Bob's Tonka Bitters

Product of: United Kingdom

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These bitters harness the aromatic and complex flavours of the tonka bean, the seed of a South American Dipteryx odorata tree, long prized by pastry chefs and perfumers for combining notes of vanilla, almond, and cinnamon.

Bob, of Bob's Bitters fame, was a pastry chef so very aware of the qualities of this legendary bean. However, the killjoy authorities in America have banned the use of these flavoursome beans due to their containing coumarin, a chemical that can be toxic when consumed in large quantities. Not only are these bitters only used in drops and dashes, but clever Bob has found a way to harness all of the beans' favour without the toxins.

Ingredients
Water, alcohol, natural flavours.
May contain traces of gluten, tree nuts and/or liquorice.

Review and Tasting

Sampled on 03/11/2025

Appearance:

Clear, golden amber.

Aroma:

Toasted almond, vanilla, cinnamon, moist battenberg cake, black cherry, praline and tobacco leaf.

Taste:

Starts with rich amaretto-like toasted almond and quickly develops with vanilla, cinnamon, allspice and praline. Then, the bitter notes add a layer of adult complexity.

Aftertaste:

Lemony notes emerge in the long, lightly bitter, almond and praline finish.

Overall:

Delicious and versatile! Great in nearly any cocktail based on a dark spirit, as well as in many others based on light spirits. Literally from Manhattans to Martinis.