Best Cocktail Bitters of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Cocktail bitters are a concentrated alcoholic mixture made from herbs, fruits, and spices that are used to enhance the flavor of cocktails. They are typically added in small amounts to a drink to give it a unique and complex taste. Bitters were originally used for medicinal purposes, but over time they have become a staple in the world of mixology. There are many different types of bitters available, each with its own distinct flavor profile. Some popular varieties include Angostura bitters, Peychaud's bitters, and orange bitters. Whether you're a professional bartender or just enjoy making cocktails at home, adding bitters to your drinks can take them to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Angostura Aromatic Bitters 4FL OZ Cover #TOP 1
Angostura Aromatic Bitters 4FL OZ
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters 5oz Cover #TOP 2
Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters 5oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bitters "Triple Play" Variety 3-Pack Cover #TOP 3
Bitters "Triple Play" Variety 3-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Cocktail Bitters

#TOP 1

Angostura Aromatic Bitters 4FL OZ

ANG-ARO-4-1PK
Aromatic
Angostura Aromatic Bitters 4FL OZ Cover
Angostura Aromatic Cocktail Bitters - 4FL OZ Bottle

Angostura Aromatic Bitters is a must-have for any cocktail enthusiast. This 4 FL OZ bottle contains the number one selling bitters brand, known for its exceptional taste crafted from a secret recipe. Developed in 1824, these bitters are essential for elevating your home or professional cocktail creations. You can easily enhance the flavors of your favorite spirits like bourbon or gin, making your drinks even more enjoyable. With its premium ingredients, Angostura bitters not only improve cocktails but also add depth to coffee, pastries, and various dishes, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.

What We Like
Enhances Old Fashioned drinks
Long-lasting with few drops
Competitive pricing on Amazon
Good for various cocktails
Preferred over cheaper brands
What We Don't Like
Not suitable for all recipes
#TOP 2

Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters 5oz

5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters 5oz Cover
Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Cocktail Bitters - Aromatic Cocktail Mixer & Concentrated Flavoring, Gluten Free, Vegan-Friendly, 5 fl oz

This product is a 5 oz bottle of West Indian Orange Bitters, categorized as cocktail bitters.

What We Like
Great quality product
Versatile for various cocktails
Unique and complex flavor profile
Competitive pricing on Amazon
What We Don't Like
Packaging could be improved
Small bottle may not last
#TOP 3

Bitters "Triple Play" Variety 3-Pack

Bitters Triple Play
Peychauds, Regans, Angostura
3 Piece Set
Bitters "Triple Play" Variety 3-Pack Cover
Bitters Triple Play Cocktail Bitters for Old Fashioned Cocktails Variety Pack-Angostura Aromatic 4oz, Peychauds Aromatic 5oz, Regans Orange No 6 5oz

This cocktail bitters pack provides a great variety with three different flavors - Angostura, Peychauds and Regans, making it a "must-have" for any cocktail enthusiast. The pack includes 4 oz of Angostura bitters, 5 oz of Regans bitters, and 5 oz of Peychauds bitters, providing enough options to experiment with different cocktail recipes.

What We Like
Variety of bitters
Great for cocktail experimentation
Economical sample kit
Convenient for mixology
Good addition to liquor cabinet
What We Don't Like
Some bitters not yet tried
#TOP 4

WOODFORD RESERVE® BITTERS DRAM SET – FIVE PACK

WOODFORD RESERVE® BITTERS DRAM SET – FIVE PACK Cover
WOODFORD RESERVE® BITTERS DRAM SET – FIVE PACK (10ML EACH)

The Woodford Reserve Bitters Dram Set is a gift set that includes five different flavors of cocktail bitters, each 10ml in size. The set includes Orange, Spiced Cherry, Sorghum & Sassafras, Aromatic and Chocolate flavors. This is a great way to mix and match for unique Woodford Reserve Bourbon cocktails, making it the perfect gift for cocktail lovers.

What We Like
Great variety pack
Prevents messy pouring
Unique and subtle flavors
Excellent for cocktail enhancement
Good for gifting
What We Don't Like
Leakage issue with packaging
#TOP 5

Fee Brothers Black Walnut Cocktail Bitters

最新の絶妙な製品-66
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Fee Brothers Black Walnut Cocktail Bitters Cover
Fee Brothers Black Walnut Cocktail Bitters - Aromatic Cocktail Mixer & Concentrated Flavoring, Gluten Free, Vegan-Friendly, 5 fl oz

Fee Brothers Walnut Bitters is a versatile addition to your spice rack behind the bar. This 4-ounce bottle brings a robust nut flavor that adds complexity to your cocktails. Whether you're mixing up classic cocktails or experimenting with new recipes, these bitters provide a unique twist that will impress your guests. Not only are they great for cocktails, but they can also be used to enhance desserts or add a rich nutty flavor to your favorite recipes. The convenient 4-ounce size ensures you'll always have these bitters on hand when you need them. With Fee Brothers Walnut Bitters, you can elevate your drink creations and culinary adventures with ease.

