I may have a bitter problem.

Erm, a problem with bitters.

I just can’t stop buying them.

It all started with a bottle of Angostura.  Then, I heard about Regan’s Orange Bitters… and bought a bottle of them.  Then Peychaud’s for Sazeracs.  Then Fee Brothers Peach.  Now I have about a dozen bottles (bought all over the country!) and still looking for more.  Last night, I picked up Bitter Truth Celery Bitters.  My favorite local store, The Party Source, just started carrying Bitter Truth, and I’m slowly buying my way through their collection.  I had to get the Celery Bitters.  They’ve been rated #1 by Saveur, won the Spirited Award from Tales of the Cocktail (where I tried them for the first time last year).   Who am I to disagree?

When rubbed between the hands (as is proper for bitters tasting, I hear), the scent is celery seed and a touch of lemon.  Taste is similar– heavy on the celery seed and lemon with a touch of alcohol.  The effect is altogether savory and not sweet at all, with just a touch of bitterness.  It’s really quite cool and different and not your grandpa’s bitters.  It might be your great grandpa’s though– celery bitters date back to the 1800s.

They’re fun– you can use them in a Bloody Mary or Bloody Caesar, as they have a citrusy, celery seed flavor to them– not at all like the bitters most are familiar with, Angostura, which is more clove and spice.  I could see these working very well in a proper Gin Martini or a gin and tonic.  It would be delightful in a Pimm’s Cup.  I definitely want to play around with them a bit more– they’ll make for a few refreshing spring and summer drinks.

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