Introduction
Jerry Thomas, often hailed as the father of American mixology, left an indelible mark on the world of cocktails with his innovative recipes and flair for the dramatic. Among his many contributions, Jerry Thomas' Own Decanter Bitters stands out as a testament to his genius. This bitters recipe, known for its rich and complex flavor profile, has been a staple in bars since the 19th century, adding depth and character to countless cocktails.
The history of bitters dates back to the early apothecaries where they were originally used for medicinal purposes. Jerry Thomas, with his keen understanding of flavors, transformed bitters into an essential cocktail ingredient, elevating drinks with his unique blends. His Own Decanter Bitters is a perfect example, combining aromatic spices and citrus for a timeless concoction.
Did you know that Jerry Thomas was not just a bartender but also a showman? He was known for his theatrical flair, often tossing flaming drinks in the air to the delight of his patrons. His legacy lives on, not only through his showmanship but also through his enduring recipes like the Decanter Bitters, which continue to inspire mixologists today.
Ingredients
To make Jerry Thomas' Own Decanter Bitters, gather the following ingredients, each contributing to the bitters' distinctive flavor profile:
- 0.25 pound Raisins: Raisins add a natural sweetness and depth to the bitters.
- 2 oz Cinnamon: Cinnamon brings warmth and spice, complementing the other ingredients.
- 1 oz Snake-Root: Snake-root, a lesser-known ingredient, adds an earthy, herbal note.
- 1 Lemon: Lemon slices provide a bright, citrusy contrast.
- 1 Orange: Orange slices enhance the citrus profile with a sweet, tangy note.
- 1 oz Cloves: Cloves contribute a warm, aromatic spice that rounds out the flavor.
- 1 oz Allspice: Allspice offers a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, enhancing the complexity.
- Rum: Santa Cruz Rum serves as the base, infusing the mixture with rich, tropical notes.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Jerry Thomas' Own Decanter Bitters:
- Cut the lemon and orange into slices.
- Fill a decanter with the ingredients and top with Santa Cruz rum.
- As the bitters is used, refill with rum.
Tips
- Ensure all the ingredients are fresh to maximize flavor extraction.
- Use a high-quality Santa Cruz Rum to achieve the best results.
- Allow the bitters to steep for several weeks, shaking occasionally, to develop a full-bodied flavor.
- Store the decanter in a cool, dark place to preserve the bitters' integrity.
- Experiment with the proportions to suit your taste preferences, as bitters can be highly personal.
Conclusion
Jerry Thomas' Own Decanter Bitters is more than just a recipe; it's a piece of cocktail history that embodies the creativity and passion of one of the most influential bartenders of all time. Crafting your own bitters at home allows you to connect with that legacy and bring a touch of the past into your modern mixology endeavors.
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Jerry Thomas' Own Decanter Bitters recipe adapted from Jerry Thomas' Bartenders Guide by Jerry Thomas.
