Bark & Bitter - Boker’s Best Cardamom Bitters

The Mood

Refined, aromatic, and quietly powerful. This is depth without heaviness — warm spice, citrus lift, and classic cocktail confidence.

The Taste

Predominant notes of fragrant cardamom and clove lead, brightened by fresh lemon peel. Bitter orange and layered botanicals follow, delivering structure, balance, and a long, elegant finish.

The Story

Boker’s Best Cardamom Bitters marks the first permanent addition to the Bark & Bitter lineup in over two years — and a meaningful one. Inspired by Boker’s (also known as Bogart’s) Bitters, widely considered the original bitters formulation and famously referenced in Jerry Thomas’ Bon Vivant’s Companion (1862), this release pays homage to the foundation of classic cocktail culture.

True to Bark & Bitter’s modern, bartender-first approach, the recipe thoughtfully evolves the historic profile by amplifying fresh lemon peel, adding brightness and lift that perfectly complements cardamom’s warm aromatics. Crafted in their new Niagara Falls production space, this release completes the classic bitters “holy trinity” — and then some.

The Ritual

Use sparingly but intentionally. Ideal for Martinis, Old Fashioneds, Champagne cocktails, or anywhere warm spice and citrus clarity elevate the drink. A few dashes go a long way.

Fizz Notes

Historic inspiration, modern execution. Bright citrus lift. A foundational bitters for serious cocktail building.

Vegetable glycerine, distilled water, cardamom, clove, lemon peel, bitter orange peel, quassia bark, star anise, angelica root, catechu bark.

Cardamom, clove, lemon peel, bitter orange, warm spice, clean bitter finish.