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Angostura

Angostura is a brand best known for Angostura aromatic bitters, a concentrated herbal alcoholic flavouring used mainly in cocktails and sometimes in food.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Angostura is a brand best known for its aromatic bitters, a concentrated herbal alcoholic flavouring used primarily in cocktails and occasionally in food. The product originated in 1824 with Dr. Johann Siegert in Angostura, Venezuela, and is now produced by House of Angostura in Trinidad and Tobago.

History

Angostura began as a medicinal tincture developed by Dr. Johann Siegert in 1824 in Angostura, Venezuela. The product later became established as a cocktail ingredient, and the company’s operations were moved to Trinidad in the 19th century.

Products and use

The best-known product is Angostura aromatic bitters, a concentrated flavouring made from herbs, spices, and other botanicals. It is used in small amounts to season cocktails and, less commonly, food.

Company

The brand is produced by House of Angostura, also known as Angostura Limited. The company is based in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and also makes rum and other bitters products.

Cultural significance

Angostura bitters is one of the most recognisable bitters brands in the cocktail world. It has become a standard ingredient in many classic drinks and is closely associated with bartending culture.

Key facts

  • Angostura bitters were created in 1824 by Dr. Johann Siegert as a medicinal preparation.
  • The name comes from the town of Angostura in Venezuela.
  • Production moved to Trinidad and Tobago in the 19th century.
  • Angostura bitters are a key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whisky Sour.
  • The company is also a major rum producer.
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Canadian context

Angostura bitters are widely stocked by Canadian bars, restaurants, and home bartenders as a standard cocktail ingredient, especially in classic drinks.

Frequently asked questions

What is Angostura?
Angostura is a brand best known for its aromatic bitters, a concentrated flavouring used in cocktails and some foods.
Who created Angostura bitters?
They were created by Dr. Johann Siegert in 1824.
Where did Angostura originate?
It originated in Angostura, Venezuela, now known as Ciudad Bolívar.
Where is Angostura produced today?
It is produced by House of Angostura in Trinidad and Tobago.
What are Angostura bitters used for?
They are used mainly to flavour cocktails, and sometimes to season food.
Is Angostura the same as angostura bark?
No. The brand name comes from the town of Angostura, not from angostura bark.

References

  1. Angostura Bitters — https://angosturabitters.com/our-story/
    Supports: Founding in 1824, company history, current company name, and product line.
  2. Angostura — https://angostura.com/our-business/our-story/
    Supports: Brand history, headquarters context, bitters leadership, and rum production.
  3. BBC — https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210512-the-secret-history-of-angostura-bitters
    Supports: Historical background, production in Trinidad, and common cocktail uses.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angostura_bitters
    Supports: General definition, ingredients, and use as a cocktail bitters.