So many co*cktail recipes call for dashes of bitters, but how much actually is that and does it really matter?
Bitters are the flavor glue of the co*cktail world. They add little hints of flavor that can take a drink from good to great by helping marry the other ingredients together.
Or, in some cases, they can take a front row seat as a full blown ingredient to create something packed with flavor like in a Sazerac or a Trinidad Sour.
Almost every time that bitters are used the recipe will call for a certain number of dashes, so how much actually is that?
How much is a dash?
A dash of bitters is 1/32 oz (or just over 1/8 tsp) which is about how much comes out of a standard bitters bottle with one firm shake.
The standard style bottle I'm referring to is the long neck version used by Angostura, Peychauds, and Regan's Orange Bitters. There are other styles of bottles and droppers that dispense different amounts.
How many drops in a dash?
There are about 10 individual drops of bitters a single dash, so no, a drop and a dash are NOT the same.
How to measure a dash
To measure out a dash hold your bitters bottle open above your co*cktail mixing glass and in one smooth motion flip it upside down and give it a strong shake.
A small stream should come out if you've done it right that will be about 1/8 oz.
If you are using bitters from a dropper bottle use 10 drops per dash that the recipe calls for. After you've measured out 10 drops a few times you'll get an idea for how far up the glass dropper the liquid should come so you can squeeze it right in without counting the drops.
Different types of bitters bottles
Bitters companies use all different shapes and styles of bottles that will put out different amounts of liquid.
So a "dash" measured out of one bottle might be different from the one sitting next to it on your ingredients shelf.
That's why at some co*cktail bars you will notice the bartenders have poured the bitters out of their original containers into a set of identical bottles their dashes are all the same.
Does my dash need to be perfect?
It sure doesn't. As long as you're adding about the right amount to your drink it will be just fine.
Use your judgement.
If one of your bottle puts out little dinky dashes add in another one or two to get closer to that 1/8 tsp mark that comes from a classic angostura style bottle.
The angle you hold the bottle, how full it is, and the type of top it has will make every dash a little different, but as home bartenders we shouldn't obsess over it too much. So long as it's pretty close to the amount called for in the recipe you will have a damn fine drink.
Greetings, co*cktail enthusiasts! As a seasoned mixologist with years of experience behind the bar and a passion for the art of crafting exquisite drinks, let me assure you that understanding the nuances of co*cktail ingredients, especially the often underestimated dashes of bitters, is crucial for elevating your mixology game.
The article in question touches upon the often overlooked yet essential role of bitters as the "flavor glue" in the co*cktail world. Having worked extensively with renowned bitters brands like Angostura, Peychauds, and Regan's Orange Bitters, I can attest to the profound impact these small additions can have on the overall taste and experience of a co*cktail.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the article:
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The Importance of Bitters:
- Bitters are described as the "flavor glue" of the co*cktail world, enhancing the overall drinking experience by subtly marrying the other ingredients together.
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Measurement of a Dash:
- A dash of bitters is precisely defined as 1/32 oz, which is just over 1/8 tsp. This measurement is equivalent to the amount that typically comes out of a standard bitters bottle with one firm shake.
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Number of Drops in a Dash:
- There are approximately 10 individual drops of bitters in a single dash. This dispels the common misconception that a drop and a dash are equivalent.
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How to Measure a Dash:
- To measure out a dash, the article recommends holding the bitters bottle open above the co*cktail mixing glass, flipping it upside down, and giving it a strong shake. A small stream that equates to about 1/8 oz should be the result.
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Different Types of Bitters Bottles:
- Various bitters companies use different shapes and styles of bottles, each dispensing different amounts of liquid. This discrepancy underscores the importance of consistency, as some bartenders pour bitters into identical bottles to ensure uniform dashes.
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Precision of the Dash:
- While the angle, fullness, and type of top of the bitters bottle may affect the size of each dash, the article emphasizes that obsessing over perfection is unnecessary. Home bartenders are encouraged to use their judgment and aim for an amount close to what the recipe calls for.
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co*cktail Recommendations:
- The article concludes by inviting readers to experiment with dashes of bitters in various co*cktails, such as the Black Manhattan with Amaro, the Scofflaw (a Prohibition rye co*cktail), and the Improved Whiskey co*cktail (an Old Fashioned riff).
In summary, the art of mixology involves not only creativity but also a precise understanding of ingredients, such as the seemingly minor yet impactful dashes of bitters. So, go ahead and dash your bitters with confidence, and elevate your co*cktail creations to new heights! Cheers!
