What is bitter lemon?
The name “bitter lemon” refers to the flavour of this particular soft drink. Bitter lemon usually contains carbonic acid and quinine, which is why it is categorized as a “bitter lemonade” (soft drink that contains quinine) in some countries.
Despite the term bitter lemon, the drinking experience is far from one-sided. While the quinine creates the bitter-tasting compounds, lime juice and lime extract are responsible for a wonderfully sour flavour which has a great refreshing effect – especially when combined with carbonic acid. The sugar creates the perfect aromatic balance.
Quinine and health risks
The intake of quinine should be reduced during pregnancy as the infant can become dependent on it, which may lead to withdrawal symptoms after birth. Furthermore, quinine has a stimulating effect on the womb and can cause premature labour. People suffering from tinnitus or digestive disorders should also be cautious with drinks that contain quinine.
To be approved as a bitter lemonade in Germany, Austria and other countries, a drink may not contain more than 85 mg of quinine per litre. Most bitter lemon brands lie at around 30 mg of quinine or less per litre.
The history of bitter lemon
The history of bitter lemon can be traced back to the mid-19th century. Around 1830, people started mixing lime and lemon juice with Schweppes Tonic Water to create new, refreshing drinks. This resulted in an intense, fruity-sour flavour that was completely unknown at that time. However, it would take more than 100 years before the first bitter lemon by Schweppes was released: In 1957, bitter lemon was commercially released by Schweppes.
How is bitter lemon produced?
The production of bitter lemon depends on the brand. Today, usually only a small amount of lime juice is used. Instead, lime extract has become a popular ingredient as it creates a more consistent and intense aroma. After mixing quinine, lime extract, lime juice, sugar and possible additives, carbonic acid is added before the bottling.
Mixed drinks with bitter lemon
Due to its bitter-sour aroma, bitter lemon is a very dominant flavouring agent in mixed drinks. That’s why rather simple combinations with gin or vodka are most popular. Additionally, there are a few more complex cocktails like the Springtime or the Saint Paul that contain bitter lemon.
Special bitter lemon brands
The most renowned bitter lemon brand is, without a doubt, Schweppes, the first company that sold bitter lemon commercially and made the drink a success. Schweppes Original Bitter Lemon is a classic on the market and unmistakable in its aroma. If you’re interested in a more modern variety of the soft drink, Thomas Henry Bitter Lemon is a good choice. Since its foundation in 2010, the Germany company has been producing excellent bitter lemonades with a modern twist.
Bitter lemon at Gustero
Our selection of bitter lemon drinks focuses on the essential because we want to make your decision as easy as possible. What’s important to us is offering you high-quality products that are suitable both for their pure enjoyment and the creation of mixed drinks.
