What is bitters, and how is it used in cocktails?

Bitters are a concentrated flavoring agent that plays a crucial role in the world of cocktails. They are typically made from a blend of herbs, spices, and other botanicals, steeped in alcohol to extract their flavors and aromas. The purpose of bitters is to add complexity and depth to cocktails, balancing sweetness with their unique bitter profile.

When used in cocktails, bitters serve to enhance the overall taste experience, providing a contrasting flavor that can brighten or round out a drink. Just a few dashes can elevate a cocktail, bringing together the various components and creating a harmonious blend. For instance, bitters are commonly utilized in classic cocktails such as the Manhattan and Old Fashioned, where their presence is essential to achieving the intended flavor balance.

While other options might reference ingredients or components commonly found in cocktails, they do not capture the essence and function of bitters as effectively as recognizing them as a concentrated flavoring agent used to enrich drinks.