Country of origin:   Scotland          Alcohol content: 38% Alcohol by Volume

A limited edition bottling reformulated in 2010; Spanish Bitters are a unique,  hand-crafted cocktail ingredient by Adam Elmegirab, released later that same year to satisfy the demands of the global bar community. During the mid-1800s Gainer’s Spanish Bitters were celebrated for their alleged medicinal properties and in particular were noted for their complex flavour profile that included layers of chamomile, citrus, spice, violet and berries.  Using knowledge of patent bitters and referencing old formulae, medical journals and advertisements, these bitters now attempt to recreate the defunct bottling.

Compounded using the finest natuSee below.ral botanicals, these bitters are now sought after by bartenders around the globe to be used in a number of classic cocktails and original libations such as the Union Flip, created by Adam Elmegirab for the Licor 43 competition in July 2010.  

Made with Overproof spirit and eight botanicals including chamomile, orange peel, lemon peel, coriander seed and orris root. Maceration - Eight botanicals macerated in overproof spirit for no less than two weeks. Dilution -Diluted to bottling strength with Scottish water. Coloured with caramel.

Tasting notes: Adam Elmegirab

Colour/Nose - Copper coloured.  Wood, spice, chamomile and burnt citrus.

Palate – Initial sweetness followed by predominant chamomile and layers of complex flavour including coriander, raspberry, honey, citrus and pomegranate.

Finish – Long, bittersweet finish with a hint of violet.

Mixing Notes: 

Union Flip

1 bar spoon caraway seeds

4 crunches black peppercorns

1 whole egg

37.5ml Appleton 8 year old rum (or Flor de Cana 7 year old for more richness)

37.5ml Licor 43

4 Dashes Dr. Adam Elmegirab’s Spanish Bitters

5ml raw organic sugar syrup from the Simple Syrup Co

Method – muddle caraway seeds in base of mixing glass, add remaining ingredients and dry shake for 5 seconds.  Fill with cubed ice and shake hard for a further 10 seconds. Fine strain.
Glass – small, frozen wine glass
Garnish – grated nutmeg