The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, known for its simplicity and timeless appeal. Made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, this classic drink highlights the importance of balance in mixology. While whiskey provides the foundation and sugar adds a touch of sweetness, it’s the bitters that bring depth, complexity, and a subtle spice that elevates the entire experience.
Bitters act as the seasoning of a cocktail, much like salt and pepper in cooking. They add layers of flavor, enhance the whiskey’s natural characteristics, and round out the drink’s sweetness with a hint of bitterness and aromatic notes. Choosing the right bitters can make all the difference in crafting a perfect Old Fashioned, whether you prefer a traditional approach or an experimental twist.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of bitters available, how they impact the flavor of an Old Fashioned, and how to choose the best one based on your personal taste and whiskey preference. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or a home bartender looking to refine your craft, understanding bitters is the key to mastering this classic drink.
Understanding Bitters: What They Are and How They Work
1. What Are Bitters?
Bitters are the secret weapon of the cocktail world—small but mighty flavor enhancers that can transform a drink with just a few drops. At their core, bitters are highly concentrated infusions of botanicals, including herbs, roots, bark, spices, and fruit peels, all steeped in a high-proof alcohol base. This results in a potent liquid packed with complex flavors, ranging from warm and spicy to bright and citrusy.
Though they may seem like a minor ingredient, bitters play a crucial role in cocktail-making. Historically, they were first used for medicinal purposes, dating back to the early 19th century when they were believed to aid digestion. Over time, bartenders realized their potential in mixology, and bitters became a defining element of classic cocktails—none more so than the Old Fashioned.
2. How Bitters Enhance Flavor and Balance in Cocktails
A well-made cocktail is all about balance, and bitters act as the glue that brings all the ingredients together. In an Old Fashioned, where the base ingredients are minimal—whiskey, sugar, and water—the addition of bitters prevents the drink from becoming one-dimensional. Here’s how bitters contribute to the perfect Old Fashioned:
- Adding Depth and Complexity
Whiskey has natural notes of caramel, vanilla, spice, and oak, but without bitters, it can feel overly sweet or flat. Bitters introduce layers of flavor that enhance and complement the whiskey’s profile, making the drink more intriguing and satisfying. - Balancing Sweetness and Alcohol
An Old Fashioned contains sugar, which can sometimes overpower the drink if not carefully measured. Bitters counteract this sweetness with their sharp, herbal, and sometimes spicy notes, keeping the cocktail from becoming cloying. - Aromatic Enhancement
Taste and smell are deeply connected, and bitters contribute significantly to a cocktail’s aroma. The herbal and spice notes from bitters create a more dynamic drinking experience, engaging the senses before you even take a sip. - Elevating the Finish
A great Old Fashioned lingers on the palate, leaving behind a lasting impression. Bitters help extend the finish of the drink, allowing the flavors to unfold gradually rather than disappearing too quickly.
In essence, bitters are the ingredient that transforms an Old Fashioned from a simple whiskey drink into a well-rounded, expertly crafted cocktail. The right bitters can highlight different aspects of your whiskey, whether you want to amplify its spice, bring out citrusy undertones, or introduce a hint of chocolate or smoke.
Next, we’ll explore the classic and alternative bitters you can use to craft your ideal Old Fashioned, from traditional Angostura to more adventurous flavors.
Classic Bitters for a Traditional Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a cocktail built on tradition, and when it comes to bitters, there are two timeless choices: Angostura and Peychaud’s. These bitters have been staples in the cocktail world for well over a century, each bringing its own distinct character to the drink. Whether you’re crafting a classic Old Fashioned or experimenting with subtle variations, these bitters provide a strong foundation for a well-balanced, flavorful cocktail.
1. Angostura Bitters: The Gold Standard
If there’s one bitters brand that reigns supreme in the world of Old Fashioneds, it’s Angostura Bitters. Recognizable by its oversized paper-wrapped bottle, Angostura has been the go-to bitters for bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike since the early 1800s. Originally developed as a medicinal tonic, it quickly found its way into classic cocktails, and today, it’s nearly synonymous with the Old Fashioned itself.
