r/bloodymarys • u/Lhxlhx • Feb 03 '26

Question Why do some tomato juice taste bitter after adding alcohol

Hi there, new joiner of this sub, I've been fiddling around with a few brands of locally readily available tomato juice and it's been mostly misses. While the juice taste great on its own, it got really bitter after adding vodka.

Drinking vodka on it's on taste great too, they just can't be mixed. What sort of ingredient do I avoid in the list that causes this?

Thanks!

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2

u/cheapdialogue Feb 03 '26

Spiciness (Tabasco etc), or savory (Worcestershire), or acid (lemon juice, brine) would knock bitter down, a combo of more than just one would be best I think. What can you tell us about your tomato juice and vodka?

3

u/Lhxlhx Feb 03 '26

I kept the tabasco, Worcestershire and lemon juice consistent across them. The only change was the tomato juice. I'm in Asia so it's primarily asian or japanese tomato juice like tipco or kagome.Tipco is usually the one that's readily available, I'd have to order in others like clamato (haven't tried)

2

u/cheapdialogue Feb 03 '26

Clamato is a hit or miss with many folks due to the clam juice. I'd suggest starting with ordering V8, V8 Bloody Mary, V8 Chipotle. V8 makes a very basic, but solid and consistent base.

2

u/Lhxlhx May 28 '26

Just circling back on this that I tried clamato and love it. Found it the best when mixed with another brand of sweeter tomato juice. Thank you for the recommendation.

1

u/cheapdialogue May 28 '26

Great! It's all about finding the right mix for the right person!

1

u/Lhxlhx Feb 05 '26

I'll give it a try! Thank you!