Bitters

Bitters vs Extracts vs Tinctures

Bitters are essentially complex blends of multiple tinctures mixed to achieve a very specific recipe.  They act as the spice rack for bartenders.  They are added in tiny dashes to stimulate digestion, add aroma, and balance overly sweet cocktails.

Tinctures focus on a solitary flavor or a very basic combination (like chili-vanilla).  All bitters are tinctures, but not all tinctures are bitters.  In cocktails, they are used to highlight specific notes like cardamom, lavender, or hot pepper.  In wellness contexts, herbalists use tinctures to deliver highly bioavailable plant medicines directly.

Extracts are pure extractions of a single ingredient, meant to impart a specific taste without altering the profile.  In baking and mixology, they act as a straightforward flavor booster.