Flavor Profile:
- Deeply aromatic with notes of warm baking spices, clove, cinnamon, and allspice
- Slightly woody and earthy undertones
- A gentle bitterness that balances sweetness without overpowering
2. Why It Works in an Old Fashioned:
Angostura’s rich, spice-driven profile perfectly complements the caramel, vanilla, and oak notes found in bourbon and rye whiskey. Just a few dashes are enough to add depth and complexity, preventing the drink from feeling too sweet or one-dimensional. The result is a well-rounded, slightly spicy Old Fashioned that embodies the classic style.
Best For:
- Traditionalists who love a classic Old Fashioned
- Bourbon or rye-based Old Fashioneds
- Those who prefer a warm, spiced flavor profile
3. Peychaud’s Bitters: A Lighter, Floral Alternative
While Angostura is the most widely used, Peychaud’s Bitters offers a compelling alternative for those looking to add a different dimension to their Old Fashioned. Originally created in the 1830s by Antoine Amédée Peychaud, a Creole apothecary in New Orleans, Peychaud’s has a brighter, more floral character compared to the deep spice of Angostura.
Flavor Profile:
- Lighter and slightly sweeter than Angostura
- Prominent notes of anise, cherry, and floral undertones
- A subtle peppery bite with mild bitterness
Why It Works in an Old Fashioned:
Peychaud’s bitters bring a unique balance of sweetness and spice that works particularly well with rye whiskey. Its hints of cherry and anise create a slightly fruitier, more aromatic Old Fashioned, making it an excellent choice for those who want to step outside the traditional profile while still staying true to the cocktail’s roots.
Best For:
- Rye whiskey-based Old Fashioneds (enhances the peppery spice of rye)
- Drinkers who enjoy a lighter, slightly sweeter take on the classic
- Those looking to experiment with a subtle floral twist
Exploring Alternative Bitters for Unique Twists
While the classic Old Fashioned relies on traditional bitters like Angostura and Peychaud’s, there’s an entire world of alternative bitters that can add exciting new dimensions to the drink. Whether you’re looking to introduce citrusy brightness, rich depth, or a complex herbal twist, the right bitters can elevate your Old Fashioned from familiar to extraordinary. Here’s a look at some of the best alternative bitters to experiment with.
1. Orange Bitters: A Citrusy Enhancement
If you want to brighten up your Old Fashioned with a fresh, vibrant twist, orange bitters are a perfect choice. Unlike traditional aromatic bitters, which lean heavily on warm spice notes, orange bitters bring a zesty, slightly bitter citrus kick that pairs beautifully with whiskey’s caramel and vanilla undertones.
Flavor Profile:
- Bright, zesty orange peel with a slight bitterness
- Subtle spice notes from coriander, cardamom, and anise
- A well-balanced mix of sweet and bitter citrus
Why It Works in an Old Fashioned:
Orange bitters add a layer of freshness to the drink, cutting through the richness of bourbon while enhancing the natural citrus oils from the orange garnish. They work particularly well with sweeter bourbons, balancing out their vanilla and caramel notes, and can also complement the spiciness of rye whiskey.
Best For:
- Drinkers who enjoy a slightly lighter, more refreshing Old Fashioned
- Pairing with wheated bourbons or spicy rye whiskies
- Enhancing the citrus notes from an orange peel garnish
2. Chocolate and Coffee Bitters: Rich and Deep Flavors
For a more decadent take on the Old Fashioned, chocolate or coffee bitters can introduce deep, roasted flavors that enhance the whiskey’s inherent richness. These bitters bring out dark cocoa, espresso, and toasty caramel notes, making for a luxurious sipping experience.
Flavor Profile:
- Deep roasted coffee and dark chocolate notes
- Hints of vanilla, caramel, and subtle smokiness
- A mild bitterness that balances the sweetness of whiskey
Why It Works in an Old Fashioned:
Both chocolate and coffee bitters create a richer, more indulgent Old Fashioned. They pair exceptionally well with bold, full-bodied bourbons, especially those with strong caramel and oak characteristics. These bitters can also enhance the flavors of a barrel-aged Old Fashioned, amplifying the whiskey’s natural depth.
