One of our secret weapons
Bitters are the unsung heroes of the cocktail world—small but mighty ingredients that bring depth, balance, and complexity to drinks. At STIR, we craft our own bitters to create unique flavor profiles, embrace sustainability, and experiment with creativity in mixology.
What Are Cocktail Bitters?
Bitters are concentrated infusions of botanicals, herbs, spices, and barks steeped in high-proof alcohol. Just a few dashes can transform a cocktail, adding layers of aroma and depth. While originally medicinal, they’re now a staple in classic drinks like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Sazerac.
Why Make Your Own Bitters?
While store-bought bitters are widely available, making your own allows you to tailor flavors, reduce waste, and avoid artificial additives. At STIR, we use house-made bitters to complement our cocktail menu and repurpose leftover ingredients like citrus peels and herbs.
How to Make Cocktail Bitters
The beauty of bitters lies in their versatility—you can make them out of almost anything! Here’s a simple formula:
Base: High-proof neutral alcohol (vodka, grain alcohol, or overproof rum)
Bitterness Agent: Gentian root, wormwood, or citrus peels
Aromatics: Spices, dried herbs, or flowers (e.g., clove, cardamom, lavender)
Sweetness (Optional): A touch of honey, maple syrup, or dried fruit
Infuse: Steep the ingredients in alcohol for 10-14 days, shaking daily.
Strain & Adjust: Strain, taste, and mix with a little water if needed.
Bottle & Rest: Let it sit for a few more days before use.
Tinctures: A Flexible Alternative
Tinctures are single-ingredient infusions made in high-proof alcohol, and they work as building blocks for bitters. By creating separate tinctures for different botanicals—like chamomile, black pepper, or cacao—you can mix and match to craft custom bitters on demand. This approach allows for greater precision and creativity while reducing waste.
STIR’s Approach to Bitters
We love experimenting with flavors—whether it’s bright citrus bitters for gin cocktails or smoky spice-infused bitters for bourbon. Our approach is about creativity and sustainability, using available ingredients to craft something unique. Tinctures allow us to fine-tune flavors, ensuring each cocktail gets just the right balance.
Elevate Your Cocktails
Making your own bitters and tinctures is an easy way to add complexity to your drinks. Mix and match ingredients, play with flavors, and create something truly your own. Once you start, you’ll never look at cocktail bitters the same way again!
