Orange Bitters

Welcome to our roundup of the best Orange Bitters on the market! You’ll find everything you need to know about these unique and versatile ingredients to elevate your cocktails to the next level. Whether you’re an experienced mixologist, a curious home chef, or simply looking for a new ingredient to try, we’ve got you covered with our top picks and helpful tips.

The Top 5 Best Orange Bitters

1. Dashfire Vintage Orange No. 1 Bitters: Authentic Flavor for Classic Cocktails - Experience the rich, bitter, and distinct orange taste of Dashfire Vintage Orange No. 1 Bitters, infused with real orange rind and aged in a Minnesota-made white oak barrel, perfect for creating classic and modern cocktails.

2. Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6: Versatile Citrus Bitter for Cocktails and Culinary Creations - Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6, a versatile and flavorful 5 fl oz bottle, transforms cocktails with its exquisite blend of orange, spices, and grain alcohol, delivering a bold and exotic taste to Dark and Clear spirits, liqueurs, and even vinaigrettes.

3. Scrappy’s Orange Cocktail Bitters: Handcrafted, Unique Flavor for Cocktails - A handcrafted, unique orange cocktail bitters blend that combines traditional flavors with a fresh twist, boasting a 52% alcohol by volume and available in a 5 fl oz glass bottle.

4. Premium Orange Bitters: Elevate Your Cocktails with Valencia and Navel Orange Flavors - Craft cocktails like a pro with Bittercube Orange Bitters - the versatile, zesty, and artisan-crafted addition to your home bar setup.

5. Handcrafted Los Angeles Bergamot Bitters for Clear Spirits - Introducing Miracle Mile Bergamot Bitters, the handcrafted 4 oz bottle, perfect for enhancing clear spirits like Gin, Vodka, or Pisco, and elevating your favorite Martini with its citrus punch.

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Reviews

Dashfire Vintage Orange No. 1 Bitters: Authentic Flavor for Classic Cocktails

For those who appreciate the rich history and distinctive flavor of orange bitters, the Dashfire Vintage Orange No. 1 Bitters is a must-try. Crafted with real orange rind, top-notch bourbon, and an exclusive blend of spices, these bitters are a revelation for whiskey, bourbon, and cognac cocktails.

The aged process in a Minnesota-made white oak barrel adds an undeniably unique flavor profile. While you can start with classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or bijou, the bitters’ versatility invites inventive concoctions. Overall, Dashfire’s vintage bitters bring the essence of 19th-century bars to your modern cocktail creations.

Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6: Versatile Citrus Bitter for Cocktails and Culinary Creations

Lasting for ages, I decided to give Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 a try in my bar. A 5 oz glass bottle with a dasher-style top is a great start to any cocktail set up, looking sleek and sophisticated on any bar.

The first thing I noticed was the depth of flavour this product brings to the table. It’s infused with pure grain alcohol, spices like cardamom, coriander, and orange oil, resulting in a pungent, exotic blend of flavor, making the cocktails I created taste bold and complex.

I used it to create my signature Old Fashioned, and it added a smoothness that balanced the whiskey beautifully. It also enhanced the citrus notes in gin cocktails, adding depth that perfectly complemented the botanicals.

What I appreciated the most about this product is how versatile it was. It elevated the flavors of my classic martinis and even made an exceptional addition to my orange sauce for duck.

The packaging is sturdy and the dasher top easy to use, perfect for a quick dash of flavor in your drink. However, I can’t help but feel like 5 oz might be too much for casual home use, as it lasts a long time.

In conclusion, the Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 is a splendid addition to any home bar - its depth of flavour and versatility are unparalleled. Though a bit more than the average bartender might require, once you’ve had a taste of what it can add to your cocktails, you’ll find it hard to go back. Plus, the fact that it lasts for ages is a huge bonus. So, for those who are serious about their cocktails, this is most definitely a worthwhile investment.