Best For:
- Bourbon lovers who enjoy deep, toasty flavors
- Pairing with high-proof or heavily oaked whiskeys
- Crafting a dessert-inspired Old Fashioned
3. Spiced and Herbal Bitters: Adding Complexity
For those looking to explore more adventurous variations of the Old Fashioned, spiced and herbal bitters can introduce bold new layers of complexity. These bitters often incorporate ingredients like cinnamon, clove, cardamom, rosemary, or even lavender, creating an entirely different drinking experience.
Flavor Profile:
- Warm spice notes like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove
- Herbal elements such as rosemary, thyme, and anise
- A layered, aromatic bitterness that adds depth
Why It Works in an Old Fashioned:
Spiced and herbal bitters can dramatically change the flavor profile of an Old Fashioned, giving it a seasonal or thematic twist. For example, cinnamon and clove bitters create a cozy, wintery Old Fashioned, while lavender or rosemary bitters give a light, botanical touch perfect for warmer months.
Best For:
- Seasonal variations (winter spice, summer herbal twists)
- Pairing with whiskey that has strong oak and spice notes
- Creating a more aromatic and layered drinking experience
How Different Bitters Affect the Taste of an Old Fashioned
Bitters may be used in small amounts, but they have a huge impact on the overall taste of an Old Fashioned. Each type of bitters brings its own unique set of flavors that can highlight or balance different characteristics in whiskey. Understanding how bitters interact with the spirit is key to crafting an Old Fashioned that suits your personal taste.
1. Comparison of Flavor Profiles
Here’s a breakdown of how different types of bitters influence the flavor of an Old Fashioned:
- Aromatic Bitters (e.g., Angostura, The Bitter Truth Aromatic)
- Flavor Profile: Rich baking spices (cinnamon, clove, allspice), earthy depth, slight bitterness
- Effect on Old Fashioned: Adds warmth and complexity, rounds out sweetness, deepens whiskey’s natural spice
- Best With: Bourbon (for added depth), Rye (to complement spice)
- Orange Bitters (e.g., Regan’s, Fee Brothers, Angostura Orange)
- Flavor Profile: Bright citrus zest, mild bitterness, hints of coriander and spice
- Effect on Old Fashioned: Enhances whiskey’s natural vanilla and caramel notes, adds a refreshing twist
- Best With: Sweeter bourbons (to balance richness), Rye (to amplify citrus notes)
- Chocolate or Coffee Bitters (e.g., Bittermens Xocolatl Mole, Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate, Hella Coffee Bitters)
- Flavor Profile: Deep cocoa, roasted espresso, mild bitterness, caramel undertones
- Effect on Old Fashioned: Adds richness and depth, enhances the whiskey’s toasty oak notes
- Best With: Bold, high-proof bourbons; heavily oaked whiskeys
- Spiced Bitters (e.g., Cardamom, Clove, Cinnamon, Ginger Bitters)
- Flavor Profile: Warming spices, sometimes with a touch of heat or herbal complexity
- Effect on Old Fashioned: Creates a seasonal, cozy variation, intensifies whiskey’s spice notes
- Best With: Bourbon (for a wintery twist), Rye (to enhance peppery bite)
- Herbal Bitters (e.g., Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme, Chamomile Bitters)
- Flavor Profile: Fresh, floral, and earthy, with an herbal complexity
- Effect on Old Fashioned: Adds a botanical, slightly bitter edge, making the drink feel lighter and more aromatic
- Best With: Lighter bourbons and wheated whiskeys
2. How to Choose Bitters Based on Whiskey Type
The type of whiskey you use in your Old Fashioned should guide your choice of bitters. Here’s a simple guide to help you pair them effectively:
Bourbon-Based Old Fashioned
- Best Bitters: Aromatic, Orange, Chocolate, Spiced
- Why? Bourbon is naturally sweeter, with notes of caramel and vanilla. Aromatic bitters provide balance, while orange bitters add a fresh lift. Chocolate or spiced bitters can create a deeper, more indulgent drink.
Rye Whiskey-Based Old Fashioned
- Best Bitters: Aromatic, Orange, Herbal, Spiced
- Why? Rye is spicier and drier than bourbon, so bitters should either complement that spice (aromatic, spiced) or soften it with floral or citrus notes (herbal, orange).
