Cherry bitters, oh how I love them! These little bottles of liquid delight are bursting with the juicy, tart flavor of cherries. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting many different types of bitters, and cherry bitters are definitely one of my favorites.
When you first take a whiff of cherry bitters, you are greeted with the aroma of ripe, juicy cherries. It's almost as if you are standing in a cherry orchard, surrounded by the sweet scent of the fruit hanging from the trees. The smell is enticing and makes your mouth water in anticipation of the flavors to come.
Upon tasting cherry bitters, the first thing that hits your palate is the intense burst of candy cherry flavor. It's like biting into a cherry-flavored gummy candy, but with a more sophisticated and complex twist. The sweetness is balanced perfectly with a hint of tartness, giving the bitters a refreshing and lively quality.
As you savor the flavors, you may notice a subtle hint of almond in the background. It's a delicate nutty note that adds depth and richness to the overall taste. The almond flavor complements the cherry perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
One thing I particularly appreciate about cherry bitters is that they are only slightly bitter. Unlike some other bitters that can be overpoweringly bitter, cherry bitters strike a nice balance between sweetness and bitterness. This makes them incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate into a wide range of cocktails.
Another element that stands out in cherry bitters is the presence of cherry extract. This extract adds an extra layer of cherry flavor, intensifying the fruitiness and bringing it to the forefront. It's like a concentrated essence of cherry, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Cherry bitters are a classic choice for cocktails like Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, and Monteleones. Their fruity and vibrant character adds depth and complexity to these drinks, elevating them to a whole new level. I personally love using cherry bitters in a whiskey sour, as they complement the tartness of the lemon and the richness of the bourbon beautifully.
Cherry bitters are a delightful concoction that captures the essence of ripe, juicy cherries. They offer a balance of tart and sour flavors, with a touch of sweetness and a hint of almond. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or simply appreciate the taste of cherries, cherry bitters are a must-try. Cheers to the wonderful world of bitters!