What are bitters?
What do bitters do?
Are they Non-Alcoholic?
Are they Alcohol-Free?
There’s a lot we can discuss in the world of bitters and how they fit into mixology… and in this case, most importantly, Mocktail Mixology. So, let’s get into it on this Just a Merry Mocktail Monday!
Firstly, Bitters are typically botanicals that are derived from herbs that give complexity to your libation and add a bit of “bitter”.
Now, how are bio-essences extracted? Well, alcohol. This is where it can get tricky in a NonAlc space. Everyone is on a different journey and for some, this may not be something they would be comfortable using in their ConMOCKtions. AND THAT’S OK!
It’s also totally ok if you wish to use them.
I don’t use the typical Angostura bitters that are behind every bar in the US. Their product has ADDED alcohol to it, and, for me, that’s unnecessary. There are many other options… and one of those options that I LOVE is the vast array of Bitters from the Fee Brothers. They have NO added alcohol to their product (except for some of their barrel-aged varietals). There may be trace alcohol from the extraction process but it’s not enough to have a warning label on their product. This is where things can get tricky and brings us to another discussion about trace alcohol. What is Trace Alcohol? What is it in? Can it be avoided? I would be very happy to open this up as a discussion.
With that said, I have heard of brands emerging that are trying to put out a completely alcohol-free product, but I haven’t used any.
I would genuinely like to know your thoughts on the subject.
Also, would you be interested in diving deeper into bitters?
Lastly, would you be interested in a Trace Alcohol discussion?
Let’s Chat!!
…
To Your Health!
Xoxo
-Nik
ICYMI – Previous Just a Merry Mocktail Monday mini-classes from Nik Popkow @Tonix.Mocktails – We Be Jammmin’!
- Bring on the sparkle! Class 101: Sparkling Waters
- Keep it glassy! Glassware
- Add some drama! The Dramatic Rim
- Ice Ice Baby! Unique Ice Cubes
- So romantic! Just a Merry Mocktail Monday Class 106: the romantic rose strawberry garnish
- Crème De Coconut – Take Your Tiki Mocktail Creations to a Tasty New Level
- Shake It! Shake It! Show us your shaker game!
- How Simple Is It? Homemade Syrup Vs Store Bought – You Decide!
- Mocktail Monday For All! Ready Made Mocktails
- No-Jito Mojito
- How to care for your at-home Alc-free bar goods!
- Level Up Your Mocktail Game – Just Add Fruit!
- Crushing it with Crushed Ice!
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