High-Proof or Barrel-Aged Whiskey
- Best Bitters: Chocolate, Coffee, Spiced, Aromatic
- Why? Higher-proof whiskey has bolder flavors that can stand up to deeper, richer bitters like chocolate and coffee. Spiced bitters enhance oak and caramel notes.
Lighter Wheated Whiskeys
- Best Bitters: Orange, Herbal, Floral
- Why? Wheated whiskey is softer and smoother than rye or traditional bourbons. Orange bitters add brightness, and herbal bitters bring out a subtle, botanical complexity.
Crafting Your Own Signature Old Fashioned with Custom Bitters
The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that thrives on personalization. While traditional recipes rely on a single type of bitters, blending different bitters or even making your own can create a completely unique flavor profile that reflects your taste. Whether you’re looking for a spiced winter warmer, a citrusy summer sipper, or a bold, smoky twist, custom bitters allow you to tailor your Old Fashioned to perfection.
1. Blending Bitters for a Unique Flavor
Just like blending different whiskeys can create a more complex spirit, combining multiple bitters can result in a more layered and balanced Old Fashioned. The trick is to mix bitters with complementary or contrasting flavor notes to enhance different aspects of your whiskey.
Classic Blends to Try:
- Citrus & Spice: Orange Bitters + Aromatic Bitters
- Brightens the drink while maintaining depth and warmth
- Best for: Bourbon-based Old Fashioneds
- Sweet & Bitter Balance: Chocolate Bitters + Orange Bitters
- Chocolate adds richness, orange lifts the flavors
- Best for: High-proof bourbon or rye
- Bold & Complex: Aromatic Bitters + Coffee Bitters + Spiced Bitters
- Creates a deep, lingering, spice-forward drink
- Best for: Barrel-aged whiskeys
- Floral & Herbal Elegance: Lavender Bitters + Thyme Bitters
- Adds a light, botanical freshness
- Best for: Wheated bourbons or lighter whiskeys
Tips for Blending Bitters:
- Start with one dash of each bitters—too much can overpower the drink.
- Pair one dominant bitters (aromatic, orange) with a supporting bitters (chocolate, herbal, coffee).
- Adjust based on taste—more citrus bitters for freshness, more spice for depth.
- Keep a small notebook of your favorite blends so you can recreate them later.
2. Experimenting with Homemade Bitters
If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own bitters allows for total control over flavors and an opportunity to craft a completely personalized Old Fashioned. Homemade bitters require time and patience, but the result is a one-of-a-kind ingredient that elevates your cocktail game.
How to Make Your Own Bitters
Basic Ingredients:
- High-proof alcohol (Everclear, vodka, or overproof whiskey) – the base for extracting flavors.
- Bittering agents (choose 1–2): Gentian root, wormwood, dandelion root, or cinchona bark.
- Flavoring ingredients (choose a mix): Citrus peels, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla beans, coffee beans, cacao nibs, dried fruit, rosemary, lavender, or black pepper.
- Sweetener (optional): A touch of honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup (added after straining).
Basic Method:
- Combine alcohol and bittering agents in a glass jar. Let steep for 5–7 days, shaking daily.
- Add flavoring ingredients and continue steeping for another 7–10 days.
- Strain the liquid and taste—adjust as needed with additional spices or sweetness.
- Store in a dropper bottle and label your custom bitters blend.
Custom Bitters Ideas:
- Smoky & Rich: Charred oak chips + cacao nibs + coffee beans
- Warm & Spiced: Cinnamon + clove + nutmeg + vanilla bean
- Citrus & Floral: Grapefruit peel + lavender + chamomile
- Savory & Herbal: Rosemary + thyme + black pepper
The Impact of Quality and Brand on Bitters Selection
Not all bitters are created equal. While the core ingredients—bittering agents, botanicals, and alcohol—remain the same, the quality, complexity, and intensity of flavors can vary dramatically depending on the brand. Some bitters are crafted for consistency and mass appeal, while others focus on artisanal, small-batch production with unique and bold flavors. Understanding these differences helps you choose the best bitters for your Old Fashioned.
