Bitters are not just tinctures. While both bitters and tinctures are liquid extracts used in cocktails and other beverages, there are some key differences between the two.
Bitters, as the name suggests, are known for their bitter taste. They are made by infusing or macerating a combination of herbs, spices, roots, and other botanicals in a high-proof alcohol. These bittering agents include ingredients like wormwood, gentian, cassia, angelica root, orris root, and quinine. The combination of these ingredients gives bitters their distinct flavor profile.
On the other hand, tinctures are liquid extracts made by soaking herbs, spices, or other plant materials in alcohol or a mixture of alcohol and water. Unlike bitters, tinctures do not necessarily contain bittering agents. They can be made with a wide range of ingredients, such as fruits, flowers, nuts, or even medicinal herbs. The purpose of tinctures can vary, from adding flavor to providing health benefits.
While both bitters and tinctures can be used to enhance the flavor of cocktails, bitters are specifically designed to add a bitter element to drinks. They are commonly used in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Negroni, where their bitter taste helps balance out the sweetness of other ingredients. Bitters can also be used as a digestive aid or enjoyed on their own as a concentrated flavoring.
Tinctures, on the other hand, offer a more versatile range of flavors. They can be used to add a specific taste or aroma to a drink, such as lavender or citrus tincture. Tinctures can also be used in cooking and baking to infuse flavors into dishes, or even taken as herbal remedies for their potential health benefits.
While both bitters and tinctures are liquid extracts used in beverages, bitters specifically contain bittering agents and are known for their bitter taste. Tinctures, on the other hand, can be made with a variety of ingredients and do not necessarily have a bitter flavor. Both have their own unique uses and can add depth and complexity to cocktails and other drinks.