A Manhattan cocktail remains an enduring classic in the vast world of mixed drinks. It is a perfect combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It’s a cocktail that bartenders love, because it demands precision and an appreciation for quality ingredients. At the heart of this precision lies the question: which bitters should you use? This choice can make or break the classic Manhattan taste.

Why Angostura Bitters are the Traditional Choice

For many years, Angostura bitters have been the go-to for Manhattan cocktail enthusiasts. Hailing from Venezuela and named after the town of Angostura (now Ciudad Bolívar), this particular bitters is delicious. It brings a perfect blend of herbs, roots, and other botanicals. Its slightly bitter, mildly herbal, and subtle spicy notes complement the sweetness of the vermouth and the depth of bourbon in a Manhattan. Its consistent flavor profile has cemented its place as a staple in the cocktail world.

What Type of Bitters Should I Use In A Manhattan Cocktail?

While the traditionalist might stick religiously to Angostura, the modern mixologist knows the fun is in the experimentation. Different bitters can bring unique twists, turning the classic Manhattan cocktail into a brand new experience with just a few drops.

List of 6 Types of Bitters That Can Be Used in a Manhattan:

1. Angostura Bitters: This is a the most traditional bitter used for Manhattan cocktails, and by far the most common. Angostura bitters are made with gentian root, which is (of course) bitter. The flavor is extreme herbal, and its acidic tones make it a perfect balance for the smoothness of bourbon.
2. Peychaud’s Bitters: With roots in New Orleans, Peychaud’s offers a sweeter, lighter profile than Angostura. It has floral notes with a hint of anise and is often associated with the Sazerac cocktail. In a Manhattan, it can introduce a new layer of complexity.
3. Orange Bitters: If you’re aiming for a fruitier twist, orange bitters like those from Regan’s or Fee Brothers offer a citrusy pop. They perfectly counterbalance the sweetness of the vermouth, and their bright notes can lighten up the drink.
4. Chocolate Bitters: Bittermens Xocolatl Mole or Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters can introduce a deep, cocoa-rich profile to your Manhattan cocktail. This dark chocolate taste, combined with the warmth of bourbon, is a delightful twist for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Cherry Bark Vanilla Bitters: A product by Bittercube, these bitters merge the fruity notes of cherry with the smooth allure of vanilla. Given the popularity of a cherry garnish in a Manhattan, this choice feels both innovative and somewhat traditional.
6. Black Walnut Bitters: If you’re looking for a robust, nutty profile in your Manhattan, Fee Brothers’ Black Walnut Bitters might be the answer. They impart a warm, woody character to the drink, making it richer and more autumnal.

Any of these would go well with our list of Manhattan cocktail variations.

While the classic Angostura will always have its revered place in a Manhattan cocktail, there’s a world of bitters out there waiting for exploration. So, next time you reach for that bottle of bourbon and sweet vermouth, consider changing things up a bit with a different type of bitters. The Manhattan is as versatile as it is classic. Your choice of bitters can introduce delightful variations to this beloved drink.