When it comes to bourbon, bitters can enhance the whiskey’s natural flavors and bring out the best in the spirit.
They can also help to cut through the sweetness of the other ingredients in a cocktail and add a layer of complexity to the drink.
It’s essential to choose the right ones for your bourbon-based drinks.
In this article, I’ve researched and tested various bitters to identify the seven best bitters for bourbon. I have taken into account factors such as flavor profile, quality, and versatility to bring you a list of bitters that will take your bourbon cocktails to the next level.
Related: 16 Best Bourbon Cocktails With Bitters
What are bitters?
Bitters are a crucial ingredient in many classic cocktails, and they can make all the difference in a well-crafted drink. They are used to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients and add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Bitters are made by infusing herbs, spices, and fruits in high-proof alcohol, and they come in a wide variety of flavors, from citrusy and floral to spicy and bitter.
Best Bitters for Bourbon
From classic aromatic bitters to more unique flavors like chocolate and orange, there are plenty of options to choose from.
To help you find the perfect addition to your home bar, I’ve rounded up the seven best bitters for bourbon.
Cheers!
1. Bittermilk No.7 Gingerbread Old Fashioned Mix
Looking for a simple way to make a delicious gingerbread old fashioned cocktail?
Bittermilk No.7 Gingerbread Old Fashioned Mix is the perfect solution.
Pros
- Made with all natural ingredients, no preservatives or artificial flavors
- Handcrafted by bartenders in Charleston, South Carolina with real ingredients
- Award winner recognized for Outstanding Product Line in the SOFI Awards by the Specialty Food Association
Cons
- Only released seasonally for a limited time
- Pricey for the amount you get
- May need to add additional sweetener to taste
Bittermilk No.7 Gingerbread Old Fashioned Mix is simple to use, just add your favorite aged rum or bourbon for a holiday inspired cocktail. Not only does it make a great gingerbread old fashioned, but the bottle also includes a recipe for a festive eggnog using Bittermilk No.7 Gingerbread Old Fashioned Mix and a few simple ingredients.
The mix is made with Florida Golden Cane Sugar, Sorghum Molasses, Ginger Juice, Fresh Orange Peel, Spices, Gentian Root, Cinchona Bark, and Tartaric Acid. This all-natural mix is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious cocktail without any artificial flavors or preservatives.
While Bittermilk No.7 Gingerbread Old Fashioned Mix is only released seasonally for a limited time, it is well worth the wait. The mix received recognition for Outstanding Product Line in the SOFI Awards by the Specialty Food Association and is handcrafted by bartenders in Charleston, South Carolina with real ingredients.
The only downside is that the price may be a bit steep for some, but the quality of the ingredients and the ease of use make it a worthwhile purchase. If you’re looking for a simple way to make a delicious gingerbread old fashioned cocktail, Bittermilk No.7 Gingerbread Old Fashioned Mix is definitely worth trying.
2. Strongwater Cherry Bitters
If you’re looking for a versatile bitters that pairs well with both brown and white spirits, Strongwater Cherry Bitters is a great choice. The real tart and Bing cherries give it a fruit-forward profile that’s perfect for enhancing classic cocktails like the Manhattan.
Pros
- Handcrafted with real, organic cherries for a rich and fruity taste
- Bourbon base adds earthy and forest notes to the blend
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and made with no added sugar
Cons
- Cinnamon flavor could be stronger for those who prefer a spicier taste
- May not be the best choice for those looking for a bitters with a more traditional bitter taste
- Some users may find the price point to be a bit high compared to other bitters on the market
If you’re looking for a bitters that’s made with real, premium ingredients and has a versatile flavor profile, Strongwater Cherry Bitters is definitely worth trying. The cherry flavor is prominent without being overwhelming, and the bourbon base adds a unique twist that sets it apart from other bitters. While the cinnamon flavor could be stronger, it still adds a nice touch of spice to the blend. Keep in mind that this bitters may not be the best choice for those who are looking for a more traditional bitter taste. Overall, if you’re a fan of classic cocktails like the Manhattan and want to take your drink game to the next level, Strongwater Cherry Bitters is a great choice.
3. Woodford Reserve Bitters Dram Set
If you’re looking to elevate your cocktail game, the Woodford Reserve Bitters Dram Set is a must-have. With five unique flavors, this set allows you to mix and match to create the perfect drink.
Pros
- Adorable gift set with five different flavors
- Convenient diffuser top makes it easy to add just the right amount of bitters to your drink
- Versatile flavors can be used in cocktails, baked goods, or even seltzer water
Cons
- Small bottle size may not last long if used frequently
- Some may find the flavors too strong or overpowering
- Higher price point compared to other bitters on the market
The Woodford Reserve Bitters Dram Set is perfect for anyone looking to experiment with new flavors and elevate their cocktail game. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, these bitters are easy to use and add a unique twist to any drink. The convenient diffuser top ensures that you can add just the right amount of bitters to your drink without making a mess.