1. Notable Brands and Their Characteristics
Certain bitters brands have become industry staples, while others offer innovative variations that allow for creative cocktail experimentation. Here’s a look at some of the most respected names in bitters and what makes them unique:
Classic, Time-Tested Brands
- Angostura Bitters (The Gold Standard)
- Flavor Profile: Deeply spiced with cinnamon, clove, and allspice; slightly bitter but well-balanced.
- Why It’s Popular: The most widely used bitters in Old Fashioneds—iconic, reliable, and widely available.
- Best For: Traditional Old Fashioneds with bourbon or rye.
- Peychaud’s Bitters (A Lighter, Floral Alternative)
- Flavor Profile: Bright anise, cherry, and floral notes; slightly sweeter than Angostura.
- Why It’s Popular: A key ingredient in New Orleans cocktails (like the Sazerac), it brings a unique twist to an Old Fashioned.
- Best For: Sweeter, more delicate variations of the drink.
- Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 (The Citrus Favorite)
- Flavor Profile: Rich orange zest, mild bitterness, hints of cardamom and coriander.
- Why It’s Popular: One of the best orange bitters on the market, known for its balance of sweet and bitter citrus.
- Best For: Bright, refreshing Old Fashioneds with lighter bourbons or wheated whiskeys.
Small-Batch and Artisanal Brands
- Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters (For a Chocolatey, Spiced Kick)
- Flavor Profile: Rich cacao, cinnamon, and spice with a mild bitterness.
- Why It’s Popular: Adds depth and warmth, making an Old Fashioned feel more indulgent.
- Best For: Bourbon-based Old Fashioneds, especially with high-proof whiskey.
- Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters (A Nutty, Earthy Option)
- Flavor Profile: Deep, toasted walnut with hints of vanilla and spice.
- Why It’s Popular: Unique and full-bodied, great for creating a richer, more layered drink.
- Best For: Complex, autumn-inspired Old Fashioneds.
- The Bitter Truth Jerry Thomas’ Own Decanter Bitters (A Tribute to a Cocktail Legend)
- Flavor Profile: A mix of warm spices, dried fruit, and bitter herbs.
- Why It’s Popular: Named after legendary bartender Jerry Thomas, this bitters blend is intensely aromatic and complex.
- Best For: A more vintage-style Old Fashioned with layers of complexity.
- Hella Aromatic Bitters (A Modern Take on Tradition)
- Flavor Profile: A spiced yet slightly floral profile with a good balance of bitter and sweet.
- Why It’s Popular: A great alternative to Angostura, offering a smoother and slightly more nuanced flavor.
- Best For: A well-balanced, modern Old Fashioned.
2. Differences Between Mass-Market and Artisanal Bitters
When selecting bitters, one of the biggest decisions is whether to go with a widely available mass-market brand or explore the world of artisanal, small-batch options. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Mass-Market Bitters (e.g., Angostura, Peychaud’s) | Artisanal Bitters (e.g., Bittermens, The Bitter Truth) |
| Availability | Easily found in liquor stores and supermarkets | Often requires specialty shops or online orders |
| Consistency | Reliable, time-tested recipes with little variation | Small-batch variations may lead to slight differences in taste |
| Complexity | Simple, balanced flavors that work in most cocktails | More unique ingredients, resulting in bold or unexpected flavors |
| Price | Generally affordable ($10–$15 per bottle) | Higher cost due to handcrafted production ($20–$30 per bottle) |
| Best For | Classic Old Fashioneds, traditional cocktails | Experimentation, unique twists on the Old Fashioned |
When to Choose Mass-Market Bitters:
- If you want a classic Old Fashioned with a tried-and-true flavor.
- If you’re new to bitters and want an easy, reliable choice.
- If you need something widely available and budget-friendly.
When to Choose Artisanal Bitters:
- If you love experimenting and want a more distinctive, layered drink.
- If you prefer small-batch, handcrafted ingredients.
- If you’re creating a seasonal or customized Old Fashioned with specific flavor themes.
