As the saying goes, you only ever need one bottle of bitters per marriage. If that's true, Fee Brothers has been promoting the divorce rate for four generations and the recipes of its house bitters are closely guarded secrets. Bitters are, as their name suggests, a bitter or bittersweet type of spirit made from different herbs, roots and plants. Bitters are used to flavour and add a dry zest to cocktails and cooking. Because of their function as a digestive aid and appetite stimulant bitters are often used in before and after dinner cocktails (aperitifs and digestifs). Four of their bitters are available on the New Zealand market: old-fashioned Aromatic Bitters, Peach Bitters, Mint Bitters, and Orange Bitters. The old-fashioned is used the same way as any Classic bitters.
(Mint Bitters) - The fresh taste of mint when you don't have mint leaves handy. Great in a Mint Julep or a Mojito. (Peach Bitters) - Another long lost cocktail ingredient enjoying new interest. Try Peach Bitters in a Coronation or a Xeres. Your drinks will be unique. (Old Fashion Bitters) - The classic Bitters used in every bar. A necessary ingredient in a Manhattan or a Planter's Punch and so many more drinks. (Orange Bitters) - This old cocktail ingredient went unnoticed for years, until recently. A new interest in classic cocktails has brought it out of retirement. There are many recipes that call for Orange Bitters, but of most note is the "Classic" Martini. Try a dash in your next Martini and you will never want one without Orange Bitters again.
