A Dash of Depth: How Bitters Transform a Cocktail
Bitters are the quiet alchemists of the cocktail world—used in drops but delivering bold results. At Durham Distillery, where we believe every ingredient should have purpose, bitters are one of the most powerful tools behind the bar. They’re not there to dominate; they’re there to balance, to elevate, and to deepen what’s already good.
So what exactly are bitters?
They’re highly concentrated infusions made by steeping botanicals—like roots, spices, herbs, citrus peels, and barks—in high-proof alcohol. The alcohol extracts the flavours and preserves the intensity. What you’re left with is a small but mighty bottle packed with layers: bitter, herbal, floral, spicy, or citrusy depending on the blend.
Bitters work like seasoning in a dish. They cut through sweetness, round out sharp notes, and give a cocktail its finish. Take a Manhattan with our 100% Canadian Rye Whisky or a Negroni with our London Calling Dry Gin, adding bitters will give the cocktail a fuller bodied, more rounded and balanced flavour.
How Bitters Are Made
Crafting bitters is a process of patience and precision. Start with a base spirit (often neutral and high-proof), then layer in your chosen botanicals. The mixture is sealed and steeped for several weeks, sometimes with periodic agitation to draw out the full range of flavours. Once it’s strained and reduced, it’s bottled—ready to transform any cocktail it touches.
How to Best Use Bitters
When using bitters, less is more. Start with 1–3 dashes, depending on the recipe, and build from there. Add them directly to the mixing glass or shaker, or layer them on top for aroma. Use aromatic bitters in spirit-forward classics, citrus bitters in refreshing sours, or try chocolate in dessert-style or coffee cocktails. Stir, sip, and adjust.
For cocktail recipes using bitters visit our recipe page – Cocktail Recipes.