Root Beer Bitters

Root Beer is not just for children. The earthy, spicy tones of sarsaparilla and ginger, the bitter bite of dandelion and the licorice flavor from star anise...oh, it’s a lovely blend, a lovely blend indeed. Sorry kids, this bourbon bitters blend is just for the grown ups. From The Seasonal Cocktail Companion: 100 Recipes and Projects for Four Seasons of Drinking.

NOTE: Your bitters must infuse for 1 week before bottling.

Directions

1) Combine ingredients in your vessel to steep

Combine the bourbon, vanilla, grated ginger, sarsaparilla and star anise in a large jar. Let the infusion steep for 1 week, shaking it several times daily.

2) Strain and cook

Strain the bourbon into a large clean jar and reserve the herbs and spices.

In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

Immediately reduce the eat to low and stir in the molasses. Add the reserved herbs and spices. Simmer until the liquid is reduced by half; remove from the heat.

3) Bottle and store

Let the mixture cool. Strain through a coffee filter into the bourbon.

Store in a sterilized, airtight jar, or funnel into a sanitized bitters bottle. The bitters can be stored at room temperature. Shake before using, as the molasses may settle.

Over to You

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