Angostura Bitters was created in the early 19th century by a German doctor, Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert, in Venezuela.
Bitters
Bitters (e.g., Angostura Style)
Bitters are highly concentrated, aromatic liquids infused with herbs, spices, and other botanicals. They are used primarily as flavoring agents in cocktails, with a few dashes adding complexity and depth to drinks.
Origin: Bitters have a long history, dating back to the 17th century, when they were first used as medicinal tonics. Angostura Bitters was created in the early 19th century by a German doctor, Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert, in Venezuela. The name “Angostura” refers to the town of Angostura (now Ciudad Bolívar), where it was first made.
Production: Bitters are made by infusing alcohol with various botanicals, such as bark, roots, fruits, seeds, and spices. The mixture is aged and then filtered before being bottled. Angostura-style bitters are known for their distinctive aromatic profile, with ingredients like gentian root, orange peel, cloves, and cardamom.
Flavor Profile: Bitters are extremely concentrated, with herbal, spicy, and bitter flavors. They can add complexity and balance to cocktails, with flavors ranging from earthy, woody, and floral to citrusy and bitter. A few dashes can dramatically change the taste of a drink.