What Is Bitters Flavour?

Bitters is an aromatic liquor used to flavor cocktails. Made from an array of spices and fruit mixtures, bitters puts the finishing touch on commonly consumed cocktail recipes.

History

• Magazines published in New York in 1806 describe a cocktail as a drink mixed with the combination of sugar, water, alcohol and bitters. The fragrant liquor known as bitters increased in popularity since that time to make martinis and mixed drinks.

Types

• While the ingredients in bitters vary by brand, a dominating flavor can establish itself in the liquor. Some makers of bitters have created orange, celery, peach or rhubarb flavors. These flavors mixed with alcohols bring out the essence of a fruit or vegetable in the drink.

Spices in Bitters

• Those wishing to create their own concoction of bitters can do so with some household spices and a small bottle of vodka. Cloves, coriander seeds, allspice, oranges and cardamom mixed together make an orange-flavored spicy blend. Some manufacturers add the bark of trees, cinnamon or anise.

Brands of Bitters

• Angostura bitters has been around since the early 1800s, although other brands such as Peychaud's Bitters, Regan's Orange Bitters No.6, and Fee Brothers offer alternative choices to consumers. Each brand has its own special blend of spices, some with complex flavors and some with fresh fruit overtones.