What We Like
Rich and complex flavor
Perfect for Old Fashioned cocktails
Versatile in various drinks
Enhances seasonal cocktails
Smooth and enjoyable taste
What We Don't Like
May not suit every palate
#TOP 6

Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle

WRB-ACOC
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 4)
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle Cover
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle: Aromatic, Spiced Cherry, Orange, and Chocolate Cocktail Bitters - 2 oz Each

The Woodford Reserve Bitters Set includes four unique flavors: Aromatic, Spiced Cherry, Orange, and Chocolate, each in a 2 oz bottle. These bitters are aged in Woodford Reserve bourbon barrels, enhancing their rich flavors. You can elevate your cocktails, especially classics like the Old Fashioned, with these carefully crafted bitters. They are designed to bring out the essential tastes in your favorite drinks, making each sip more enjoyable. With these bitters, you can easily add depth and complexity to any bourbon or whiskey cocktail.

What We Like
Variety of flavors
Enhances cocktails significantly
Great for mock-cocktails
Control over dosage
Natural intensity of flavor
What We Don't Like
Chocolate bitters may not suit all
Aromatic bitters impact is subtle
#TOP 7

Strongwater Bitters Sampler Set

Strongwater Bitters Sampler Set Cover
Strongwater Cocktail Bitters Sampler Set - Cocktail Bitters Set Makes 48 Cocktails - Bitters Gift Set w/Cherry, Lavender, Bonfire, Orange, Aromatic, Walnut, Orange Bitters - 6 Bottles, 0.5 Fl Oz

Introducing the Strongwater Bitters Sampler Set, a must-have addition to your cocktail collection. This set includes five 0.5 fl oz dropper bottles of handcrafted bitters, expertly made in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. With flavors like Cherry, Orange, Aromatic, Black Walnut, and Lavender, these bitters are perfect for creating classic Old Fashioned cocktails or experimenting with new concoctions. Made with real fruit, herbs, and botanicals, these bitters offer a diverse range of flavor profiles to elevate your cocktails. Simply add a few drops to your favorite drink, stir it up, and enjoy a perfectly balanced and flavorful cocktail. Plus, these bitters are non-GMO, gluten-free, and contain no added sugar, making them a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Elevate your mixology game with the Strongwater Bitters Sampler Set.

What We Like
Great flavor assortment
Fun cocktail-making experience
Small bottles for variety
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Customer service response needed
Single ice mold limitation
#TOP 8

Strongwater Old Fashioned Craft Cocktail Mixer

1010
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Strongwater Old Fashioned Craft Cocktail Mixer Cover
Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix - Makes 32 Cocktails - Handcrafted Old Fashioned Syrup with Bitters, Orange, Cherry, Organic Demerara Sugar - Craft Cocktail Mixer, Just Mix with Bourbon,Whiskey - 1 Pack

Strongwater Old Fashioned Craft Cocktail Mixer is a non-alcoholic blend that allows you to enjoy the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail every time. Made with organic cherries, fresh orange peel, and a perfect blend of cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and bitter herbs, this cocktail mixer is a national Good Foods Award Finalist. It is non-GMO, gluten-free, and contains no alcohol, and can be used to make up to 32 cocktails.

What We Like
Amazing taste
Convenient cocktail preparation
Great alternative to bitters
Versatile for various cocktails
Consistent quality
What We Don't Like
Price may be high
A bit sweet for some
#TOP 9

Fee Brothers Bar Cocktail Bitters Set

4 Fl Oz (Pack of 6)
Fee Brothers Bar Cocktail Bitters Set Cover
Fee Brothers Bar Cocktail Bitters - Set of 6

Fee Brothers Bar Cocktail Bitters Set includes 6 different cocktail bitters, including the classic Old Fashioned flavor, made with pride in Rochester, NY. Perfect for adding depth and complexity to your favorite cocktails.

What We Like
Good quality bitters
Variety of flavors available
Enhances cocktails and drinks
Convenient for home bartending
Quick delivery and good packaging
What We Don't Like
Some flavors not appealing
Non-returnable item concern
#TOP 10

Fee Brothers Cherry Bitters

163012
5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Fee Brothers Cherry Bitters Cover
Fee Brothers Cherry Cocktail Bitters - Aromatic Cocktail Mixer & Concentrated Flavoring, Gluten Free, Vegan-Friendly, 5 fl oz

Fee Brothers Cherry Bitters is a 5 oz. bottle of fruit bitters that adds a strong cherry flavor to cocktails. As a member of the fruit bitters family, it is ideal for enhancing cocktails with its strong fruit flavor. Simply use a few dashes to add a delicious twist to your drinks.