The Impact of Quality and Brand on Bitters Selection
Bitters might be a small ingredient in an Old Fashioned, but they play a crucial role in defining the cocktail’s flavor profile. The brand and quality of bitters you choose can significantly influence the balance of sweetness, bitterness, and complexity in your drink. Some brands offer time-tested classics, while others push the boundaries with unique, handcrafted flavors. Understanding these differences helps you select the right bitters for your preferred Old Fashioned style.
1. Notable Brands and Their Characteristics
Several bitters brands have established themselves as essential staples in the cocktail world, while others focus on crafting artisanal, small-batch options that introduce new and exciting flavors. Below are some of the most respected names in bitters and what sets them apart.
Classic and Widely Used Bitters
- Angostura Bitters – The Benchmark for Old Fashioneds
- Flavor Profile: Deeply spiced with notes of cinnamon, clove, and allspice.
- Why It’s Popular: The most widely used bitters in the world; known for its versatility and consistency.
- Best For: A traditional Old Fashioned with bourbon or rye.
- Peychaud’s Bitters – A Lighter, More Floral Alternative
- Flavor Profile: Bright and slightly sweet with hints of anise, cherry, and floral undertones.
- Why It’s Popular: Famous for its role in the Sazerac, but it offers a smoother, less bitter alternative for an Old Fashioned.
- Best For: A lighter, slightly sweeter Old Fashioned.
- Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 – For a Citrus Kick
- Flavor Profile: Strong orange zest with mild bitterness and warm spice.
- Why It’s Popular: Created by cocktail expert Gary Regan, this bitters provides a balanced mix of citrus and spice.
- Best For: Old Fashioneds that need a bright citrus edge.
Small-Batch and Artisanal Bitters
- Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters – A Rich, Chocolatey Depth
- Flavor Profile: Earthy cacao, cinnamon, and subtle chili spice.
- Why It’s Popular: Adds a deep, rich layer to whiskey cocktails.
- Best For: A bold, dessert-like Old Fashioned.
- Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters – A Nutty and Earthy Option
- Flavor Profile: Roasted walnut, vanilla, and hints of coffee.
- Why It’s Popular: Offers a smooth, nutty undertone perfect for aged spirits.
- Best For: A warm, autumnal Old Fashioned.
- The Bitter Truth Aromatic Bitters – A Spicier, More Herbal Alternative to Angostura
- Flavor Profile: A mix of dried fruit, spice, and bitter herbs.
- Why It’s Popular: Provides a more pronounced, herbal complexity.
- Best For: A spicier twist on the classic Old Fashioned.
- Scrappy’s Cardamom Bitters – A Unique and Exotic Touch
- Flavor Profile: Warm cardamom spice with subtle citrus notes.
- Why It’s Popular: Adds a distinct, aromatic quality without overwhelming the drink.
- Best For: An Old Fashioned with Middle Eastern or exotic spice influences.
2. Differences Between Mass-Market and Artisanal Bitters
The choice between mass-market and artisanal bitters ultimately comes down to personal preference, availability, and the level of experimentation you’re comfortable with. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Mass-Market Bitters (e.g., Angostura, Peychaud’s) | Artisanal Bitters (e.g., Bittermens, Scrappy’s) |
| Availability | Easy to find in liquor stores, supermarkets, and bars | Often requires specialty shops or online orders |
| Consistency | Reliable, tested, and widely used in classic recipes | Small-batch variations may lead to slight differences in taste |
| Flavor Complexity | Balanced and straightforward flavors | Unique and more experimental ingredient combinations |
| Price | Affordable ($10–$15 per bottle) | Higher cost due to small-batch production ($20–$30 per bottle) |
| Best For | Traditional Old Fashioneds, everyday home bartending | Experimentation, signature drinks, and unique twists |
When to Choose Mass-Market Bitters:
- You want a classic Old Fashioned with a consistent, well-balanced flavor.
- You’re new to bitters and want a reliable, versatile option.
- You need something widely available and cost-effective.
When to Choose Artisanal Bitters:
- You enjoy experimenting and want to create a more personalized drink.
- You appreciate handcrafted, small-batch ingredients.
- You’re making a seasonal or unique twist on an Old Fashioned.
