• Privacy & Disclosure Policy
  • Contact
  • About

Gin and Gemini

It's 5 o'clock somewhere

  • Gin and Gemini
  • Food & Drink
  • Giveaways
  • Home Entertaining

Using Bitters and Syrups to Enhance Your Cocktails

Please note that some of this site’s links are affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Gin&Gemini.co.uk is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Bitters and syrups are cocktail staples that add complexity and balance to drinks. Used for centuries by bartenders, cocktail enthusiasts, and home mixologists alike, bitters and syrups can be made from a variety of things such as citrus peel, herbs, or spices.

For this blog post, we will cover the basics of cocktail bitters and syrups so you can get started with your own cocktail creations!

woman in black tank top holding clear wine glass

What Are Cocktail Bitters?

Bitters were originally used as health tonics. They quickly found a home in mixed drinks, where they are utilized as concentrated flavor enhancers that provide a pleasant zing to the mix, even though they’re only used in very small quantities. Herbs, fruits, spices, and roots are some of the ingredients commonly included in secret formulas.

Bitters can be made from a variety of ingredients, but the most common are quinine and gentian root.

Quinine has an alcohol content ranging from 20% to 50%. Because they’re used in such tiny amounts, bitters seldom have an impact on a drink’s alcoholic strength.

It’s critical to distinguish cocktail bitters from bitter herbal spirits, which are typically served as aperitifs and digestifs.

Aperol, Campari, Cynar, and Fernet Branca are examples of beverages that have a prominent bitterness taste. In the Italian language, Amari is similar to bitters. They’re typically known as “a bitter” or an “amaro,” and they come in full-sized bottles. They may be consumed alone or used to flavor mixed drinks in shot-sized doses.

Cocktail bitters (or simply “bitters,” less often) are concentrated potions that come in tiny bottles and only a few dashes are necessary for each drink.

Angostura Bitters

Angostura is the most well-known brand of bitters. For years, whenever a cocktail required “bitters,” many people assumed you would buy Angostura Aromatic Bitters instead.

While there are other choices nowadays, this bottle should still be included in any bar and useful for everything from a metropolitan to a pink gin.

The distinctive Angostura bitters bottle

In 1824, a German doctor named Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert began producing Angostura, a secret combination of tropical herbs and plants. The company is now based in Trinidad, and the recipe is still closely guarded.

The brand’s distinctive and cartoonishly large label has also become a trademark (as well as other bitters). It’s said that the correct size was requested, but no one noticed because everyone thought someone else would take care of it. No one corrected it, so the label stayed.

In 2008, Angostura debuted its orange bitters. This bottle has the same distinctive label as its fragrant counterpart, making it easy to spot on the shelf. Clear bitters have a citrus flavor and work well in drinks like the Orange Martini or any other combination that requires a little acidic, bitter citrus touch.

Peychaud’s Bitters

Antoine Peychaud was an apothecary in New Orleans in the 1830s, and he began his mixing career after hours at his pharmacy. Peychaud combined his secret bitters recipe with brandy and absinthe to create the first Sazerac, a cocktail that has defined and influenced subsequent cocktails.

The taste of Peychaud’s Aromatic Cocktail Bitters is somewhat different from other aromatic bitters; it has a stronger anise flavor, similar to absinthe, rather than a spiced herbal combination.

Although this type of bitters is frequently used in cocktail recipes, it’s still beneficial to use Peychaud’s sparingly than you would Angostura.

Fee Brothers Bitters

Since the 1950s, Fee Brothers has specialized in making bitters in Rochester, New York. A butcher’s shop began for the family in 1847 and evolved into a winery and import business.

The balsamic vinegar and dry vermouth were introduced later, with the former growing in popularity among the most diversified bitters. They also produce other high-quality cocktail mixers, such as olive brine for dirty martinis, today.

The taste and usefulness of Old-Fashioned Aromatic Bitters, which is made by the same company as Angostura, compares favorably to that of Angostura’s. Fee Brothers Whiskey Barrel-Aged Bitters can be used in place of aromatic bitters in modern mixed drinks such as the rustic Manhattan.

Fee Brothers is more fascinating to explore in the more unusual tastes. The choice includes black walnut, celery, grapefruit, mint, peach, and plum, all of which add an interesting twist to a variety of drinks. Spring-worthy rhubarb collins includes the rhubarb bitters; be sure to try them with the recipe.

View more flavours on Amazon

Regans’ Orange Bitters No. 6

Regans’ Orange Bitter No. 6 is a bright star in the world of mixed drinks. It was designed by experts and authors Gary and Mardee Regan to improve on an already excellent orange bitter.

The pair devised their own in the 1990s, which resulted in versatile bitters made with orange peel, cardamom, caraway, coriander, and other herbs. It’s a great match for any cocktail that requires or could benefit from orange bitters, including classics like sophisticated whiskey and modern inventions like the fall spice cordial.