Scrappy’s Orange Cocktail Bitters: Handcrafted, Unique Flavor for Cocktails

I recently tried Keg Works Scrappy’s Orange Cocktail Bitters and it was a unique and refreshing experience. I loved how these bright and bitter citrus notes were infused with aromatic herbs and soothing spices, giving it a distinctive touch to my cocktails. Plus, the fact that it’s handcrafted in Seattle, just adds to its charm. But honestly, at 52% alcohol by volume, these weren’t just easy to use, they were powerful, making every sip count!

On the cons side, they do come in a high price range, which is a limiting factor for many. Nonetheless, if you are into high-quality bitters, this is definitely the way to go. It’s easy to justify the cost for such a unique product.

Premium Orange Bitters: Elevate Your Cocktails with Valencia and Navel Orange Flavors

As someone who’s a big fan of crafting delicious cocktails at home, I was over the moon to try the Bittercube Orange Bitters. This tiny bottle packs a punch, providing a well-balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for enhancing whiskey, gin, or even a simple Gimlet. The bright, bold orange aroma is absolutely delightful, but what sets these bitters apart is the hint of toasted coriander, caraway, and cardamom.

The burnt sugar note adds a subtle caramelized orange character, which I found to be a perfect companion to my Old Fashioned. I truly appreciate that Bittercube has stayed away from pre-made extracts or artificial ingredients, so every ounce of taste and flavor comes from their carefully crafted process.

If you’re looking to add that extra special dimension to your cocktails, these orange bitters are a must-have.

Handcrafted Los Angeles Bergamot Bitters for Clear Spirits

I’ve always been a fan of locally-made products, so when I came across the Miracle Mile Bergamot Bitters, I knew I had to give them a try. Small batch bitters handcrafted right in the heart of Los Angeles, this sour orange creation is perfect for adding depth and complexity to your clear spirits.

I decided to mix things up and try it in my favorite martini. The bitters worked wonders, creating a beautifully balanced and aromatic cocktail. However, I found that it took a little more finesse than usual when it came to measuring the doses. It’s a concentrated bitters, after all.

The 4 oz. bottle with a convenient dasher top makes it easy to store and use, but I do wish it came with a measurement guide. All in all, though, the Miracle Mile Bergamot Bitters 4 oz is a great addition to any cocktail enthusiast’s bar.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our Buyer’s Guide on Orange Bitters! This guide will provide you with essential information on choosing the right orange bitters for your personal or professional needs. We’ll cover important features, considerations, and general advice about this unique ingredient, without naming specific brands or external resources. Let’s dive right in!

Understanding Orange Bitters

Orange bitters are a unique blend of aromatic herbs, bittering agents, and, of course, orange peels. They have been used in cocktails and culinary applications for centuries to add depth, complexity, and unique flavors to dishes and drinks. The combination of bitter, spicy, and sweet notes in orange bitters can enhance many recipes, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.

Quality and Authenticity

When selecting orange bitters, look for a high-quality, authentic product. Authentic orange bitters contain a blend of natural ingredients, such as bittering agents like quinine, aromatic herbs, and real orange peels. Choose brands that source their ingredients sustainably and make their bitters in small batches for the best taste and quality.

Flavor Profiles

Orange bitters come in a variety of flavors and intensities, from more subtle and sweet to more bitter and spicy. Consider the flavor profile of your intended use when selecting orange bitters. For cocktails, a more balanced profile may be preferred, while in cooking, a bolder, more robust flavor may be desired. Be sure to read labels and customer reviews to get an idea of the specific flavor profile of each brand.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage and shelf life are essential to maintaining the quality of orange bitters. Store your bitters in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Most brands recommend storing orange bitters in a dark glass bottle to preserve its flavor and aroma. The typical shelf life of orange bitters is around two to three years from the date of manufacturing, so be sure to check the label for any information on storage and shelf life.

FAQ

What are Orange Bitters?

