Bitters

Best Bitters in Denmark: Where to Buy Angostura, Class Bitter & More

Why bitters deserve a permanent spot in your home bar

Bitters are the secret seasoning of the cocktail world — a few drops can elevate a simple mixed drink into something complex and memorable. Think of them as the salt and pepper of bartending: invisible when used well, indispensable when missing. If you're building a home bar or experimenting with craft cocktails, having a small collection of bitters quickly pays off. They add depth, balance sweetness, and introduce botanical, spicy, or citrus notes that transform ordinary spirits.

Bitters you’ll find at Rema1000

Rema1000 is known for being a budget-friendly supermarket chain across Denmark, and it sometimes stocks popular bitters that are perfect for everyday use. If you pop into Rema1000, you might spot a handful of reliable labels and formats that work well in classic recipes like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Class Bitter 35%

Class Bitter 35% is a straightforward option if you want a versatile bottle that won’t break the bank. With an alcohol strength that sits in the mid-range, it’s strong enough to carry a flavor punch but gentle enough to blend smoothly into a variety of cocktails. It’s a good starting point if you’re building a basic bitters lineup for home mixing.

The Berg 44%

The Berg at 44% ABV is bolder and more concentrated, which means you’ll use less per drink and enjoy longer-lasting intensity. Higher alcohol content often helps preserve aromatic compounds and delivers a sharper citrus or herbal bite. If you like your cocktails assertive, The Berg can be an excellent choice.

Bitter 38%

Bitter 38% is positioned between Class Bitter and The Berg in strength and versatility. It’s a safe all-rounder that performs well in stirred cocktails as well as more experimental mixed drinks. Expect balanced bitterness with typical herbal and botanical notes that complement both dark and clear spirits.

Bitter Dram 38%

Bitter Dram 38% carries the classic “dram” styling in both name and flavor — think robust, aromatic, and slightly medicinal in a charming, old-school way. This is the kind of bitter that pairs beautifully with aged spirits, adding a layered complexity without overwhelming the base spirit.

DH Wines: specialist selection for enthusiasts

DH Wines represents a more specialist channel where you can find curated selections of bitters and premium cocktail ingredients. If you’re hunting for well-known labels or slightly more exotic bottles, this type of shop is worth checking out.

Angostura Bitter 20 Cl

Angostura Bitter is almost synonymous with cocktail bitters worldwide. The 20 cl bottle is a compact, classic pick that’s perfect for anyone wanting the original aromatic bitters used in countless historic cocktails. Its concentrated blend of spices, herbs, and bittersweet bark adds unmistakable character to drinks and even a dash to culinary recipes.

Mr. Bitter Boat 70 Cl. - 35%

Mr. Bitter Boat at 70 cl is a larger-format bottle for enthusiasts who mix a lot of cocktails or want a countertop centerpiece. At 35% ABV, it balances flavor intensity and drinkability. Larger bottles often represent better value per milliliter, so if you host often or love experimenting, this is a sensible buy.

Other Danish stores that reliably stock bitters

Rema1000 and DH Wines are great places to start, but Denmark has a wide retail landscape where bitters pop up. From discount chains to specialty wine shops, you’ll find options that suit every budget and taste.

MENY and Føtex — supermarket chains with variety

Meny and Føtex are part of larger supermarket groups that often carry both entry-level and mid-range bitters. They’re a solid pit stop for shoppers looking for mainstream brands like Angostura as well as a few European or house brands that rotate seasonally.

Netto, Lidl and Aldi — budget-friendly picks

Discount supermarkets such as Netto, Lidl, and Aldi sometimes offer bitters as part of limited-time promotions or regular aisles. Their offerings tend toward the accessible and cost-effective, which is ideal if you’re experimenting and don’t want to commit to a pricey bottle right away.

Bilka, Kvickly and SuperBrugsen — wide selection stores

Bigger supermarkets like Bilka and local favorites like Kvickly and Superbrugsen typically have a broader beverage section that includes several bitters. You might find interesting local or imported labels, especially around holiday seasons when cocktail-making spikes.

Specialty wine and liquor shops — the treasure troves

Independent wine shops and boutique liquor stores are where you’ll find craft bitters, rare bottles, and small-batch producers. These shops often provide knowledgeable staff who can recommend a bitter by flavor profile or cocktail pairing, which is ideal if you want to step up your mixology game.

How to choose the right bitters for your cocktails

Choosing bitters can feel overwhelming, but a few simple filters make the decision much easier. Think about the flavors you like, the types of cocktails you make, and how adventurous you want to be.

Match flavor to cocktail style

Want to make classic stirred cocktails like Manhattans and Old Fashioneds? Reach for aromatic bitters such as Angostura. Want bright, zesty highballs? Citrus bitters will bring that sharp lift. For tequila- or mezcal-based drinks, consider herbal or chili bitters that complement agave and smoke.

Consider alcohol percentage and concentration

ABV matters. Higher-proof bitters (40% and above) are more concentrated and last longer in a cocktail, while lower-proof bitters are gentler and sometimes more approachable. It’s not just about strength — higher ABV can carry more volatile aromatics, which affects aroma and taste.

Start small, expand thoughtfully

Start with two or three bottles that cover a range: one aromatic, one citrus, and one herbal or spicy. From there, add specialized flavors — lavender, chocolate, celery — as you discover which profiles you reach for most often.

Practical ways to use bitters beyond cocktails

Bitters aren’t only for mixed drinks. A dash or two can brighten food and non-alcoholic beverages, too. Here are some creative uses you can try at home.

Cooking with bitters

Bitters can add complexity to sauces, stews, and marinades. Try a couple of drops in a rich meat glaze or a pan sauce to cut through fat and sharpen flavor. In dressings, bitters pair surprisingly well with vinegar and oil, giving salads a sophisticated herbal note.

Non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails

Bitters are a secret weapon for making mocktails feel grown-up. Add a dash to sparkling water, artisanal sodas, or fruit-based mocktails to introduce depth and balance sweetness. Because bitters are used sparingly, many non-alcoholic drinkers enjoy them without feeling like they’re drinking a spirit-forward beverage.

Budget vs premium bitters: when to splurge

Price isn’t everything, but it often correlates with quality of ingredients and production methods. Here’s how to decide whether to buy inexpensive bitters or invest in a premium bottle.

Buy budget bottles for experimentation

If you’re learning cocktails or experimenting with flavors, inexpensive bitters are a great way to explore different profiles without committing much money. Many low-cost options still offer solid flavor for everyday mixing.

Invest in premium bitters for signature drinks

Premium bitters often use better botanical sourcing and more refined distillation techniques, resulting in complex, nuanced flavors. If you’re crafting signature cocktails for friends or running a small bar at home, a premium bottle can make a noticeable difference.

Finding rare or craft bitters in Denmark

For collectors and enthusiasts, Denmark’s craft scene offers some exciting discoveries. Small producers and niche importers sometimes create limited runs and unique flavor combos that you won’t find on supermarket shelves.

Look to specialty retailers and online shops

Specialty wine shops, boutique liquor stores, and online retailers are your best bet for rare bitters. These retailers often collaborate with small-batch producers or import artisanal brands that deliver one-of-a-kind flavors.

Check local distilleries and makers

Keep an eye on local distilleries and craft producers — many experiment with bitters as a way to show off botanicals or reuse offcuts from gin and spirit production. Attending tastings or local food markets can lead to unique finds and direct connections with producers.

Storage and shelf life: keeping bitters fresh

Bitters are resilient, but proper storage ensures they stay aromatic and effective for a long time. Here are practical tips to maximize shelf life and maintain flavor integrity.

Store in a cool, dark place

Heat and direct light degrade volatile aromatics in bitters. Keep bottles away from windows and heat sources — a cupboard or pantry is usually perfect. Most bitters are alcoholic enough to resist spoilage, but they’ll perform better when stored properly.

Cap tightly and avoid cross-contamination

Always seal the bottle tightly and avoid dipping utensils into it. Using a dropper or dedicated measuring device keeps contamination to a minimum and preserves the original flavor profile.

Making the most of your bitters collection

Once you have a small collection, rotate and experiment. Think of bitters as instruments in an orchestra — each has a role, and the magic happens when you layer them thoughtfully.

Layer flavors for signature cocktails

Try combining two bitters in a drink: a dash of aromatic and a drop of citrus can add both backbone and brightness. Start small; bitters are potent, and a little goes a long way.

Keep a mixing journal

Jot down recipes, drops used, and results. A mixing journal helps you replicate hits and learn which bitters pair best with your favorite spirits. Over time you’ll build a personalized playbook of go-to combinations.

Conclusion

Bitters are a tiny bottle with big potential. Whether you’re picking up a basic Class Bitter at Rema1000, a classic Angostura from DH Wines, or hunting for craft creations at local specialty shops, Denmark offers plenty of options for every budget and curiosity level. Start with a few reliable bottles, experiment across cocktails and cooking, and gradually expand into more specialized flavors as your taste and confidence grow. The right bitters can turn a good drink into a memorable one — and the hunt for that perfect bottle is half the fun.