How much is a dash of bitters?

What is the ratio of bitters dashes to teaspoons? The quantity of a dash of bitters ranges from ⅛ teaspoon to ¼ teaspoon. Most drinks require 1-2 dashes. Tip the bottle straight into the drink and give it a good shake to add bitters.

How much alcohol is in bitters?

Bitters, as a class, have a relatively high alcohol content of 35 to 45 percent ABV (alcohol by volume), thus they are very potent. They’re used in such little amounts, though, that the alcohol they add to a cocktail is virtually inconsequential.

The amount of dashes added to a cocktail is 0.04 ounces, which is roughly the same as half a teaspoon. Multiply that by the alcohol concentration, 0.45, and you’ve got less than 0.01 ounces of pure ethanol in every drink!

cocktail bitters

What are cocktail syrups?

One of those unique components that may totally change a drink is homemade, customized cocktail syrups. You can quickly create it and enjoy it at home, whether it’s basic simple syrup, demerara syrup, a fantastic seasonal flavor combination such as lavender strawberry, or a classic like grenadine!

Don’t be scared off by complicated recipes that require a lot of preparation and cooking time. Many cocktail syrups don’t even need to be heated, and whipping them up is quick and enjoyable.

cocktail syrups

Simple (sugar) syrup

Simple syrup is one of the most common syrups you’ll see in cocktail recipes and is made with water and sugar. There are lots of complex recipes for it but the simplest way to make it is:

  1. Measure equal parts of water and white sugar.
  2. Add to a mason jar.
  3. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
  4. Store in the refrigerator.

Demerara syrup

Demerara sugar is a less refined brown sugar with a mild molasses flavor that’s less processed than ordinary brown sugar. Its flavor complements well with brown spirits like aged rums or whiskies, and it’s ideal in mixed drinks.

Honey syrup

Honey syrup is a thick liquid made by combining honey with an equal amount of water. You may use it to add sweetness without the added carbohydrates and sugar that would normally come from honey. If you’ve ever tried to put straight honey into an ice-cold beverage, you know how difficult it can be to dissolve.

Agave syrup

Agave syrup is a commercially manufactured product derived from a variety of agave species. There’s no need to DIY anything here; agave syrup may be found at any supermarket and is usually quite inexpensive.

Fruit syrups

I like to experiment with flavor combinations using fresh (and, in some cases, frozen) fruit I have on hand. Apple, pear, melon, dragonfruit, peaches, pineapple, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry. Physalis berry is an exception; you can use any other kind of fruit instead.

Herbal syrups

Herbal syrups are one of the most interesting cocktail ingredients (in my opinion), and they’re no more difficult to make than fruit syrups. In reality, they’re probably a little less time-consuming. 

Stocking up on those bitters and syrups

In short, cocktail bitters and syrups are important ingredients in cocktails. They add flavor and complexity to drinks and can be made at home with easily accessible ingredients.  Start with the ones you need for the drinks you make the most often then experiment from there!

Other Cocktail Posts You May Like

Why Use Cocktail Garnishes?

11 Unusual Liqueurs To Use In Cocktails

The Best Cocktail Shaker

Tweet
Share
Share
Pin
0 Shares
«
»

Food & Drink 3

Reader Interactions

Trackbacks

  1. Understanding the Different Types of Cocktail Liqueurs - Gin and Gemini says:
    April 21, 2022 at 12:14 pm

    […] What Are Cocktail Bitters and Syrups? […]

    Reply
  2. Choosing The Best Cocktail Shaker For Your Home Bar - Gin and Gemini says:
    April 21, 2022 at 12:23 pm

    […] What Are Cocktail Bitters and Syrups? […]

    Reply
  3. 11 Simple, Delicious Frozen Cocktail Recipes - Gin and Gemini says:
    April 21, 2022 at 1:22 pm

    […] What are cocktail bitters & syrups? […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • Cocktail Recipes: The Manhattan
  • May 2022 Giveaway: Win an M&S Hamper
  • 11 Unusual Liqueurs to use in Cocktails
  • 11 Simple, Delicious Frozen Cocktail Recipes
  • Using Bitters and Syrups to Enhance Your Cocktails
Gin & Gemini contains affiliate and referral links. This means if you click through to register or purchase an item, we receive a commission or credit at no extra cost to you.
Gin & Gemini, Unit 18401, PO Box 4336, Manchester, M61 0BW

Categories

  • Cocktail Recipes
  • Food & Drink
  • Giveaways
  • Home Entertaining
  • Lifestyle

Footer

Copyright © 2022 · Darling theme by Restored 316

Copyright © 2022 · Darling Theme on Genesis Framework ·2UP Creative Media, Unit 18401, PO Box 4336, Manchester, M61 0BW·

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT