The Bitter Truth Orange Bitters 200ml

This is my first taste of a product from The Bitter Truth. A lot of their lineup looks appealing so I figured I'd start here.I was hoping for something more like orange zest in a bottle. This is more mellow, less bitter and warm. I was looking for something to do double duty, both in drinks and some cooking, and I'm not sure if this will fit the bill.Packaging. Man, this came with nice booklets going over the history of bitters, a bit about the owners, and recipes, as well as a QR code for a discount off my next order.The Bottle. Its a lot of bitters. which is good because sometimes I have to use a lot. But back to the bottle. I love that its thicker, has an EASY to open big top (not like some other bitter brands) fits in the hand nicely and doesn't have paper wrapping around it up to the label. Definitely made with a bartender in mind I feel.The cost: It seems in line for what other more boutique bitter brands are going for. Its a lot, but for quality I don't mind spending.The Drinks:VodkaMy first drink with this was a locally distilled vodka (Black Vulture, from Milk Street Distillery) from corn that has what i consider more than a hint of residual sweetness. I normally cut it with Club soda and maybe a dash of aromatic bitters. My normal go-to is a splash of lime juice as well but it doesn't work for this vodka. Figured I'd try the orange bitters on it. It took several dashes for me to even pick up the orange. in the end I added several more, as well as a dash of aromatic bitters. That ONE dash of aromatic was stronger than 6 of this. I was more than a bit let down.Gin MartiniMy second drink. Brooklyn Gin, which has great citrus notes. Dry vermouth, two dashes of Orange Bitters, and a twist of lemon. HERE is where the bitters shine. The warmer citrus notes from the bitters just worked so well with the gin and I feel really elevated the drink for me. Its not overpowering, but complementary, just sitting in the background.I've yet to try cooking with anything I'd want to add orange to, but as I mentioned I don't have the highest hopes. For my martinis though... this is wonderful.Overall, I'm not disappointed even though I had higher expectations. I think I may try some of their others, like celery bitters.

O mystical magical orange of turth. I praise you in all your pulsating glory. your turth guides me in the path of righteousness. please never abandon me to the lying lemons. O mother turth orange i trust in your word. cleanse me of my bitter ways. i reject who i am and i claim my identity as daughter of turth orange.