What We Like
Rich, tart cherry flavor
Great for cocktails
Subtle, no funky aftertaste
Long-lasting freshness
Versatile in various drinks
What We Don't Like
Strong initial flavor
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Cocktail Bitters to Meet Your Needs

What are Cocktail Bitters?

Cocktail bitters are a type of bittering agent used in small amounts to enhance the flavor of cocktails and mixed drinks. They are typically made from a combination of botanical extracts, including herbs, spices, fruits, and other ingredients, which are soaked in a high-proof alcohol base. Bitters are often referred to as the "spice cabinet" of the cocktail world, as they add depth and complexity to a wide range of mixed drinks.

How to Choose Cocktail Bitters

When it comes to choosing cocktail bitters, there are a few key things to consider. Here are some tips to help you make the best selection for your needs:

  1. Consider the flavor profile. The first thing to consider when choosing cocktail bitters is the flavor profile. Bitters come in a wide range of flavors, from spicy and bitter to fruity and sweet. Think about the flavors you like and the cocktails you enjoy, and choose bitters that will complement those flavors. For example, if you like spicy cocktails, you may want to choose a bottle of aromatic bitters, which are known for their warm, spicy flavors.

  2. Consider the strength of the bitters. Bitters can range in strength from mild to potent, so it's important to choose a product that is appropriate for the cocktail you are making. For example, if you are making a delicate cocktail, you may want to use a gentler bitters with a lower alcohol content. On the other hand, if you are making a bold, spirit-forward cocktail, you may want to use a more potent bitters to add depth and complexity.

  3. Think about the other ingredients in your cocktail. In addition to considering the flavor and strength of the bitters, it's also important to think about the other ingredients in your cocktail. For example, if you are making a fruity cocktail, you may want to choose bitters with complementary fruit flavors. Alternatively, if you are making a cocktail with herbal or botanical flavors, you may want to choose bitters that will enhance those flavors.

  4. Consider your personal taste preferences. Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing cocktail bitters is your personal taste preferences. Experiment with different bitters and see which ones you like best. Don't be afraid to try new flavors and combinations, and don't be afraid to adjust the amount of bitters you use to suit your taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right cocktail bitters can make all the difference in the flavor and enjoyment of your mixed drinks. By considering the flavor profile, strength, other ingredients, and your personal taste preferences, you can find the perfect bitters for your needs. Happy mixing!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the different types of bitters for cocktails?

There are various types of bitters available for cocktails. Aromatic and orange bitters are popular choices, while flavors like celery, lavender, and root beer bitters offer unique complexity to beverages. Bitters can have an alcohol content ranging from 20% to 50% by volume.

2. Can you drink straight bitters?

While it is possible to drink bitters straight, it is an acquired taste and may not be enjoyable for everyone. Bitters are highly concentrated and typically used in small amounts to add flavor and depth to cocktails.

3. What is the purpose of bitters?

The purpose of bitters is to balance the taste of a cocktail. By adding the bitter taste to the sweet and sour flavors found in most cocktails, bitters contribute to a more complex and complete flavor profile.

4. What are the three types of bitters?

The most popular types of bitters are Angostura bitters, Peychaud's bitters, and orange bitters. However, there are many other flavors available, such as celery, grapefruit, chocolate, peach, lemon, cherry, rhubarb, plum, and mint.

5. Can you buy bitters under 21 in the US?

Bitters are technically alcoholic, but they are sold in small bottles and are typically used in such small amounts that their overall alcohol contribution is negligible. As a result, you do not need to be 21 or older to buy them.

6. Who should avoid bitters?

Some individuals with specific health conditions, such as epilepsy, kidney disease, liver disease, low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or allergies to the herbs used in bitters, should avoid consuming bitters. Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should also refrain from taking bitters.

7. Is bitters good for your gut?

For individuals with low stomach acid or gastrointestinal issues, bitters can help stimulate gastric juices and aid in digestion. They increase the production of gastric juices, which can be beneficial for digestion.

Editor's Notes

During our cocktail bitter research, we found 24 cocktail bitter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 75,308 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cocktail bitters list. We found that most customers choose cocktail bitters with an average price of $17.78.

The cocktail bitters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cocktail bitters, including Essential Contraptions, Fee Brothers, Bitters Triple Play, Bourbon Barrel Foods, Woodford Reserve. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Cocktail Bitters Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand Essential Contraptions Fee Brothers Bitters Triple Play Bourbon Barrel Foods Fee Brothers Woodford Reserve Strongwater Strongwater Fee Brothers Fee Brothers
Flavor Coffee Orange Classic Orange, Spiced Cherry, Sorghum & Sassafras, Aromatic, Chocolate Spice Aromatic, Spiced Cherry, Orange, Chocolate Original Bitters Sampler Classic Old Fashioned 1 Pack - -
Item Form Liquid - Liquid Liquid - Liquid Liquid Liquid - -
Specialty Herbs - Herbs Bourbon Barrel Aged - - Herbs natural - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy