Angostura bitters and Old Fashioned bitters are not the same, but they are both types of aromatic bitters. While Angostura bitters have a distinct flavor profile that leans heavily toward cloves and dried cherries, Old Fashioned bitters are crafted with a different emphasis on flavors.
I have personally crafted our Old Fashioned Aromatic Bitters with the intention of creating the perfect bitters for an Old Fashioned cocktail. In doing so, I focused on incorporating flavors such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, which add a warm and spicy dimension to the bitters. These flavors complement the traditional ingredients of an Old Fashioned cocktail, enhancing its overall taste.
It's important to note that the flavor profile of bitters can vary between different brands and makers. For example, some Old Fashioned bitters may still contain hints of cloves, but they are typically used in a more subtle manner to provide complexity rather than dominating the overall taste.
To further differentiate between Angostura bitters and Old Fashioned bitters, let's delve into their individual characteristics:
Angostura Bitters:
– Aromatic bitters with a strong presence of cloves and dried cherries.
– Known for their deep, rich, and complex flavor profile.
– Frequently used as a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and the Martini.
– Adds a distinct spiciness and bitter edge to cocktails.
Old Fashioned Bitters:
– Specifically crafted to complement the Old Fashioned cocktail.
– Emphasizes flavors like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
– Aimed at creating a warm and spicy profile that enhances the cocktail's traditional ingredients.
– Adds complexity and depth to the Old Fashioned, without overpowering it.
While both Angostura bitters and Old Fashioned bitters fall under the category of aromatic bitters, they have distinct flavor profiles. Angostura bitters lean heavily toward cloves and dried cherries, while Old Fashioned bitters focus on cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with only a touch of cloves. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired flavor profile for your cocktail.