktails that are based on Scotch whisky.

 

7. Coffee Bitters

These bitters have a rich and roasted flavor, with notes of coffee and chocolate. They are often used in cocktails that are based on bourbon or rye.

 

8. Spicy Bitters

These bitters have a fiery and peppery flavor, with notes of chili peppers and other spices. They are often used in cocktails that are based on tequila or mezcal.

 

9. Fruity Bitters

These bitters have a sweet and fruity flavor, with notes of citrus, berries, and other fruits. They are often used in cocktails that are based on gin or vodka.

 

10. Floral Bitters

These bitters have a delicate and floral flavor, with notes of roses and other flowers. They are often used in cocktails that are based on gin or vodka.

Cocktail Bitters and How To Use Them

Why Do People Drink Bitters?

There are many reasons why people drink bitters. Some people enjoy the taste of bitters, while others find that they help to settle the stomach. Bitters can also be used as a hangover cure, or to help with indigestion.

Bitters are often used in cocktails, as they can add flavor and depth to a drink. They can also be used to offset the sweetness of other ingredients in a cocktail.

Bitters can be enjoyed on their own or added to other drinks. If you are new to bitters, start by adding a few drops or dashes to your favorite cocktail. You can also try mixing bitters with soda water for a refreshing and flavorful drink.

 

Why I drink THIS | The Tale of the Bitters Shot

5 Famous Drinks Made With Bitters

1. The Manhattan

This classic cocktail is made with rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It is traditionally served up in a martini glass.

2. The Old Fashioned

This classic cocktail is made with bourbon or rye, sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange peel. It is usually served on the rocks.

3. The Negroni

This Italian cocktail is made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It is traditionally served up in a martini glass.

4. The Boulevardier

This cocktail is similar to a negroni, but is made with bourbon or rye instead of gin. It is also traditionally served up in a martini glass.

5. The Sazerac

This classic cocktail is made with rye, absinthe, bitters, and a twist of lemon peel. It is usually served up in a rocks glass.

Bourbon Bitters Bundle: Woodford Reserve Aromatic, Spiced Cherry, Orange, and Chocolate Cocktail Bitters

Bourbon Bitters Bundle: Woodford Reserve Aromatic, Spiced Cherry, O...

What Else Can You Do With Bitters?

In addition to using bitters in cocktails, they can also be used to flavor other drinks like coffee, tea, and lemonade. They can also be used to make homemade bitters by infusing them with different herbs, spices, and fruits. And, of course, bitters can be used as a cooking ingredient to add flavor to soups, stews, and sauces. So, get creative and experiment with different ways to use bitters in your kitchen!

Bitters With Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

 1 cup of water

 1 black tea bag

 2-3 tablespoons of honey

 1 tablespoon of citrus bitters

 Directions:

 1. Bring the water to a boil.

 2. Steep the tea bag in the hot water for 3-5 minutes.

 3. Remove the tea bag and stir in the honey and bitters.

 4. Enjoy your homemade bitters tea!

Bitters With Coffee Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup of hot coffee

2-3 tablespoons of sugar

1 tablespoon of chocolate bitters

Directions:

1. Stir the sugar and bitters into the hot coffee.

2. Enjoy your homemade bitters coffee!

Bitters are a versatile and interesting way to add flavor to your cocktails. So get creative and experiment with different bitters to find the flavors you like best. Cheers!

Cheers!
Cheers!

More articles in the 'bitter' series...

Can bitter melon cure diabetes?
Herbal bitters have a long history as a digestive aid -- perfect for holiday indigestion.
Updated: 09/23/2022, Holistic_Health
 
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AgingandDisability on 10/08/2022

I don't drink much but I certainly think of lots of beverages to use bitters with. Thank you for sharing this!

Holistic_Health on 09/29/2022

@ WriterArtist They certainly are. I have a relative that takes them for that reason. Thanks for commenting!

WriterArtist on 09/29/2022

Bitters are good for diabetes. Bitter gourd and neem juice are particularly good. Maybe bitter cocktails are good too but I am not sure of the alcoholic content in them.

Holistic_Health on 09/16/2022

Hello @DerdriuMarriner - The list of 5 Famous Drinks Made With Bitters is in no particular order. Thank you for commenting!

DerdriuMarriner on 09/16/2022

In particular, I appreciate the list of five famous bitters drinks. It's interesting how three out of four are associated with the attractive martini glass and two with rocks glasses (old fashioned is served in a rocks glass, correct?).

Is the sequencing in your list indicative of most to least popular, or vice versa?

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