4 Best Bitters for an Old Fashioned

Whether you’re keeping it classic or switching things up, the right bitters can make or break a drink. And while there’s no wrong way to enjoy an Old Fashioned, knowing what to look for makes all the difference.

Here’s everything you need to know:

WHAT ARE BITTERS? 

Bitters are concentrated botanical extracts (made from herbs, spices, fruit peels and roots) used to add complexity to cocktails. Think of them like seasoning for your drink—just a dash can completely transform the flavour.

When it comes to whisky, bitters bring out the spirit’s natural depth. They’re an essential part of classic cocktails like the Sazerac, Rob Roy and the classic duo, Whisky & Bitters–-essentially an Old Fashioned without the sweetness. 

For an Old Fashioned, the key is finding the right balance—something that complements the whisky without overpowering it. Citrus, spice and chocolate bitters are all solid options, depending on the flavours you want to enhance. Here’s a few of our favourites.

The best bitters for an Old Fashioned

Angostura Bitters

The OG bitters. If you’ve ever had an Old Fashioned, chances are it was made with Angostura. These bitters bring a warm, spicy depth with notes of clove, cinnamon and gentian root. Classic, reliable and a must-have for any home bar.

Peychaud’s Bitters

A little lighter and more floral than Angostura, Peychaud’s is known for its bright anise and cherry notes. Originally created for the Sazerac, it works surprisingly well in an Old Fashioned if you want something a little more aromatic and subtly sweet.

Orange Bitters

Want to highlight the citrus notes in your whisky? Orange bitters are the way to go. They add a zesty, slightly bitter edge that lifts the drink without taking over. We use them in our Orange Twist, a citrusy variation on the classic Old Fashioned that pairs with the rich vanilla notes of Ballantine’s 23 Year Old.

Chocolate Bitters

Rich, dark and slightly smoky, chocolate bitters give an Old Fashioned a whole new vibe. They enhance the caramel and vanilla notes in whisky, making for a deeper, more indulgent drink. Perfect for when you want something a little different without straying too far from the classic.

Mix it up with Ballantine’s

There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy an Old Fashioned. Want a bit more spice? Go heavy on the Angostura. Looking for something brighter? Try orange bitters. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a mix of different bitters can take your drink to a whole new level. 

Experiment, taste and find what works for you—because at the end of the day, the best Old Fashioned is the one you actually enjoy.