Ingredients:

  • 200 ml High-proof spirit (vodka or grain alcohol, 40-50% ABV)
  • 50 ml Bourbon, Brandy, or Rye Whiskey (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons Dried gentian root (approximately 10g)
  • 1 tablespoon Dried wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) (approximately 5g)
  • 1 teaspoon Dried orange peel (approximately 3g)
  • 1 teaspoon Dried lemon peel (approximately 3g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Coriander seeds (approximately 1.5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom pods, crushed (approximately 1.5g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Allspice berries (approximately 0.75g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cloves (approximately 0.75g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black peppercorns (approximately 0.75g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dried chamomile flowers (approximately 0.75g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Anise seeds (approximately 0.75g)
  • A small piece of cinnamon stick (approximately 2.5 cm)
  • 1-2 tablespoons Simple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Roughly crush or break larger botanicals to increase surface area.
  2. Combine gentian root and wormwood with half of the base spirit in a jar. Seal and shake gently.
  3. Combine the remaining botanicals with the other half of the base spirit in a separate jar. Seal and shake gently.
  4. Store both jars in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake gently every few days.
  5. After the infusion period, strain each mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, discarding the solids. Combine the two strained infusions.
  6. Taste the bitters. If desired, add simple syrup or honey, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired sweetness is achieved.
  7. Return the combined bitters to a clean jar or bottle. Let them rest for another week or two.
  8. Once you're satisfied with the flavor, bottle the bitters in dark glass bottles. Label with the date and ingredients.