Each flavor in the set is unique and versatile, making it easy to create a wide range of cocktails or even add a drop to your favorite baked goods. While the small bottle size may not last long if used frequently, it’s the perfect size for experimenting with new recipes and finding your favorite flavor combination.
Overall, the Woodford Reserve Bitters Dram Set is a great investment for anyone looking to up their cocktail game and try something new. With five unique flavors, this set is sure to impress and make a great addition to any home bar.
4. Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle
If you’re looking to add depth and complexity to your bourbon or whiskey cocktails, the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle is a must-have.
Pros
- The barrel-aging process lends a rich and robust flavor to each of the four bitters included in the bundle.
- The variety of flavors – Aromatic, Spiced Cherry, Orange, and Chocolate – allows for experimentation and creativity in cocktail-making.
- The bitters are carefully crafted to enhance the essential flavors of your favorite cocktail, rather than overpowering them.
Cons
- The price point may be a bit steep for those who are just starting to experiment with bitters in their cocktails.
- The chocolate bitters may not be as versatile as the other flavors, and may only work well in certain types of cocktails.
- The 2 oz size may not last long for frequent cocktail-makers, and may need to be replenished often.
As someone who enjoys a good Old Fashioned or Manhattan, I can attest to the fact that the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle takes these classic cocktails to the next level. The Aromatic bitters add depth and complexity, while the Spiced Cherry and Orange bitters provide a fruity and slightly sweet twist. The Chocolate bitters are a unique addition, and work well in cocktails that feature chocolate or coffee flavors.
One thing to keep in mind when purchasing this bundle is the price point – it may be a bit steep for those who are just starting to experiment with bitters in their cocktails. Additionally, the chocolate bitters may not be as versatile as the other flavors, and may only work well in certain types of cocktails. However, for those who are serious about their cocktail-making and looking to elevate their game, the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Bitters Bundle is a worthwhile investment.
The barrel-aging process lends a rich and robust flavor to each of the four bitters included in the bundle, and the variety of flavors allows for experimentation and creativity in cocktail-making. The bitters are carefully crafted to enhance the essential flavors of your favorite cocktail, rather than overpowering them, making them a great addition to any home bar.
5. Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful addition to your bourbon cocktails, Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters is a great choice.
Pros
- The cherry flavor is prominent without being overpowering, adding a nice touch of sweetness to your drink.
- The bitters are barrel-aged, giving them a depth of flavor and complexity that you won’t find in other bitters.
- The small bottle size makes it easy to experiment with different cocktails without committing to a large bottle.
Cons
- The price point is a bit high compared to other bitters on the market.
- Some users have reported that the bottle was not completely full upon arrival.
- The spiced aspect of the flavor profile may not be to everyone’s taste.
Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters is a great choice for those who want to add a unique twist to their bourbon cocktails. The cherry flavor is prominent without being overpowering, and the barrel-aged aspect of the bitters adds a depth of flavor that you won’t find in other bitters. The small bottle size makes it easy to experiment with different cocktails, but the price point may be a bit high for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, flavorful bitters to add to your bar cart, Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters is definitely worth considering.
6. Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters
If you’re looking to elevate your cocktail game, Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters are a must-have. These bitters add a unique depth of flavor to any dark brown liquor and are perfect for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned.
Pros
- The natural bitterness of gentian root, the sweetness of cherry, and notes of spice make for a one-of-a-kind flavor profile.
- Barrel-aged in genuine Woodford Reserve bourbon barrels for a premium taste.
- Comes in a pack of two 2 oz bottles, so you’ll have plenty of bitters for your mixology needs.
Cons
- May not be suitable for those who prefer lighter or sweeter cocktails.
- The price point may be higher than other bitters on the market.
- The cherry flavor may not be to everyone’s taste.
Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters are a game-changer for any bourbon or whiskey cocktail. The natural bitterness of gentian root, combined with the sweetness of cherry and notes of spice, creates a unique and unforgettable flavor profile. These bitters are perfect for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, but can also add depth to other dark brown liquors.
What sets Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters apart is the barrel-aging process. Each bottle is aged in genuine Woodford Reserve bourbon barrels, adding a premium taste to your cocktails. And with two 2 oz bottles in each pack, you’ll have plenty of bitters for all your mixology needs.
While these bitters may not be suitable for those who prefer lighter or sweeter cocktails, they are a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their cocktail game. The price point may be higher than other bitters on the market, but the unique flavor profile and premium taste make it worth the investment.
