Absinthe Frappé Cocktail recipe
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Absinthe Frappé is a bracing, anise-forward refresher that shows off absinthe in a lighter, more approachable way. You’ll often see it associated with New Orleans drinking culture, where absinthe found a natural home and long, cooling serves suited the city’s heat. Rather than leaning into absinthe’s intensity as a straight pour, this style frames it as a crisp, aromatic long drink that’s built for slow sipping.
With just absinthe and a small measure of sugar or simple syrup, the flavour is all about contrast and balance. You’ll find the syrup softens absinthe’s sharp herbal edge, rounding out its licorice-like intensity without masking it. Expect a clean, lingering finish where the sweetness fades quickly and the absinthe’s bold aromatics stay front and centre.
This is a great choice when you want something distinctive but not heavy—ideal as a pre-dinner palate awakener or a warm-weather sipper. If you enjoy assertive herbal spirits and drinks that feel crisp rather than fruity, you’ll appreciate how focused and elegant this one tastes in a rocks glass.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Absinthe leads with intense anise and herbal bitterness, while the simple syrup rounds the edges into a lightly sweet, cooling sip that keeps the spirit’s aromatic punch front and center. It works because the sugar softens absinthe’s sharpness without muting its character, making it ideal for adventurous drinkers who want a streamlined, spirit-forward refresher.
Method
How to make a Absinthe Frappé
- Absinthe 45ml, Sugar / simple syrup 7.5ml
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- Add the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake vigorously then strain into a ice-filled rocks glass
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- Top up with a couple of dashes of chilled water, garnish with a mint sprig, and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Use a quality absinthe with high anise content for a more pronounced and aromatic flavor.
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FAQ's
What is the history of the Absinthe Frappé?
The Absinthe Frappé was invented in the late 19th century by Cayetano Ferrer at the famous New Orleans bar, Café Frappé. It became popular as a refreshing way to enjoy absinthe, particularly in the hot summer months. Its simplicity and cooling effect helped establish its popularity, especially during the time when absinthe was widely consumed in America and Europe before its ban in many countries in the early 20th century.
How do I correctly serve an Absinthe Frappé?
To serve an Absinthe Frappé correctly, fill a lowball glass with crushed ice, then add the absinthe and sugar syrup. Shake the mixture well until it's chilled, then pour it into the prepared glass. Optionally, you can garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of flavor and aesthetic appeal. The key is to ensure the drink is cold and refreshing.
Can I use any type of absinthe for an Absinthe Frappé?
Yes, you can use any type of absinthe for an Absinthe Frappé. However, the quality and flavor profile of the absinthe will significantly impact the taste of the cocktail. Traditional absinthes with a strong anise flavor and a hint of wormwood are ideal for creating an authentic Absinthe Frappé experience.
Is the Absinthe Frappé a strong drink?
Yes, the Absinthe Frappé is considered a strong drink, primarily because absinthe itself is a high-proof spirit with an alcohol content that can range between 45% and 74% ABV. The cocktail's strength is somewhat mitigated by the dilution from the crushed ice, but it's still a potent beverage best enjoyed in moderation.
Are there any variations of the Absinthe Frappé I can try?
Yes, there are several variations of the Absinthe Frappé you can try. One popular variation involves adding a splash of soda water for extra fizz and dilution. Another variation includes incorporating fresh herbs such as mint or basil into the shaker to infuse additional flavors. Additionally, some bartenders like to experiment with different syrups, such as raspberry or elderflower, to add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
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