The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that has been a staple of mixology for over a century. Its rich, complex flavor profile is due in large part to the use of bitters, a concentrated flavoring made from botanicals such as roots, bark, and citrus peel. But with so many types of bitters available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your Old Fashioned. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of bitters and explore the different types, their flavor profiles, and how to use them to create the perfect Old Fashioned.
A Brief History of Bitters
Bitters have been used in cocktails for centuries, dating back to the early days of mixology. The first bitters were made from a combination of botanicals such as gentian, orange peel, and cassia bark, which were steeped in a neutral spirit to create a concentrated flavoring. These early bitters were used to add depth and complexity to cocktails, and were often used in small quantities due to their intense flavor.
Over time, different types of bitters emerged, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some bitters were made with specific botanicals, such as peach bitters or chocolate bitters, while others were made with a combination of ingredients, such as aromatic bitters or orange bitters.
Types of Bitters
There are several types of bitters available, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are some of the most common types of bitters:
- Aromatic bitters: These bitters are made with a combination of botanicals such as gentian, orange peel, and cassia bark. They have a strong, pungent flavor and are often used in Old Fashioneds and other classic cocktails.
- Orange bitters: These bitters are made with orange peel and have a bright, citrusy flavor. They are often used in cocktails that feature citrus flavors, such as the Martini and the Sidecar.
- Peach bitters: These bitters are made with peaches and have a sweet, fruity flavor. They are often used in cocktails that feature fruit flavors, such as the Bellini and the Spritz.
- Chocolate bitters: These bitters are made with cocoa and have a rich, chocolatey flavor. They are often used in cocktails that feature chocolate flavors, such as the Espresso Martini and the Chocolate Martini.
Other Types of Bitters
In addition to these common types of bitters, there are many other types available, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some examples include:
- Lemon bitters: These bitters are made with lemon peel and have a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Grapefruit bitters: These bitters are made with grapefruit peel and have a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
- Coffee bitters: These bitters are made with coffee and have a rich, coffee flavor.
- Smoked bitters: These bitters are made with smoked botanicals and have a smoky, savory flavor.
How to Choose the Right Bitters for Your Old Fashioned
With so many types of bitters available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your Old Fashioned. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right bitters:
- Consider the flavor profile of your Old Fashioned: If you’re using a bold, spicy bourbon, you may want to choose a bitters that complements those flavors, such as aromatic bitters. If you’re using a smoother, more mellow bourbon, you may want to choose a bitters that adds a bit of brightness and citrus flavor, such as orange bitters.
- Experiment with different types of bitters: Don’t be afraid to try different types of bitters in your Old Fashioned. You may be surprised at how a different type of bitters can change the flavor profile of your cocktail.
- Use a small amount of bitters: Bitters are a concentrated flavoring, so a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount of bitters, such as 2-3 dashes, and adjust to taste.
Popular Bitters Brands for Old Fashioneds
There are many great bitters brands available, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are a few popular bitters brands that are well-suited for Old Fashioneds:
- Angostura bitters: These bitters are made with a combination of botanicals such as gentian, orange peel, and cassia bark. They have a strong, pungent flavor and are often used in Old Fashioneds and other classic cocktails.
- Peychaud’s bitters: These bitters are made with a combination of botanicals such as gentian, orange peel, and anise. They have a slightly sweeter flavor than Angostura bitters and are often used in Old Fashioneds and other classic cocktails.
- Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6: These bitters are made with orange peel and have a bright, citrusy flavor. They are often used in cocktails that feature citrus flavors, such as the Martini and the Sidecar.
Other Great Bitters Brands
In addition to these popular bitters brands, there are many other great brands available, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some examples include:
- The Bitter Truth: This brand offers a range of bitters flavors, including aromatic bitters, orange bitters, and peach bitters.
- Fee Brothers: This brand offers a range of bitters flavors, including aromatic bitters, orange bitters, and mint bitters.