7. Woodford Old Fashioned Bundle
If you’re looking for a complete bundle to make the perfect Old Fashioned, the Woodford Old Fashioned Bundle is a great choice.
Pros
- The Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries are delicious and make a great garnish for your Old Fashioned.
- The Woodford Reserve Orange Bitters add a nice citrus flavor to your drink.
- The Woodford Old Fashioned Syrup is rich and has some subtle bitters in it, making it easy to make a perfect Old Fashioned.
Cons
- The price is a bit high for the amount of product you get.
- The cherries may not be everyone’s favorite.
- The syrup bottle may be prone to cracking during shipping.
The Woodford Old Fashioned Bundle is a great choice for anyone who loves a good Old Fashioned. The cherries, bitters, and syrup all work together to create a perfectly balanced drink. However, the price may be a bit steep for some, and the cherries may not be to everyone’s taste. Additionally, be careful with the syrup bottle during shipping as it may crack. Overall, if you’re looking for a complete bundle to make the perfect Old Fashioned, the Woodford Old Fashioned Bundle is a great choice.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best bitters for your bourbon can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. When selecting a bitters, there are a few key features to consider:
Flavor Profile
The flavor profile of bitters can vary greatly depending on the brand and type. Some bitters have a more herbal taste, while others are more citrus-forward. Consider the flavor profile of your bourbon and choose a bitters that will complement it. For example, if you have a sweeter bourbon, you may want to choose a bitters with a more bitter flavor profile to balance it out.
Alcohol Content
Most bitters have an alcohol content of around 45%, but some can be higher or lower. Consider the alcohol content when choosing a bitters, especially if you plan to use a large amount in your cocktail. If you prefer a lower alcohol content, look for bitters that have a lower ABV.
Brand Reputation
When selecting a bitters, consider the reputation of the brand. Look for brands that have been around for a long time and have a good reputation in the cocktail community. You can also read reviews online to get a better idea of the quality of the product.
Price
Bitters can vary greatly in price, with some brands being more expensive than others. Consider your budget when choosing a bitters, but keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best bitters for your bourbon and create the best bourbon cocktails.
Looking for the best bourbon cocktails with bitters?
Classic bourbon cocktails with bitters like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Sazerac, and Boulevardier are just a few of the many drinks made with bourbon and bitters.
The best bitters for bourbon create balance. Bourbon with sweet vanilla, corn, caramel, fruit or nut notes, can be balanced that with bitters.
Bartenders often use orange bitters in bourbon cocktails. Aromatic bitters (Angostura is the most popular) and Peychaud’s bitters are also popular.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is an American whiskey. Most bourbon is distilled in Kentucky, which is considered its birthplace. Distillers can only label a whiskey as bourbon when its mash bill is made with at least 51 percent corn and aged in new charred oak barrels.
No matter which bourbon cocktail you choose, be sure to use a good quality bourbon.
Bourbon Cocktails with Bitters
Looking for seasonal bourbon sips? Check out these 16 Bourbon Cocktails with Bitters.
1. Old Fashioned
This is the quintessential bourbon cocktail, the Old Fashioned is a simple yet delicious combination of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus.
There are many variations of the Old Fashioned, and it’s a cocktail that can easily be customized to suit your taste. Some prefer simple syrup instead of sugar, while others add a splash of soda water.
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time.
This classic is simple yet elegant, and the perfect way to showcase the rich, complex flavors of a good bourbon.
Related: What is a Single Barrel Bourbon?
2. Manhattan
The Manhattan is a true icon in the cocktail world, and for good reason. It’s simply delicious.
Featuring the smooth, oaky flavor of bourbon, the sweet and spicy notes of vermouth, and a dash of aromatic bitters, the Manhattan is a cocktail that’s both complex and approachable.
Served up in a chilled glass with a cherry garnish, it’s a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Here are some Manhattan variations:
- Perfect Manhattan: Uses both sweet and dry vermouth.
- Black Manhattan: Uses Averna, a bitter Italian liqueur, instead of sweet vermouth.
- Maple Manhattan: Uses maple syrup instead of sweet vermouth.
3. Seelbach
The Seelbach is a sophisticated cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.
To make this cocktail, the ingredients are mixed together in a mixing glass with ice and strained into a chilled glass.
A splash of champagne is added on top, creating a beautiful effervescence that adds a touch of luxury to the drink.
The Seelbach is then garnished with an orange twist, adding a hint of citrus to the aroma.
4. New York Sour
The New York Sour with Spiced Pear is a stunning cocktail.
This drink is a twist on the classic whiskey sour, but with the added flavor of spiced pear.
