Angostura

Angostura is a Trinidad-based company that has been producing aromatic bitters since the 19th century. Originally developed as a medicinal tonic by German doctor Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert in the Venezuelan town of Angostura (now Ciudad Bolívar), the company later relocated its operations to Trinidad. Today, Angostura remains one of the most recognizable names in the bitters category, with their products serving as essential ingredients in classic cocktails worldwide.

The company's bitters are characterized by their complex botanical formulations, which remain closely guarded trade secrets. Angostura bitters are made through a process of macerating various herbs, spices, and botanicals in high-proof alcohol, creating concentrated flavor extracts that add depth and complexity to cocktails. The signature oversized label on their aromatic bitters bottles, which extends beyond the bottle's height, has become an iconic design element that originated from a labeling mishap in the company's early days.

Angostura's core range includes their flagship Aromatic Bitters, which features a blend of herbs and spices that provides the backbone for countless classic cocktails including the Manhattan and Old Fashioned. Their Orange Bitters offers citrus-forward notes that complement whiskey and rum-based drinks, while their Cocoa Bitters introduces chocolate and spice elements that pair particularly well with aged spirits and dessert cocktails.