Angostura Bitters is a staple in many bars and home cocktail enthusiasts’ collections. The distinctive bottle with its oversized label and mysterious blend of herbs and spices has been a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan for over a century. However, storing Angostura Bitters requires some care to preserve its unique flavor and aroma. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to store Angostura Bitters and why proper storage is essential for maintaining its quality.
Understanding Angostura Bitters
Before we dive into storage, let’s take a brief look at what makes Angostura Bitters so special. Angostura Bitters is a concentrated flavoring made from a secret blend of herbs, roots, and spices. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it’s known to contain ingredients like gentian, orange peel, and cinnamon. The bitters are aged for several years in oak barrels, which adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
The Importance of Storage
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and flavor of Angostura Bitters. Like any other concentrated flavoring, Angostura Bitters can be affected by light, heat, and oxygen, which can cause the flavors to degrade over time. If not stored correctly, Angostura Bitters can become stale, flat, or even develop off-flavors.
Light and Heat
Light and heat are two of the biggest enemies of Angostura Bitters. Direct sunlight can cause the flavors to fade, while heat can cause the bitters to evaporate or become bitter. It’s essential to store Angostura Bitters in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Oxygen
Oxygen can also affect the flavor of Angostura Bitters. When exposed to air, the bitters can oxidize, which can cause the flavors to become stale or flat. To minimize oxidation, it’s best to store Angostura Bitters in a tightly sealed bottle.
Storage Options
So, where should you store Angostura Bitters? Here are a few options:
Original Bottle
The original bottle is the best place to store Angostura Bitters. The bottle is designed to protect the bitters from light and oxygen, and the tight-fitting lid helps to prevent evaporation. If you’re not planning to use the bitters immediately, it’s best to leave them in the original bottle.
Dark Cupboard or Pantry
If you need to store Angostura Bitters for an extended period, a dark cupboard or pantry is a good option. Look for a spot that is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the cupboard or pantry is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.
Refrigerator
Some people recommend storing Angostura Bitters in the refrigerator to slow down the aging process. However, this is not necessary, and the bitters can be stored at room temperature. If you do choose to store Angostura Bitters in the refrigerator, make sure to keep them away from strong-smelling foods, as the bitters can absorb odors easily.
Freezer
Freezing Angostura Bitters is not recommended. Freezing can cause the flavors to become muted, and the bitters may not return to their original flavor and aroma when thawed.
Best Practices
To ensure the quality and flavor of Angostura Bitters, follow these best practices:
Keep the Bottle Tightly Sealed
Always keep the bottle tightly sealed when not in use. This will prevent oxidation and evaporation.
Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Store Angostura Bitters in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Use a Clean Pourer or Jigger
When pouring Angostura Bitters, use a clean pourer or jigger to prevent contamination.
Don’t Over-Handle the Bottle
Try not to handle the bottle excessively, as the oils from your skin can affect the flavor of the bitters.
Conclusion
Storing Angostura Bitters requires some care, but with the right techniques, you can preserve its unique flavor and aroma. By storing Angostura Bitters in a cool, dark place, keeping the bottle tightly sealed, and following best practices, you can enjoy this iconic ingredient in your cocktails for years to come.
| Storage Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Original Bottle | Protects from light and oxygen, convenient | May not be suitable for long-term storage |
| Dark Cupboard or Pantry | Protects from light, cool and dry | May not be suitable for humid climates |
| Refrigerator | Slows down aging process, convenient | May absorb odors from other foods |
| Freezer | None | Can cause flavors to become muted, not recommended |
By following these guidelines and best practices, you can ensure that your Angostura Bitters remain fresh and flavorful for a long time. Whether you’re a professional bartender or a home cocktail enthusiast, proper storage is essential for getting the most out of this iconic ingredient.
What is the ideal storage location for Angostura Bitters?
The ideal storage location for Angostura Bitters is in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This is because light and heat can cause the flavors and aromas of the bitters to degrade over time, resulting in a less potent and less flavorful product.
A cupboard or pantry in a cool, dark area of the kitchen is a good storage location for Angostura Bitters. You can also store it in a drawer or on a shelf, as long as it is away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing it near the stove, oven, or other heat-producing appliances.
Can I store Angostura Bitters in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can store Angostura Bitters in the refrigerator, but it is not necessary. The bitters will keep for a long time at room temperature, as long as it is stored in a cool, dark place. However, if you live in a hot and humid climate, storing it in the refrigerator may help to preserve the flavors and aromas.
Storing Angostura Bitters in the refrigerator will not affect its flavor or potency, but it may cause the bitters to become cloudy or develop a sediment. This is a normal process and does not affect the quality of the bitters. Simply shake the bottle well before using it to mix the sediment back into the liquid.
How long does Angostura Bitters last?
Angostura Bitters is a highly concentrated flavoring agent that can last for a long time if stored properly. The exact shelf life of Angostura Bitters depends on various factors, including the storage conditions and how well the bottle is sealed.
Generally, Angostura Bitters can last for 5 to 7 years or more if stored in a cool, dark place. However, it is best to use it within 2 to 3 years for optimal flavor and potency. If you notice any changes in the flavor, aroma, or appearance of the bitters, it is best to replace it with a fresh bottle.
Can I store Angostura Bitters in the freezer?
No, it is not recommended to store Angostura Bitters in the freezer. Freezing temperatures can cause the bitters to become cloudy or develop a sediment, which may affect its flavor and potency.
Additionally, freezing can cause the bottle to become brittle and prone to cracking, which can lead to leakage and contamination. If you need to store Angostura Bitters for an extended period, it is best to store it in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator.
Can I store Angostura Bitters near other spices and herbs?
Yes, you can store Angostura Bitters near other spices and herbs, but it is best to keep it away from strong-smelling ingredients. Angostura Bitters has a strong, pungent flavor that can be affected by nearby spices and herbs.
If you store Angostura Bitters near strong-smelling ingredients, it may absorb their flavors and aromas, which can affect its potency and flavor. It is best to store it in a separate area or container to preserve its flavor and aroma.
Can I store Angostura Bitters in a decanter or glass bottle?
No, it is not recommended to store Angostura Bitters in a decanter or glass bottle. Angostura Bitters is a highly concentrated flavoring agent that can react with certain materials, including glass and ceramics.
The original bottle that Angostura Bitters comes in is designed to preserve its flavor and potency. If you transfer it to a decanter or glass bottle, it may react with the material and affect its flavor and potency. It is best to store it in the original bottle to preserve its quality.
How should I handle Angostura Bitters after opening?
After opening Angostura Bitters, it is best to store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You should also make sure to tightly seal the bottle after each use to prevent air from entering the bottle.
If you notice any changes in the flavor, aroma, or appearance of the bitters after opening, it is best to replace it with a fresh bottle. You can also check the expiration date or the “best by” date on the label to determine if it is still good to use.