The cocktail is made with bourbon, bitters, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and spiced pear syrup.
To make this cocktail, the ingredients are shaken together with ice and strained into a glass filled with ice. The spiced pear syrup is added on top, creating a beautiful layered effect.
The New York Sour with Spiced Pear is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with the warmth of the bourbon and the spiced pear syrup adding a cozy touch.
5. The Sunrise
The Sunrise is a refreshing, layered cocktail the ingredients are shaken together with ice and strained into a glass filled with ice.
The drink is then garnished with an orange slice and a cherry, adding a touch of color to the presentation.
The Sunrise is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with the freshness of the orange juice and the richness of the bourbon blending together perfectly.
It’s a great drink for sipping on a warm day.
6. Horsefeather
If you’re a fan of Moscow mules, you’re going to love the Horsefeather Cocktail!
This classic drink is a refreshing twist on the traditional recipe, made with just four simple ingredients: bourbon, ginger beer, bitters, and lime.
Originating in Lawrence, Kansas, the Horsefeather Cocktail has become a popular choice in Kansas City and beyond.
The Horsefeather Cocktail is a delicious and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any bourbon lover.
7. Bulleit Bourbon and Soda
The Bulleit Bourbon and Soda is a simple mix that packs a punch, with the zesty, clean pour perfectly complementing the rich vanilla and clove flavors of the bourbon.
The Bulleit Bourbon and Soda is a great choice for those who want a long drink that’s not too sweet or too strong.
The ratio of bourbon to soda is up to you, but I suggest starting with a 2:1 ratio and adjusting to your liking.
Stir everything together and garnish with a lemon wedge for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Kentucky Blackberry Lemonade
This summer bourbon cocktail is a combination of bourbon whiskey, ripe blackberries, lemons, and muddled mint, which gives it a kick that will leave you wanting more.
To make this delicious cocktail, you need to combine bourbon, lemon juice, blackberry puree, simple syrup, and bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake it well and strain it into a whiskey glass or mason jar. You can garnish it with fresh blackberries and mint leaves to give it a more refreshing look.
9. Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that’s similar to a Negroni, but made with bourbon instead of gin.
It’s a strong and sophisticated drink made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
It’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
There are many variations of the cocktail to experiment with. Use an orange bitter liqueur instead of Campari. You can also use different types of vermouth.
10. Revolver
The Revolver is a rich and bold cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a cold evening.
This drink combines bourbon with coffee liqueur and orange bitters for a smoky and bitter flavor.
The coffee liqueur adds a hint of sweetness that balances out the smoky flavor of the bourbon.
11. Sazerac
The Sazerac is a classic New Orleans cocktail. The Sazerac is a perfect example of a simple cocktail that is greater than the sum of its parts.
It’s made with bourbon, absinthe, Peychaud’s bitters, and a sugar cube.
The combination of the smoky bourbon with the anise flavor of the absinthe and the sweetness of the sugar creates a complex and delicious cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a cool evening.
There are also many variations to try. Experiment with different types of bitters, such as orange or aromatic bitters. Some recipes call for a splash of soda water or a touch of simple syrup.
12. Kentucky Buck
The Kentucky Buck cocktail is a modern classic that has become a favorite at bars around the country.
Created by San Diego bartender Erick Castro of Polite Provisions and Raised by Wolves, this bourbon-based drink is a delicious blend of berries, bitters, lemon juice, and ginger beer.
The fruit adds a fruity sweetness, while the ginger beer gives it a spicy kick.
Customize it for the holidays by using cranberries.
13. Black Manhattan
The Black Manhattan features bourbon, Averna, and Angostura bitters.
This is one of many riffs of the Manhattan. And it’s super easy to make at home!
The Black Manhattan is a twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. It’s made with bourbon, Averna (a bitter Italian liqueur), and a dash of orange bitters.
14. Bourbon Swizzle
The Bourbon Swizzle mixes sweet and bitter tones, and Bulleit bourbon provides a bold base.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Bulleit Bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1/4 oz ginger syrup
- 3 mint sprigs
- 3 dashes aromatic bitters
- 3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
Instructions
- Dry shake, pour into a highball glass, top with ice and swizzle
- Garnish with dashes of aromatics and Peychaud’s bitters and a mint sprig.
15. Kentucky Sunset
This strong bourbon cocktail is made with bitters and topped with tasty ginger beer!
If you love Kentucky bourbon sips, be sure and check out 10 Best Jim Beam Cocktails!
16. Rebel Yell
The Rebel Yell is perfect for those who love a strong, bold drink.
This drink is a blend of Rebel Yell bourbon, bitters, and lemon juice.
The addition of lemon juice adds a hint of tartness to the drink, creating a complex and layered flavor profile.