Angostura and the Manhattan

Angostura bitters are the most ubiquitous cocktail bitters currently in existence. Found in nearly every bar, Angostura aromatic bitters is the most common and popular brand of aromatic cocktail bitters and one of the few brands that was been consistently available to bartenders in the United States before the start of the 21st century. First sold in 1824, its recipe remains a closely guarded secret purportedly known to only five people. The International Bartenders Association specifies the use of angostura bitters in no less than seven drinks on its list of official cocktails including such classics as the Manhattan, the Old Fashioned, and the Singapore Sling.

Cocktail bitters are used to add not only an extra layer of flavor but also (arguably more importantly) aroma to cocktails. They can be bought in nearly any flavor (and those flavors that might not be readily available for purchase could be created with a little creativity, time, and of course, high-proof grain alcohol). Adding cocktail bitters to a drink requires careful consideration of the both type and quantity used, since they make a huge difference in the effect on the drinker’s palate. You may expect to see many more posts about cocktail bitters in the future.

Angostura bitters are used to good effect in many classic cocktails and has been a favorite ingredient in our mixology experiments. It has a very pleasant, spicy and herbal aroma, a distinctive taste, and can be counted on to stand out even in fruity drinks. It is one of the few bitters that can be used in larger amounts (up to 1/8 oz in most cases) without overpowering the other flavors in the drink. As pleasant a flavor as it has, we do not recommend that you drink straight angostura bitters (or any bitters for that matter) as the flavor is very concentrated and very bitter on its own.

We have already presented two of our own cocktails that use Angostura bitters and you may find them in the “About Us” section of the blog, so for this post we will include another classic (which just wouldn't be the same without the bitters; go ahead and try it if you don't believe us). We hope you enjoy the following version of the Manhattan, a beloved before-dinner cocktail:

Manhattan

1 1/2 oz    Bulleit Rye
1/2    oz    Martini and Rossi Rosso
2 dashes  Angostura bitters

Stir ingredients with ice until cold and strain into a chilled cocktail coup. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Cheers!
A&B