Looking for bitter cocktails to make at home? The last few years have seen more and more of us enthusiastically embrace the punchy, grown up flavours of bitter cocktails, particularly when it comes to aperitif hour, as bitter flavours can help wake up the palate and stimulate the appetite. From a classic negroni to tangy tequila coolers, here are a few of our favourites. Next, try our Campari cocktail recipes.
Best bitter cocktails
Negroni
Its assertive bitterness and herbaceous kick isn’t for the fainthearted, but a well-made negroni is a thing of beauty. Top tip? Once you’ve added all the ingredients to the glass, stir well until the outside of the glass feels cold. This will give the drink smooth, silky texture.
Americano cocktail
This precursor to the negroni makes for a lighter, less boozy aperitif, with gentle bitterness.
Campari spritz
This recipe is perfect for those who prefer their spritzes with a little more backbone. Here, bittersweet Campari is the hero ingredient in this thirst-quenching aperitif.
White port and grapefruit cooler
This twist on a classic white port and tonic makes for a deliciously refreshing low-ABV drink with subtle bitter undertones.
Rose negroni sbagliato
We’ve swapped the gin for sparkling pink wine in this softer take on a negroni that still has a pleasing bitter kick.
Paloma
Think of this as a margarita’s softer, breezier cousin. Tart, bitter yet refreshing grapefruit and herbaceous tequila are lengthened with sparkling water for a cooling drink.
Gin & tonic
A classic for a reason – bitter tonic water and juniper-driven gin are a match made in heaven. Explore this guide to taking your G&T to the next level.
Blood orange margarita
Bitter blood oranges add a beautiful ruby red hue to a pitcher of margaritas. Remember to add a large pinch of hot chilli powder to really make this cocktail sing.
