What are Bitters and Why Should You Care?
Essentially, bitters are concentrated flavour extracts that add depth, complexity and balance to cocktails and other drinks. Once relegated to the back bars of old-fashioned pubs, these potent concentrates are making their way into the toolkits of amateur and professional mixologists alike. But what exactly are bitters and why have they become such a staple ingredient?
Bitters are intensely flavoured liquid mixtures made from roots, barks, fruits, herbs, spices and botanicals, all macerated or distilled in a high-proof neutral spirit. Despite their low alcohol content, they pack a flavourful punch. Just a few dashes in a cocktail brings extraordinary nuance, tempering sweetness and tying all the ingredients together.
As renowned London barman Tony Conigliaro puts it, “Bitters are the salt and pepper of the cocktail world – they enhance flavours rather than overpower them.” From aromatic orange bitters brightening a dry martini to angostura bitters lending warmth to an old fashioned, bitters bridge the gap between the subtle and the robust.
Whilst we’ve highlighted some top UK bitters brands like Bitter Truth, Scrappy’s and Junction 56, don’t overlook international staples like the New Orleans-born Peychaud’s Bitters or acclaimed orange bitters from Regan’s in San Francisco.
A Bit of History
Bitters originated as patented medicinal tonics in the 18th and 19th centuries, promising to cure all manner of ailments. Brands like the popular Dr J Collis Browne’s Indian Tonic Water (think Schweppes) still survive today.
As people discovered these remedies weren’t half bad with a splash of soda or spirits, bitters made their way behind the bar. Legend has it that the quintessential Manhattan cocktail was born when a bartender spiked a patron’s Angostura bitters with rye whiskey. The rest, as they say, is history.
How to Buy, Store and Use Bitters
When selecting bitters, seek out quality ingredients and small-batch production for the best depth of flavour. Trusted UK artisanal brands like Bitter Truth, Scrappy’s and Junction 56 should be readily available. Store bitters sealed in a cool dark place as you would vermouth or other fortified wines. An unopened bottle will keep for several years.
Though dashes and drops may seem ambiguous, a little goes a long way. For a 750ml mix, 5-8 dashes is standard. Start with 2-3 dashes of orange bitters in a whisky sour for a fragrant twist or 4-6 dashes of aromatic bitters in an old fashioned to accent the rich sweetness. Add bitters slowly and taste as you build the drink. Bear in mind that different bitters serve different purposes. Spiced and aromatic bitters accentuate fruity and herbal notes, whilst citrus bitters highlight bright fresh flavours.
Perfect Pairings: Foods to Compliment Bitters
Rich meats like braised lamb shanks, seared steaks or smoked duck breast make excellent partners for bitters like orange or aromatic types. The bitterness and brightness counterbalance the dense proteins beautifully. Citrusy seafood like prawns, scallops or mussels also pair wonderfully with grapefruit or other citrus bitters. Contrast the sweetness of treacle tart or sticky toffee pudding with an after dinner tipple laced with two or three dashes of barrel-aged bitters. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a perfectly paired nightcap, like crème brûlée with a bitter-edged single malt Scotch.
In Closing
Hopefully this has convinced you to give bitters their due! Keep a well-stocked bar, experiment with different styles, brands and combinations, and above all, enjoy responsibly. Cheers!