Anyone who has ever enjoyed or made a cocktail probably knows the impact that bitters can have on a drink’s balance and complexity.
What in the world are bitters?
Simply put, bitters are spirits that have been mixed or infused with spices and herbs, designed to create a new flavor profile that enhances a cocktail. Ingredients include some kind of neutral alcohol, combined with a variety of fruits, spices, botanicals, herbs and more. If you have ever made an old fashioned or a Manhattan, you are probably familiar with Angostura bitters. Peychaud’s is another popular style. But bitters come in many styles.
Bitters have a little alcohol…so what?
People choose not to drink for a number of reasons; maybe they prioritize fitness as a lifestyle, don’t enjoy the hangover and sleep deprivation after a night out, or simply choose not to drink for personal or moral reasons. Fortunately, Ritual Zero Proof makes premium non-alcoholic spirits that allow people to enjoy their favorite drinks without the negative side effects of alcohol.
A neutral alcohol is one of the key ingredients in almost any kind of bitters. But for those who don’t drink – like, not even a drop – it can be difficult to make 100% non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails that utilize bitters.
Enter glycerin-based bitters…
There are a few options out on the market, but the best alternatives in our opinion are glycerin-based bitters. Glycerin is basically a kind of carbohydrate known as polyol, which naturally occurs in fermented foods and drinks (think naturally sweet like honey). By using glycerin and other botanicals as a base combined with Ritual Zero Proof liquor alternative, one can enhance the flavors of their cocktails the way they might with traditional bitters, but with absolutely zero compromise and zero alcohol.
Can I make my own alcohol-free bitters at home?
Of course! Our blog features an article about making your own bitters at home, but for those who prefer their bitters with absolutely zero alcohol, you will want to defer to the internet as a resource. You will need to consider the kinds of drinks you would like to make, which Ritual alternative you will need, what flavor profiles you would like to enjoy, and then acquire the necessary ingredients. YouTube is an excellent resource, and a quick Google search can help you match the right plants with the right sugars to get your recipe just right.
I have my NA bitters…now what?
Now you get mixing! Grab your favorite bottle of Ritual, grab your bitters and garnishes, and start crafting your very own signature cocktail. Much like food, drink is meant to be experimented with, exploring a wide variety of flavor profiles until you find something you enjoy. If you’re looking for a great place to get started, head over to our cocktail page and check out some great recipes to get you started!
Remember, you will need a zero proof alcohol to accompany your alcohol-free bitters. Ritual Zero Proof spirit alternatives utilize premium botanicals to replicate the flavors, smells, and even bite of your favorite spirits. Whether you live an active lifestyle and prefer not to miss a day of training or abstain for other reasons, Ritual will help you enjoy your favorite cocktails.
