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. Dispensed in drops and dashes, Bob has found a way to harness all of the beans' flavour.

As the killjoy authorities in America have banned the use of these flavoursome beans because they contain coumarin, a chemical that can be toxic when consumed in large quantities, Bob is currently working on a Tonka Bitters for the American market – watch this space.

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.