Amid the quiet launch of Caroni Bitters by former executive Vidia Doodnath, Angostura Holdings chairman Gary Hunt has adopted a measured corporate stance, declining to disclose the renowned rum and bitters manufacturer’s specific response strategy. Hunt addressed journalists during a media briefing at the House of Angostura on Eastern Main Road, Port of Spain, where the company celebrated its inaugural shipment of the Ready to Drink product ‘420’.
When questioned about the emerging competition, Hunt characterized the situation as ‘delicate’ and requiring thorough examination. ‘I will not make any judgements or pronouncements at this time,’ Hunt stated. ‘The matter is receiving our fullest attention, and we are responding appropriately. We must gather all facts before providing a comprehensive response.’
Despite his reserved commentary, Hunt explicitly confirmed he was not surprised by Doodnath’s market entry. He also revealed that Angostura had not initiated contact with its former executive since learning of Caroni Bitters’ December 7 launch.
The new competitor directly challenges Angostura’s global bitters dominance, which has maintained its secret recipe for nearly two centuries. Founded in 1824 by Dr. Johann Siegert as medicinal stomach remedy, Angostura Bitters evolved through his sons’ migration to Trinidad, where Don Carlos Siegert transformed it into a cocktail and culinary essential.
The company’s market position appears robust despite new competition. Recent financial disclosures show an 8% revenue increase from $698 million in 2024 to $757 million in 2025, with post-tax profits rising 10% to $104 million for the nine-month period ending September 30.
Angostura’s industry accolades reinforce its market strength. The company’s Orange Bitters variation was recognized as both the top-selling and top-trending bitters globally in 2018 by Drinks International, additionally receiving the platinum medal at the Spirits International Prestige Awards that same year.
Attempts by Newsday to reach Doodnath through her husband on December 12 were unsuccessful, with sources indicating she was indisposed and would return contact. No response was received by press time.