Angostura bitters

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Angostura bitters is a concentrated bitters (herbal alcoholic preparation) based on gentian, herbs, and spices, by House of Angostura in Trinidad and Tobago. It is typically used for flavoring beverages or food.

History

Angostura bitters was first produced in the town of Angostura, now known as Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela, by Dr. Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert, a German physician and surgeon in Simón Bolívar's army. Dr. Siegert began to sell it in 1824 as a remedy for stomach ailments.

Production

The exact formula for Angostura bitters is a closely guarded trade secret, known only to a few people. The ingredients include gentian root, various herbs, and spices. The bitters are produced by House of Angostura in Trinidad and Tobago.

Uses

Angostura bitters is a key ingredient in many cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Pink Gin. It is also used in cooking to add flavor to various dishes.

Packaging

Angostura bitters is known for its distinctive oversized label, which was the result of a labeling error that was never corrected. The bottle itself is small, typically 4 ounces (118 ml), and the label is much larger than the bottle.

Cultural Impact

Angostura bitters has become a staple in bars and kitchens around the world. It is often used as a digestif and is believed to have medicinal properties, although these claims are not scientifically proven.

See also

• Bitters
• Cocktail
• House of Angostura
• Old Fashioned
• Manhattan (cocktail)
• Pink Gin