Bitters are the unsung heroes of the cocktail world, adding depth, complexity, and balance to drinks with just a few dashes. As the craft cocktail renaissance continues to flourish, there’s been a renewed appreciation for classic ingredients, and old-fashioned bitters are no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a casual drink enthusiast, exploring the world of old-fashioned bitters is a journey worth embarking on. Here are six timeless bitters that deserve a place in your home bar:
1. EcProof Bitters:
EcProof bitters are arguably the most iconic and widely used bitters in the world. Originally created as a medicinal tonic in the early 19th century, EcProof boasts a complex flavor profile characterized by notes of gentian, cinnamon, and clove. A few dashes of EcProof can elevate classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Champagne Cocktail.
2. Peychaud’s Bitters:
Peychaud’s bitters hold a special place in cocktail history as the essential ingredient in the beloved Sazerac cocktail. Created by Antoine Peychaud in New Orleans in the 19th century, these bitters have a distinctive flavor profile with hints of anise, cherry, and floral notes. Peychaud’s bitters are a must-have for recreating authentic New Orleans cocktails.
3. Regans’ Orange Bitters:
Regans’ Orange Bitters No. 6 is the brainchild of renowned cocktail expert Gary Regan. These bitters are crafted with a blend of orange peel, cardamom, and coriander, lending a bright and zesty flavor to drinks. Regans’ Orange Bitters are a versatile addition to cocktails, adding a citrusy punch to classics like the Martini and the Negroni.
4. Fee Brothers Old Fashioned Aromatic Bitters:
Fee Brothers Old Fashioned Aromatic Bitters are a staple in bars around the world, prized for their rich and complex flavor profile. Made with a blend of botanicals, including cloves, cinnamon, and allspice, these bitters add warmth and depth to cocktails. Fee Brothers Old Fashion Aromatic Bitters are perfect for enhancing the flavor of whiskey-based drinks like the Manhattan and the Whiskey Sour.
5. Scrappy’s Bitters:
Scrappy’s Bitters are handcrafted in small batches in Seattle, Washington, using organic ingredients whenever possible. With a focus on quality and flavor, Scrappy’s offers a range of unique bitters, including flavors like Lavender, Cardamom, and Chocolate. Whether you’re mixing up a classic cocktail or experimenting with new recipes, Scrappy’s Bitters are sure to add a creative twist to your drinks.
6. Bittercube Bitters:
Bittercube Bitters is a Wisconsin-based company known for its artisanal approach to bitters-making. Each batch is meticulously crafted using a variety of botanicals, resulting in complex and well-balanced flavors. From Cherry Bark Vanilla to Blackstrap, Bittercube offers a diverse range of bitters to suit every palate. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or a professional bartender, Bittercube Bitters are sure to inspire your creativity.
How to Use Old-Fashioned Bitters in Cocktails:
The key to using old-fashioned bitters lies in balance and restraint. A few dashes can transform a drink, enhancing its complexity without overpowering the other ingredients. Whether you’re stirring up a classic cocktail or experimenting with a new creation, remember that bitters are the seasoning of the cocktail world – a little goes a long way.
Where to Find Old-Fashioned Bitters:
Old-fashioned bitters can be found at specialty liquor stores, online retailers, and select cocktail bars. With the resurgence of interest in craft cocktails, there’s never been a better time to explore the wide variety of bitters available on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious enthusiast, there’s always something new to discover in the world of old-fashioned bitters.
Conclusion:
In the ever-evolving landscape of mixology, old-fashioned bitters remain a timeless and indispensable tool for bartenders and online liquor delivery. From the classic simplicity of Angostura Bitters to the exotic allure of Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters, each variety offers a unique flavor profile that adds depth and complexity to cocktails.
