As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Angostura Lemon Lime Bitters does contain alcohol. However, it is important to note that despite its alcohol content of 44.7% by volume, each dash of Angostura Lemon Lime Bitters contains such a minuscule amount of alcohol that it is considered non-alcoholic.
It is common for bitters to contain a certain level of alcohol, as they are typically made by infusing various botanicals and herbs in a base spirit. In the case of Angostura Lemon Lime Bitters, the alcohol is derived from the base spirit used in the production process.
While the alcohol percentage may seem high, it is important to understand that bitters are not consumed in large quantities. Typically, only a few dashes are added to cocktails or mixed drinks to enhance their flavor profile. The small amount of alcohol in each dash is diluted by the other ingredients in the drink, making it practically negligible.
To put it into perspective, let's consider a typical cocktail recipe that calls for a couple of dashes of Angostura Lemon Lime Bitters. Assuming each dash contains approximately 0.5 ml of bitters, the total alcohol content from the bitters would be less than 0.25 ml. This amount is significantly lower than what would be considered a standard serving of alcohol.
Furthermore, the alcohol in bitters is not typically consumed in the same way as a beverage. It is used as a flavoring agent and is not intended to be consumed on its own. The small amount of alcohol in bitters is primarily present to extract and preserve the flavors of the botanicals used in the production process.
In my personal experience, I have used Angostura Lemon Lime Bitters in various cocktails, and the presence of alcohol has never been a concern. The focus is always on the unique flavor profile that the bitters add to the drink, rather than the alcohol content.
While Angostura Lemon Lime Bitters does contain alcohol, the amount present in each dash is so minimal that it remains non-alcoholic. The purpose of bitters is to enhance the flavor of cocktails and mixed drinks, and the alcohol content is not significant enough to have any noticeable effect when used in moderation.