Bitters Pairing: Matching Bitters with Whiskey Varieties
Bitters and whiskey have a symbiotic relationship in an Old Fashioned—each enhances the other, creating a well-balanced, complex cocktail. But not all whiskeys are the same. The type of whiskey you use, whether it’s a bold rye or a smooth bourbon, should guide your choice of bitters. Selecting the right pairing can highlight the best qualities of both while creating a more refined drinking experience.
1. Rye vs. Bourbon Considerations
The two most common whiskey choices for an Old Fashioned are rye whiskey and bourbon. While both create a fantastic cocktail, they have distinct flavor profiles that can be complemented or enhanced by different bitters.
Rye Whiskey in an Old Fashioned
- Flavor Profile: Spicy, dry, and robust, with peppery and herbal notes.
- Bitters Pairing Strategy: Since rye whiskey is naturally bold and spicy, bitters should either enhance its sharpness or balance it with sweetness.
Best Bitters for Rye Whiskey:
- Angostura Aromatic Bitters – Classic and versatile, these bitters bring out the spice and woodiness in rye.
- Peychaud’s Bitters – Its floral and anise notes add a touch of brightness without overpowering the whiskey’s spice.
- Orange Bitters (Regan’s or Fee Brothers) – A citrusy edge that lifts the rye’s intensity while maintaining its dry character.
- Black Walnut Bitters (Fee Brothers) – Adds a deep, earthy complexity that complements rye’s grain-forward taste.
Best For: A bold, punchy Old Fashioned with a strong whiskey backbone.
Bourbon in an Old Fashioned
- Flavor Profile: Sweeter, richer, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
- Bitters Pairing Strategy: Since bourbon has a natural sweetness, bitters should either enhance that richness or add complexity to prevent it from becoming too syrupy.
Best Bitters for Bourbon Whiskey:
- Angostura Aromatic Bitters – A classic choice that deepens bourbon’s caramel and spice notes.
- Chocolate Mole Bitters (Bittermens Xocolatl Mole) – Adds depth with cocoa and spice, making a bourbon Old Fashioned taste even richer.
- Cherry Bitters (Fee Brothers or Woodford Reserve) – Highlights bourbon’s natural sweetness with fruity undertones.
- Spiced or Cardamom Bitters (Scrappy’s Cardamom) – Brings a warming spice to contrast bourbon’s vanilla and toffee flavors.
Best For: A smooth, well-rounded Old Fashioned with layers of sweetness and spice.
2. How the Whiskey’s Profile Influences the Best Bitters Choice
Choosing the right bitters isn’t just about the whiskey’s type—it’s also about its specific flavor profile. Different bourbons and ryes have unique characteristics, and the right bitters can enhance or counterbalance those flavors.
| Whiskey Characteristic | Recommended Bitters | Effect on the Old Fashioned |
| High-proof, bold whiskey | Angostura, Mole, Walnut | Balances intensity with deep, rich flavors |
| Sweet, caramel-heavy bourbon | Orange, Spiced, Cherry | Adds brightness and prevents the cocktail from being too syrupy |
| Dry, peppery rye whiskey | Peychaud’s, Aromatic, Black Walnut | Enhances complexity while maintaining sharpness |
| Smoky or heavily oaked whiskey | Mole, Black Walnut, Cherry | Deepens flavors and adds contrast |
| Soft, wheated bourbon | Cardamom, Orange, Floral | Introduces complexity and subtle spice |
Using Multiple Bitters: Layering Flavors for a Complex Cocktail
One of the easiest ways to elevate an Old Fashioned from classic to extraordinary is by using multiple bitters in combination. While a single type of bitters provides a consistent flavor profile, blending aromatic, citrus, and spiced bitters introduces depth, complexity, and a more nuanced drinking experience.
By carefully layering different bitters, you can highlight specific whiskey notes, add intrigue, or create a more balanced cocktail. The key is understanding how these bitters interact and ensuring harmony between the ingredients.
