Crude Bitters

Craig is awesome and makes really good bitters! Go take one of their bitters classes and learn things you never knew about bitters. They also sell bar quality tools for bartenders at a very reasonable price.

Found out about crude bitters at a local farmers market 2 years ago. Didn’t know about bitters before, but really enjoyed the flavors and different uses in cocktails and sodas. When we had the opportunity to support his store opening, we did. We’ve enjoyed stopping by to check out some of the collaborations with other local beverage companies as well as follow him on social media to find out about classes to learn how to use bitters in new and creative ways. Great local spot!

We first met Craig and had a taste of Crude Bitters at a Bailey’s event that featured bourbon samplings. The Old Fashioneds he made were delicious, and you could select one of several bitters flavors he and his wife make to add to your spirits. After talking with Craig about his product, he mentioned they host free cocktail classes at their store. All you have to do is sign up online.
Last weekend, the hubs and I attended his Old Fashioned class. It was great! I liked the intimacy of the group, as there are only 10 people in the class. It allows you to ask any questions you may have, and people can share comments and stories. We all gathered on stools around the bar, and you can grab a bowl of popcorn to munch on. Craig started with the history of the drink, and we tried a classic creation. He then branched out with different variations, switching up the liquor bases and adding different bitters flavors. It was a really fun time! Of course, we walked away with some bitters (the orange and fig, as well as the coffee and cocoa) so we can make our own concoctions at home. I can’t wait to find another class to attend!

I was so excited to visit Crude Bitters and Sodas new storefront location during our latest First Friday. The hours were perfect, staying open until 10pm while most shops close up activities at 9pm. We made our way over as our last stop for the night and were graciously greeted and offered a Crank Arm beer even though we arrived ten or fifteen minutes prior to closing.
Craig, the owner and creator was fantastic. He talked to us about the shop (ask about the store behind the ‘zombie’ aka John Locke), the history of Crude Bitters and what their goal is for the location. In a market that is quickly becoming saturated with cocktail bars, Crude’s goal is to educate the public. Although I enjoy cocktails and drink them often when going out, I don’t always know the logistics of what I’m drinking: why things are paired together or how bitters are involved to enhance the flavors. So if a place is willing to educate its audience while enjoying some tasty treats, I’m a fan!
The most astonishing part, Crude offers these educational classes to the public for free! You just have to sign up ahead of time on their website. They also offer supplies and bitters for purchase to help you recreate cocktails they’ve taught you at home. Located just a short walk from The Depot, it’s the perfect spot for true knowledge pursuers. They receive support from Tito Distillery and Fair Game to name a few, and with their donations can help educate the public. I look forward to taking some of the classes they offer and you should too!