Name: Bitters on the Beach
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 1.5 oz tequila; 1 oz pineapple juice; 3 oz sweet & sour mix; 2 dashes aromatic bitters (to top); Optional: splash of soda water; Garnish: lime wheel or pineapple wedge (optional)

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The Bitters on the Beach is a bright, zesty cocktail that brings a tangy tropical twist to your glass with a splash of bold sophistication. Featuring a citrusy base of sweet & sour mix, it’s elevated by smooth tequila and a hint of pineapple juice for a touch of island sweetness. A couple of dashes of aromatic bitters add depth and balance, while an optional splash of soda water lightens the drink with a subtle fizz. Garnished with a lime wheel or pineapple wedge, this cocktail is perfect for beach days, brunches, or whenever you need a refreshing escape with a bittersweet edge.

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Tasting Notes

The Bitters on the Beach cocktail is a vibrant and laid-back drink that strikes a perfect balance between tropical brightness and nuanced complexity. Sweet & sour mix and pineapple juice provide a citrusy, tangy foundation, while tequila adds a smooth, earthy depth with its signature agave character. What sets this cocktail apart is the addition of aromatic bitters, which lend subtle layers of herbal spice and a touch of sophistication, turning a beachy sipper into something truly memorable.

Optionally finished with a splash of soda water for added fizz, this drink becomes even more refreshing and light—perfect for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues, or any occasion where sunshine and good vibes are on the menu. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, lime wheel, or even a dash of chili salt on the rim for extra flair. The Bitters on the Beach is easygoing yet elevated—a tropical twist for those who enjoy their cocktails with a bit more character.

Equipment and Glassware

Use a cocktail shaker and jigger for mixing. Serve in a rocks glass or highball glass over ice. A bar spoon is helpful for gently topping with bitters or soda water.

Ingredients

1.5 oz tequila
1 oz pineapple juice
3 oz sweet & sour mix
2 dashes aromatic bitters (to top)
Optional: splash of soda water
Garnish: lime wheel or pineapple wedge (optional)

Instructions

Shake: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine sweet & sour mix, tequila, and pineapple juice. Shake until well chilled.
Strain: Strain into a rocks or highball glass filled with fresh ice.
Top: Add 2 dashes of aromatic bitters over the top. For a lighter version, add a splash of soda water.
Garnish (Optional): Add a lime wheel or pineapple wedge for a tropical finish.

Pro Tips

Use fresh pineapple juice for a cleaner, more vibrant flavor.
Add a dash of lime juice if you like your drinks on the zesty side.
For a layered look, float the bitters gently over the back of a spoon.

When to Serve

The Bitters on the Beach is a refreshing, citrus-forward mocktail (or light cocktail) that brings together zesty lemon and lime with a tropical twist and a dash of sophistication. Made with a mix of lemon and lime juice, a splash of pineapple or passionfruit juice, and finished with a few dashes of aromatic bitters, this drink is crisp, tangy, and subtly complex. A splash of soda water adds light fizz, making it ultra-refreshing and easy to sip.

Perfect for beach parties, BBQs, brunches, or anytime you’re in the mood for a laid-back yet elevated drink, the Tropical Lemon Lime Bitters strikes a balance between fun and refined. Garnish with a lime wheel, pineapple wedge, or a sprig of mint for a colorful finish that fits any sunny occasion.

Recommended Brands

Sweet & sour mix: Freshly made or high-quality bottled (preferably with real citrus)
Tequila: Espolòn, Cazadores, or Lunazul
Bitters: Angostura or Peychaud’s for classic flavor

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