1. Mixing Aromatic, Citrus, and Spiced Bitters
Different bitters serve different purposes, and combining them strategically can bring out the best in your whiskey and sweetener. Here’s how each category contributes to the drink:
1. Aromatic Bitters: The Backbone of the Cocktail
Aromatic bitters form the foundation of a traditional Old Fashioned. These bitters are usually spiced, herbal, and slightly bitter, grounding the cocktail with complexity.
Best Aromatic Bitters to Use:
- Angostura Bitters – Classic, with notes of clove, cinnamon, and dried fruit.
- The Bitter Truth Aromatic Bitters – A spicier, bolder alternative to Angostura.
- Peychaud’s Bitters – Lighter and slightly sweeter, with hints of anise.
Pair With: Citrus or chocolate bitters to create contrast and depth.
2. Citrus Bitters: Brightness and Lift
Citrus bitters add zest and freshness, cutting through the richness of whiskey and complementing both spicy rye and sweet bourbon. These bitters are especially useful for balancing caramel-heavy or oaky whiskeys.
Best Citrus Bitters to Use:
- Orange Bitters (Regan’s No. 6 or Fee Brothers) – Adds a bright, slightly bitter orange essence.
- Grapefruit Bitters – A sharper, more bitter citrus flavor that works well with high-proof bourbons.
- Lemon Bitters – A delicate alternative that enhances lighter, floral whiskey notes.
Pair With: Aromatic or spiced bitters to add contrast and prevent excessive sweetness.
3. Spiced & Specialty Bitters: Depth and Intrigue
Spiced bitters enhance warmth and richness, making them perfect for whiskey-forward cocktails. They can add anything from earthy nuttiness to exotic cardamom spice, transforming an Old Fashioned into a more layered and intriguing drink.
Best Spiced & Specialty Bitters to Use:
- Chocolate Bitters (Bittermens Xocolatl Mole) – Adds a deep, cocoa-like richness, perfect for bourbon-based Old Fashioneds.
- Black Walnut Bitters (Fee Brothers) – Provides an earthy, nutty depth that pairs beautifully with aged whiskey.
- Cardamom Bitters (Scrappy’s) – Introduces a warming spice that complements both rye and bourbon.
- Cinnamon Bitters – Enhances the natural spice in whiskey, making for a cozy, wintery variation.
Pair With: Aromatic bitters for structure, citrus bitters for balance.
2. Tips for Achieving Balance When Mixing Bitters
Blending bitters is an art, and while there are no hard rules, a few guiding principles will help you create a cocktail that’s well-balanced and flavorful.
1. Stick to a Two-to-One Ratio
When mixing bitters, a good rule of thumb is to use two dashes of your primary bitters (usually aromatic) and one dash of a complementary bitters (citrus or spice). This keeps the cocktail structured yet dynamic.
2. Consider the Whiskey’s Flavor Profile
- For spicy rye whiskey: Pair Angostura bitters with orange and black walnut bitters.
- For rich, caramel-forward bourbon: Try a mix of chocolate and orange bitters.
- For high-proof whiskey: Grapefruit or lemon bitters can add brightness to prevent heaviness.
3. Avoid Overpowering the Drink
Bitters should enhance, not dominate. Overusing a strong bitter (like black walnut or mole) can mask the whiskey’s character rather than elevate it. Start with one dash of each type and adjust to taste.
4. Experiment and Taste as You Go
There’s no single “perfect” mix of bitters—it all comes down to personal preference. Try small variations and take note of which combinations bring out your favorite whiskey characteristics.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that thrives on simplicity, yet its depth and complexity come from the careful selection of ingredients—especially bitters. Whether you choose the classic warmth of Angostura, the floral brightness of Peychaud’s, or experiment with citrus, chocolate, or spiced varieties, bitters allow you to personalize and perfect your drink. They enhance the whiskey’s natural flavors, balance sweetness, and add aromatic intrigue, transforming a basic combination of spirits and sugar into something extraordinary.
Mastering the use of bitters is the key to crafting an exceptional Old Fashioned. Whether you stick to tradition or explore new flavor combinations, understanding how different bitters interact with whiskey will help you refine your cocktail-making skills. So, the next time you mix up an Old Fashioned, take a moment to appreciate the role of bitters—those small but mighty drops that bring your drink to life. Cheers! 🥃