Cherry & Vanilla Bitters

Cherry & Vanilla Bitters Flavor Profiles

Middleton's Cherry & Vanilla Bitters delivers a complex blend of sweet cherry and warm vanilla notes. The fruity brightness balances perfectly with the mellow vanilla undertones. Subtle hints of star anise add depth and a slight licorice finish that lingers pleasantly. This versatile flavor profile works exceptionally well in both spirit-forward cocktails and lighter refreshments.

Signature Cocktail Recipes

Transform your home bar experience with these specially crafted cocktail recipes featuring our Cherry & Vanilla Bitters.

• Cherry Vanilla Old Fashioned
  • Preparation time: 3 minutes
  • Glassware: Rocks glass
  • Ingredients: 2oz bourbon, 1/4oz simple syrup, 4 dashes Cherry & Vanilla Bitters
  • Garnish: Orange peel and luxardo cherry
  • Batching: Multiply ingredients by guest count, store in bottle, and pour over fresh ice
• Cherry Manhattan
  • Preparation time: 4 minutes
  • Glassware: Coupe or martini glass
  • Ingredients: 2oz rye whiskey, 1oz sweet vermouth, 3 dashes Cherry & Vanilla Bitters
  • Garnish: Brandied cherry
  • Batching: Pre-mix and refrigerate up to 3 days, stir with ice before serving

Mocktail Applications

Middleton's Cherry & Vanilla Bitters adds complexity and depth to alcohol-free beverages. Combine with premium tonic water for a sophisticated aperitif, or mix with elderflower tonic for a floral twist. These bitters blend beautifully with black tea or rooibos infusions. For juice combinations, try cherry bitters with apple, cranberry, or pomegranate juice. Pair with non-alcoholic spirits like Seedlip Spice or Lyre's American Malt. For kid-friendly options, add 1-2 dashes to lemonade or sparkling apple juice. Balance sweetness with a splash of citrus to complement the bitters' complexity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Enhance your dining experience with these perfect food pairings for Cherry & Vanilla Bitters:

• Appetizers: Aged cheddar, prosciutto-wrapped dates, duck pâté
• Desserts: A few drops on vanilla ice cream creates a sophisticated dessert experience, chocolate mousse, cheesecake
• Cheese Board: Brie, aged gouda, manchego
• Complementary Cuisines: French, Italian, American BBQ
• Seasonal Pairings: Summer berries, fall apple dishes, winter chocolate desserts
• Sauce Recipe: Cherry reduction with 1/2 teaspoon bitters for duck or pork

Cherry & Vanilla Bitters Mixology Tips

Master the art of using our Cherry & Vanilla Bitters with these professional techniques:

• Technique: Stir rather than shake when using in spirit-forward drinks like Manhattans or Old Fashioneds
• Dilution: Start with 2-3 dashes and adjust to taste
• Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon to 750ml bourbon for a cherry-infused spirit
• Visual Appeal: Float a few drops on top of egg white cocktails for decorative patterns
• Garnish: Express orange peel over cocktail to complement the cherry notes
• Ice: Large, clear ice cubes melt slower and maintain flavor integrity
• Tools: Dasher bottle control, bar spoon for proper stirring, jigger for measurement

Seasonal Applications

Cherry & Vanilla Bitters adapts beautifully throughout the year. During winter holidays, add to mulled wine or hot toddies with cinnamon sticks. For Christmas gatherings, create festive cranberry spritzers with a few dashes. In summer, enhance fruit-forward cocktails with fresh berries and citrus. Spring calls for cherry blossom-inspired drinks with floral notes. Fall harvest celebrations benefit from apple cider with Cherry & Vanilla Bitters. For weddings, create signature drinks featuring these bitters with champagne and a floating rose petal.

Cherry & Vanilla Bitters Perfect Pairings

Discover ideal spirit companions for our Cherry & Vanilla Bitters:

• Recommended Brands: Bulleit Bourbon, Maker's Mark, Woodford Reserve
• Complementary Bitters: Pair with our Orange Bitters for a complex Old Fashioned
• Classic Cocktails: Manhattan, Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, Martinez
• Alberta Spirits: Park Distillery Rye, Eau Claire Distillery Gin
• International Combinations: Japanese whisky, aged rum, cognac
• Wine Pairings: Port, sweet vermouth, or mulled wine recipes

Culinary Uses Beyond Drinks

Cherry & Vanilla Bitters extends beyond the bar into your kitchen:

• Baking: Add 1/2 teaspoon to chocolate cake batter or brownie mix
• Salad Dressing: Whisk 3 dashes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey
• Marinade: Combine 1 tablespoon with soy sauce, garlic, and honey for pork or duck
• Sauce Enhancement: Add 1/4 teaspoon to chocolate sauce or caramel
• Preserves: Stir 1 teaspoon into cherry jam while cooking
• Desserts: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or incorporate into whipped cream
• Pickling: Add 1 teaspoon to pickled cherries brine for complexity