Orange bitters are a type of bitter, aromatic, and herbal liquor made from a blend of natural ingredients such as bitter orange peel, herbs, and spices. They were first introduced in the 19th century and have been used in various cocktails, food recipes, and digestive remedies ever since. The bitterness in orange bitters comes from the dried, bitter orange peel, which is the main ingredient in most brands.

Orange bitters are available in different forms, such as liquid, powder, or extracts. They can be purchased online or at specialty liquor stores. They are used not only to enhance the taste of cocktails but also as a natural supplement for digestive health due to their bitter taste, which stimulates the production of digestive enzymes.

What are some of the most popular brands of orange bitters?

Some of the most popular brands of orange bitters include Angostura, Fee Brothers, and Regans’ Orange Bitters. These brands have a long history of manufacturing high-quality orange bitters and are well-respected in the industry. Each brand offers its unique blend of ingredients, resulting in distinct flavors and aromas.

Angostura orange bitters, for instance, are known for their full-bodied flavor and strong aroma of bitter orange peel. Fee Brothers’ orange bitters offer a more subtle, fruity taste, making them suitable for a wide variety of cocktails. Regans’ Orange Bitters have a more complex flavor profile due to the addition of coriander and cinnamon, offering a unique twist to classic cocktails.

What are the differences between orange bitters and other types of bitters?

While orange bitters share some similarities with other types of bitters, such as Angostura bitters, they each have their unique characteristics. The primary difference between orange bitters and other types of bitters lies in their flavor profile and the ingredients they contain. Most orange bitters are made from bitter orange peel, which gives them a distinct fruity and citrusy taste with a hint of bitterness.

Angostura bitters, on the other hand, are made from a secret recipe of 20 botanicals, including dried bitter orange peel, gentian root, and aromatic seeds. They have a full-bodied flavor and a strong aroma, making them suitable for a wide variety of cocktails. Other types of bitters can include flavors such as chocolate, anise, or black pepper, depending on the specific brand. However, orange bitters are generally used to add a fruity and bright note to cocktails, making them a popular choice for mixologists.

How do I store orange bitters?

Proper storage of orange bitters is essential to maintain their quality and flavor. If unopened, orange bitters can be stored at room temperature or in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it is recommended to store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Some manufacturers recommend refrigeration, especially if the bottle is partially or fully consumed.

Additionally, it is essential to keep the bottle tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination from air or moisture. If you notice any changes in the appearance, taste, or aroma of the bitters, it is best not to use them, as they may have gone bad. Most orange bitters have a shelf life of around two years from the date of manufacturing, so it’s crucial to check the expiration date before use.

What are some popular cocktails that use orange bitters?

Orange bitters are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of cocktails to enhance their flavor, aroma, and complexity. Some popular cocktails that use orange bitters include the Old Fashioned, Negroni, Manhattan, and Sazerac. They also work well in cocktails that contain fruit juice or citrus flavors, such as the Bronx, Corpse Reviver #2, and Pegu Club.

When using orange bitters in cocktails, it’s essential to use them sparingly. A few drops are typically sufficient to add a subtle yet noticeable flavor. The bitters can be added directly to the cocktail shaker or stirred into the glass before the rest of the ingredients. It’s always a good idea to experiment with different brands and techniques to find the perfect balance for your preferred cocktails.

Can I use orange bitters for cooking or baking?

Yes, orange bitters can be used in cooking and baking as well. Their unique taste and aroma can add a depth of flavor to recipes that call for bitter or citrus notes. Some examples of dishes that can benefit from the addition of orange bitters include braised meats, sauces and dressings, and desserts such as cakes or cheesecakes.

When using orange bitters in cooking, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Remember that the bitters can be quite potent, so a little goes a long way. You can also try substituting orange bitters for other types of bitters, such as Angostura, in recipes that call for a bitter component. As with cocktails, experimenting is the key to finding the right balance and creating delicious dishes using orange bitters.

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