- Scrappy’s Bitters: This brand offers a range of bitters flavors, including aromatic bitters, orange bitters, and chocolate bitters.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bitters for your Old Fashioned can be a daunting task, but with a little experimentation and knowledge, you can create a truly unique and delicious cocktail. Remember to consider the flavor profile of your Old Fashioned, experiment with different types of bitters, and use a small amount of bitters to start. With these tips and a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Old Fashioned.
| Bitters Brand | Flavor Profile | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Angostura bitters | Strong, pungent flavor | Old Fashioneds, classic cocktails |
| Peychaud’s bitters | Slightly sweeter flavor | Old Fashioneds, classic cocktails |
| Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 | Bright, citrusy flavor | Cocktails with citrus flavors |
By following these tips and experimenting with different types of bitters, you’ll be able to create a truly unique and delicious Old Fashioned that showcases the complexity and depth of this classic cocktail.
What are bitters and how do they contribute to an Old Fashioned?
Bitters are a concentrated flavoring made from botanicals such as roots, barks, and citrus peels that have been infused in a neutral spirit. They add depth and complexity to an Old Fashioned, balancing the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the whiskey. A few dashes of bitters can elevate the drink from a simple mix of whiskey and sugar to a rich and nuanced cocktail.
The type and amount of bitters used can greatly impact the flavor profile of an Old Fashioned. Different bitters can add notes of citrus, spice, or herbal flavors, allowing the drinker to customize the flavor to their taste. When choosing bitters for an Old Fashioned, it’s essential to consider the type of whiskey being used, as well as the desired flavor profile.
What are the different types of bitters available?
There are several types of bitters available, each with its unique flavor profile. Aromatic bitters, such as Angostura and Peychaud’s, are the most commonly used in Old Fashioneds. They have a strong, pungent flavor with notes of spice, clove, and citrus. Orange bitters, on the other hand, have a citrusy flavor and are often used in conjunction with aromatic bitters. Other types of bitters, such as chocolate and peach, can add unique and interesting flavors to an Old Fashioned.
When selecting bitters, it’s essential to consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you prefer a traditional Old Fashioned flavor, aromatic bitters are a safe choice. If you want to add a bit of citrus or sweetness, orange or peach bitters might be a better option. Experimenting with different types of bitters can help you find the perfect flavor combination for your Old Fashioned.
How do I choose the right bitters for my Old Fashioned?
Choosing the right bitters for your Old Fashioned depends on several factors, including the type of whiskey being used, the desired flavor profile, and personal taste. If you’re using a robust, full-bodied whiskey, a stronger, more pungent bitters like Angostura might be a good choice. If you’re using a lighter, more delicate whiskey, a milder bitters like orange might be more suitable.
It’s also essential to consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you prefer a traditional Old Fashioned flavor, aromatic bitters are a safe choice. If you want to add a bit of citrus or sweetness, orange or peach bitters might be a better option. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bitters to find the perfect flavor combination for your Old Fashioned.
Can I make my own bitters at home?
Yes, you can make your own bitters at home. Making bitters involves infusing a neutral spirit with a combination of botanicals such as roots, barks, and citrus peels. The process can be time-consuming, but it allows you to customize the flavor to your taste. To make bitters at home, you’ll need a neutral spirit, a selection of botanicals, and a glass jar with a lid.
The process of making bitters involves combining the botanicals and spirit in a jar and allowing it to steep for several weeks. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor will be. Once the bitters have steeped, they can be strained and bottled. Homemade bitters can be a fun and rewarding project for cocktail enthusiasts, allowing you to create unique and customized flavors for your Old Fashioneds.
How do I store bitters to preserve their flavor?
Bitters should be stored in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor. Light and heat can cause the flavors to degrade, so it’s essential to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A cupboard or drawer is a good place to store bitters, as long as it’s not too humid or prone to temperature fluctuations.
It’s also essential to keep bitters tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination. A glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid is the best way to store bitters. If you’re not planning to use your bitters for an extended period, you can also store them in the refrigerator to slow down the degradation process.
Can I use bitters in other cocktails besides Old Fashioneds?
Yes, bitters can be used in a variety of cocktails beyond Old Fashioneds. Bitters can add depth and complexity to many different types of cocktails, from classics like the Manhattan and Martini to modern creations. Aromatic bitters, in particular, are versatile and can be used in a wide range of cocktails.
When using bitters in other cocktails, it’s essential to consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. A few dashes of bitters can greatly impact the flavor of a cocktail, so it’s essential to start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Experimenting with different types of bitters and cocktails can help you find new and interesting flavor combinations.