Best Bitters for Old Fashioned: Expert Picks and Flavor Notes
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The Old Fashioned has been a go-to cocktail for bourbon lovers since the early 1800s. This classic clinker is easy to make with a simple combination of bourbon, sugar, and bitters. In this guide, we take a look at the best bitters for Old Fashioned cocktails, why it matters, and how you can use it to add a bit of oomph to your mixed drinks at home.
What to look for in the best bitters
Flavor complexity and balance
Bitters are the magic touch that transforms an Old Fashioned from simple to extraordinary. It imparts layers of flavors, from spicy and herbal to citrusy and floral, complementing the subtle sweet elements of the drink. That’s why it’s important to think about how the bitters you choose will mingle with the bourbon you’re using.
For example, Angostura bitters add a robust, spicy kick, while orange bitters give a zesty brightness. The key is to find bitters that will balance and boost the overall flavor profile of your cocktail.
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Ingredients and quality
The ingredients in bitters can make or break your Old Fashioned. The best bitters are made with natural herbs, spices, roots, and botanicals, ensuring a purer and more nuanced flavor.
Avoid bitters with artificial flavors or additives. Instead, look for small-batch or artisanal bitters, which often feature higher-quality ingredients and traditional methods of production. These bitters not only taste better but also add a touch of authenticity to your cocktail. Remember: the better the ingredients, the better the drink.
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5 Top Bitters for Old Fashioned
1. Angostura Bitters
Tasting notes: Aromatic with hints of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.
Angostura Bitters is a classic choice for its warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of sugar and the richness of bourbon.
2. Orange bitters
Tasting notes: Bright, citrusy with a bitter orange peel finish.
Orange bitters add a refreshing zest that brightens the overall flavor of the Old Fashioned, especially if you’re using a slightly sweeter bourbon.
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3. Peychaud’s Bitters
Tasting notes: Anise and cherry forward with a sweet, floral undertone.
Peychaud’s Bitters brings a unique, slightly sweet spiciness that pairs well with the vanilla and caramel notes in bourbon.
4. Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters
Tasting notes: Rich chocolate with hints of coffee and vanilla.
Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters adds a decadent, dessert-like twist to your Old Fashioned, enhancing the cocktail with deep cocoa flavors that complement the sweetness and complexity of bourbon.
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5. Scrappy’s Cardamom Bitters
Tasting notes: Bold cardamom with a touch of citrus and mint.
Scrappy’s Cardamom Bitters adds an exotic, spicy note giving more depth and a touch of intrigue to a traditional Old Fashioned.
Old Fashioned variations to try
The Old Fashioned is a highly adaptable cocktail recipe that can be tailored and tweaked to suit a variety of taste preferences. Here are a few of our favorite spin-offs to try at home:
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Expert insights
Still curious? We’ve got you sorted! Let’s dive deeper into the history of bitters, which boasts a remarkable 9000-year history. It originated in China around 7000 BCE as a rice wine infused with artemisia and botanicals. This traditional blend journeyed through the Silk Road, influencing Western practices. By Roman times, ‘vinum gustaticium’ had become a ritual appetizer, evolving into a honey-sweetened wine infused with spices. Check out the video below for more info.
WATCH: The history of bitters and aperitivo
How to use bitters in an Old Fashioned
Proper amount & technique for adding bitters
For a classic Old Fashioned, start with 2-3 dashes of bitters. The bitters should be added directly to the glass with the sugar cube (or simple syrup) and a splash of water. Muddle these ingredients together to dissolve the sugar. Doing this will give your Old Fashioned a balanced flavor This will ensure that the bitters are properly mixed into the drink, providing a balanced flavor.
Experimenting with different bitters
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different bitters to achieve a perfect Old Fashioned cocktail. Combine orange bitters with aromatic bitters for a citrusy-spicy combo or use a dash of chocolate bitters with classic aromatic bitters for a richer, dessert-like twist. The key is to start with small amounts and adjust to taste, allowing you to create a cocktail that’s uniquely yours.
In short, when it comes to making the perfect Old Fashioned, the choice of bitters plays a crucial role in shaping the cocktail’s flavor profile. Experiment with different bitters and bourbon pairings to find the combination that best suits your taste. The beauty of mixology is in the exploration, so don’t hesitate to try out various options and discover your personal favorite. Tag us on Instagram to share your sips and sign up for our newsletter to receive more inspiration monthly.
