Angostura

Few ingredients hold as much significance in cocktail history as Angostura Bitters. First formulated in the early 19th century by Dr. Johann Siegert in Venezuela and later produced in Trinidad, this concentrated botanical elixir has become a defining component in bartending worldwide. From speakeasy classics to modern craft creations, a dash of Angostura elevates the balance, aroma, and flavor of nearly any drink.

Despite its name, Angostura doesn’t contain any of the angostura bark. Instead, it’s a proprietary blend of over 40 herbs and spices, aged in oak for complexity and bottled with its famously oversized label—unchanged for generations.

At The Bourbon Concierge, we feature Angostura as a pillar of any bar program—essential for mixing, baking, and seasoning cocktails with depth and nuance.

A Versatile Bar Essential

Angostura’s appeal lies in its versatility. It brings structure and a touch of bitterness to balance sweetness or brighten citrus. A little goes a long way, which is why even the smallest bottle can become a long-standing fixture in home bars and professional setups alike.

Tasting notes include:

• Aroma: Warm spices, clove, cinnamon, dark cherry, and citrus oil
• Palate: Bittersweet and herbal with a dry, spicy finish and long-lasting complexity

How to Use Angostura Bitters

Angostura is indispensable in dozens of classic cocktails and equally useful in creative modern recipes. Just a few dashes can transform a drink from good to great.

• Old Fashioned – Bourbon, sugar, Angostura, and orange peel—one of the purest expressions of balance in a cocktail.
• Manhattan – Adds depth and spice to the richness of rye and sweet vermouth.
• Daiquiri Variations – A couple of drops into a citrus-forward cocktail adds complexity without overpowering.
• Tiki & Tropicals – Enhances depth in rum-based drinks.
• Culinary Uses – Great for adding dimension to marinades, sauces, and even desserts.

A Global Icon in Every Bottle

Still family-owned and produced in Trinidad, Angostura Bitters has stood the test of time not just as a mixer, but as a flavor cornerstone. It’s often the smallest ingredient in a recipe—but almost always the one that brings it to life.

Whether you’re building a timeless cocktail or experimenting with something new, Angostura is the secret weapon behind the bar.