Bitters can indeed give you a buzz if consumed in sufficient quantities. While a few dashes of bitters added to a cocktail won’t have much effect, a larger amount can definitely have an impact on your alcohol tolerance.
To understand why bitters can get you buzzed, let’s take a closer look at what they are. Bitters are concentrated flavoring agents made by infusing various botanicals, herbs, and spices in a high-proof alcohol solution. They are commonly used in cocktails to add complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
The alcohol content in bitters varies, but it typically ranges from 35% to 45% alcohol by volume (ABV). This is similar to the alcohol content of many spirits like whiskey, vodka, or rum. Consequently, consuming a substantial amount of bitters can lead to intoxication, just like drinking shots of these spirits.
To put it into perspective, a standard bottle of bitters usually contains around 150 to 200 milliliters of liquid. If we assume an average ABV of 40%, this means that a bottle of bitters is equivalent to approximately 3 shots of whiskey in terms of alcohol content. Consuming this amount of alcohol within a relatively short time frame can definitely result in feeling buzzed or even drunk, depending on your tolerance.
It’s important to note that bitters are typically used as a flavoring agent in cocktails rather than consumed on their own. The bitterness and potent flavors of bitters often make them unpalatable to drink straight. However, some people may still choose to consume bitters neat or in larger quantities, perhaps due to personal preference or experimentation.
When consuming bitters in larger amounts, it’s essential to be mindful of your alcohol intake and drink responsibly. Just like any alcoholic beverage, excessive consumption of bitters can lead to intoxication, impaired judgment, and other adverse effects associated with alcohol.
While a few dashes of bitters won’t get you buzzed, consuming a significant amount of bitters equivalent to several shots of whiskey can indeed result in feeling buzzed or even drunk. It’s crucial to be aware of your alcohol tolerance and consume bitters responsibly, especially if you choose to experiment with larger quantities.