In the world of cocktails, the Trinidad Sour is a standout. Its daring use of Angostura bitters as the main spirit sets it apart, challenging traditional notions of what makes a drink work. Invented in 2009 by bartender Giuseppe Gonzalez, this unconventional cocktail has become a modern classic, loved for its complexity and audacious profile. In this article, we’ll explore the story of Angostura bitters, delve into the creation of the Trinidad Sour, and share the recipe for you to recreate at home.
The Story of Angostura Bitters
Angostura bitters are the cornerstone of the Trinidad Sour, so understanding their origin is key to appreciating this cocktail. Created in 1824 by Dr. Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert, a German surgeon serving in the Venezuelan military, Angostura bitters were originally developed as a medicinal tonic. Dr. Siegert was stationed in the town of Angostura (modern-day Ciudad Bolívar), where he began experimenting with local herbs and botanicals to create a remedy for stomach ailments.
After refining his recipe, Siegert’s bitters gained popularity not just for their medicinal properties but also for their ability to enhance the flavor of cocktails. The company eventually relocated to Trinidad and Tobago, cementing its association with the island. Today, Angostura bitters are an essential ingredient in countless classic cocktails, from the Old Fashioned to the Manhattan, and they hold a revered place in the world of mixology.
The Birth of the Trinidad Sour
Fast forward to 2009, when Giuseppe Gonzalez, a New York City bartender, turned the cocktail world on its head. Traditionally, Angostura bitters were used sparingly—a dash or two at most—to add depth and balance. Gonzalez, however, took a bold step: he made Angostura the star of the show. By using a full 1½ ounces of bitters in his recipe, he created a drink that showcased its rich, spicy, and aromatic profile in an entirely new way.
The Trinidad Sour is a prime example of innovation in mixology. It challenges conventions while delivering an unexpectedly harmonious balance of flavors. The key is its careful combination of strong, bitter, and sweet elements, all working together to create a drink that’s both complex and approachable.
The Recipe: How to Make the Trinidad Sour
Recreating the Trinidad Sour at home is surprisingly simple, provided you have the right ingredients. Here’s the recipe:
Tools:
Boston shaker
Strainer
Double strainer
Jigger
Knife
Chopping board
Ingredients:
1½ oz (45 ml) Angostura bitters
¾ oz (22.5 ml) Rye whiskey
1 oz (30 ml) Orgeat syrup
½ oz (15 ml) Fresh lemon juice
Procedure:
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously until well chilled.
Double strain into a coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
Optionally, garnish with a thin lemon wheel or a small sprig of mint for visual flair.
The resulting drink is a deep reddish-brown hue, its aroma bursting with the signature spicy and herbal notes of Angostura bitters. The sweetness of the orgeat syrup and the tartness of the lemon juice work in tandem to tame the intensity of the bitters, while the rye whiskey provides warmth and depth.
Why the Trinidad Sour Stands Out
The Trinidad Sour is not for the faint of heart—it’s a cocktail that rewards the adventurous. The high concentration of Angostura bitters provides a unique flavor profile, dominated by spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, along with subtle hints of cardamom and gentian. These flavors are beautifully complemented by the almond-rich orgeat, making the drink both bitter and sweet, with a citrusy brightness cutting through the richness.
Tips for Mastering the Trinidad Sour
Choose Quality Ingredients: The bitters and orgeat are the stars here, so invest in high-quality products. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable for the best balance.
Measure Precisely: The unique balance of the Trinidad Sour relies on exact measurements. A bar spoon’s worth of deviation can shift the drink’s profile.
Experiment with Presentation: While the drink is visually striking on its own, garnishing it with creativity can add an extra layer of appeal.
Conclusion
The Trinidad Sour is a cocktail for those who dare to explore the boundaries of flavor. Its bold use of Angostura bitters transforms a simple concoction into an experience, appealing to cocktail lovers who value innovation and complexity. Whether you’re a professional mixologist or an adventurous home bartender, this drink deserves a spot in your repertoire. So gather your ingredients, mix up a Trinidad Sour, and savor the story and flavors of this modern masterpiece.
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