Ever wondered what bitters are or how to use them? This episode is here to demystify the magic of these tiny-but-mighty drink enhancers!  Recorded as part of the recent Mocktail Summit 2025, I’m chatting with Ian Blessing, co-founder of All The Bitter, an incredible alcohol-free bitters company he runs with his wife, Carly. (Want to hear more about their journey from sommeliers at The French Laundry to NA entrepreneurs? Check out Episode 6 for the full scoop on how they started their company and manage it together!)

Today, our focus is on bitters: what they are, how they work, and why they’re the “salt and pepper” of the cocktail world. Ian breaks down how these intensively flavored extracts can transform everything from sparkling water to your favorite mocktails. And with All The Bitter, they’ve created a totally alcohol-free option that’s packed with flavor and functional benefits, making them perfect for anyone.

And, of course, we couldn’t just talk about bitters—we made a drink together! Ian shares his recipe for Goodnight, Manhattan, a deliciously rich and complex mocktail you can recreate at home. (Find the full recipe below!) And as an added bonus, Ian shares his go-to recommendations for various NA drink options. 

Whether you’re mixing up something fancy or just looking to add a little extra sparkle to your daily hydration, this episode is packed with tips, flavor ideas, and plenty of fun. Cheers to discovering your new favorite drink upgrade!

Get in touch with Ian at All The Bitter!
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Goodnight, Manhattan

2 oz Three Spirit Nightcap

1 oz tart cherry juice

3 dashes All The Bitter Lavender bitters

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice, stir for 15-20 seconds, and strain into a coupe glass (or a rocks glass with an ice cube). Garnish with a cocktail cherry.

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