The 10 best Angostura Bitters cocktail recipes

A sweeter take on the classic Manhattan, where red vermouth plays a starring role in softening the edges of the bourbon and enhancing the cocktail with its sweet, aromatic profile. The dash of Angostura bitters adds complexity, ensuring the drink maintains its spirited character. Originating from the late 19th century, this variation demonstrates red vermouth's ability to adapt and meld within different cocktail traditions, offering a richer, more approachable flavor profile.

This iconic cocktail is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending the smooth, citrus notes of Cointreau with the botanical richness of gin and the sweet, fruity undertones of cherry liqueur and pineapple juice. A dash of grenadine and Angostura bitters complement these flavors, creating a concoction that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. Originating from the Raffles Hotel in Singapore in the early 20th century, this drink has an esteemed place in cocktail history, embodying an era of exotic travel and cultural fusion. It's a testament to the ability of Cointreau to balance and enhance a complex array of ingredients.

This cocktail achieves a remarkable balance between the zesty punch of lemon juice and the botanical sharpness of dry gin, with Angostura Bitters rounding out the edges and binding these elements with its rich, multi-layered complexity. The sugar syrup adds sweetness to temper the acidity, creating a drink that is both refreshing and robust, showcasing the bitters’ ability to elevate simple ingredients into a cocktail with depth and vibrance.

Merging the herbal sweetness of vermouth with the boldness of rye whiskey, this cocktail is perfected by the aromatic complexity of Angostura Bitters. The bitters not only add a subtle spice that complements the whiskey’s warmth but also enhance the herbal notes of the vermouth, creating a perfectly balanced drink that is both sophisticated and intriguing. This is a classic example of how a few dashes of Angostura Bitters can transform a cocktail into an elegant symphony of flavors.

Drawing inspiration from the tropical flavors of the Caribbean, this rum-based concoction is a symphony of sweet, citrus, and spice. Lime juice and lemon juice work in harmony to cut through the richness of the rum, while falernum and a dash of bitters add layers of complexity. Its name hints at the drink's ability to mix up the senses, offering a vibrant and refreshing taste of island life. It's a standout choice for its bold use of contrasting flavors, creating a memorable and exotic experience.