Peychaud’s is the classic bitter that pushes licorice root to the fore. It is also unique among aromatic bitters for its tart and fruity flavors, with lots of rhubarb-like vegetal twang and the sweet juiciness of cherry candy. There is some spice, mostly clove, with a pop of saffron and orange zest before a long and moderately bitter gentian finish.
Aromatic bitters tend to be a mix of baking spice, licorice, fruit, and bitter notes. While some brands will push one of these aspects to the fore, Angostura bitters keep things pretty balanced. Clove, nutmeg, allspice, cardamom, and a touch of cinnamon represent the baking spice angle, and while there’s a recognizable licorice note, it doesn’t dominate. A sweet and sour tamarind-esque fruit flavor shows up next, with a woody, slightly bitter flavor rounding things out
