Orange Bitters Guide: Brands, Cocktails and Substitutes

Orange bitters are a concentrated flavoring made by infusing dried orange peel, spices, and bittering agents like gentian root in high-proof alcohol. They are used by the dash in cocktails to add citrus complexity and aromatic depth. Unlike orange liqueurs, they are intensely flavored and used in very small quantities.

Orange bitters are essential in the Dry Martini, where they bridge the gap between gin and vermouth. They also appear in the Whiskey Sour, the Improved Whiskey Cocktail, the Bronx, and many gin-based drinks. A few dashes of orange bitters give a plain gin and tonic a citrus-and-spice top note it does not otherwise have.

Regans' Orange Bitters No. 6 is cardamom-forward with intense citrus peel character. Angostura Orange is sweeter and more approachable. The Bitter Truth Orange has a clean, European-style citrus profile. Scrappy's Orange is organic with fresh zest character. Fee Brothers Orange has lower alcohol and a gentler flavor.

In a pinch, a few drops of orange extract mixed with Angostura aromatic bitters will stand in. Another option is a small piece of expressed orange peel muddled into the drink. However, nothing truly replicates the complexity of dedicated orange bitters, so keeping a bottle on hand is worthwhile since it lasts for years.

Orange bitters are shelf-stable and essentially do not expire. The high alcohol content preserves the botanicals indefinitely. An opened bottle kept at room temperature away from direct sunlight will maintain its flavor for many years. There is no need to refrigerate them.