Tag: Non alcoholic bitters

While most cocktail bitters, including many lemon varieties, contain a relatively high alcohol percentage—often in the range of 35% to 45% ABV—the amount of alcohol contributed to a single drink is considered insignificant. This fact often surprises new mixologists, who may not realize that a few dashes of lemon bitters in a cocktail or mocktail will not significantly impact its final alcohol content.

Bitters have been used as a medicinal tonic since at least the early 19th century. The seemingly contradictory truth about this cocktail ingredient is that while most traditional bitters are made with a high-proof alcohol base, they are not typically considered an alcoholic beverage due to the small quantity used. This article breaks down the technical and practical answer to the question: Are bitters considered alcoholic?