Oregon is a mecca for lovers of adult beverages.  Beyond fabulous wine, we find craft beer, small batch distilled spirits, and would you believe even Oregon made cocktail bitters?

I was so excited I did a special spot on KGW Portland Today highlighting two brands of Oregon made cocktail bitters – The Bitter Housewife and Portland Bitters Project.  See the clip and keep reading for more info.

What Are Cocktail Bitters?

Bitters are one of the key flavor components of a traditional cocktail.  They add balance and a whole other layer of cool flavors.  Think of them like the spice rack for your cocktail bar.

But Seriously What ARE Bitters?

Very simple explanation with a complex array of explosive flavors.  Basically bitters are the result of steeping (or soaking) spices, fruit, and botanicals in a base alcohol – like vodka- until the alcohol soaks up the flavor, and then straining the solids out. There is some water dilution and some sugar to round out the bitter.

 

But think about all of the spices and botanicals that exist and then think about the different combinations of blends… Here is just an array of flavors from The Bitter Housewife and Portland Bitters Project.

Portland Bitters Project

~ Rose  ~ Woodland (made with Oregon Douglas Fir!) ~ Aromatic ~Cacao

The Bitter Housewife

~ Cardamom ~ Orange ~ Old Fashioned ~Grapefruit

Oregon Made Cocktail Bitters Make Me Want To Play

How about you?  First here are the links so you can learn about all the flavors and where to find them.

Links

The Bitter Housewife

Portland Bitters Project

 

Then here is ratio guide so while you experiment, your cocktail stay balanced.

We will share our experiments. Please share yours!!!