Absinthe
With Absinthe you can make
Green Swizzle
Monkey Gland
Death In The Afternoon
Aunt Roberta
Absinthe Drip
Rattle Snake
Sazerac
Pumpkin Sazerac
Turf Club
Zombie Punch
We've got 95 cocktails that can be made with Absinthe.
Find out what to make with Absinthe
Q&A
Where did absinthe originate and how did it become popular?
Absinthe originated in the late 18th century in Switzerland and gained widespread popularity in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was particularly favored by artists and writers who attributed their creativity to its unique effects. Its mystique, complex flavor, and the intricate ritual of its preparation contributed to its popularity. Despite its ban in the early 1900s due to concerns about its psychoactive effects, modern research has debunked many myths surrounding absinthe, leading to a resurgence in its production and popularity.
What is the traditional method for preparing absinthe?
The traditional method of preparing absinthe involves a process called 'louching.' A shot of absinthe is poured into a glass, and a sugar cube is placed on a specially designed slotted spoon that rests on the glass. Iced water is then slowly dripped over the sugar cube, dissolving it into the absinthe. This results in a diluted, opalescent mixture that highlights the complex flavors and aromas of the spirit. This method not only prepares the drink but also serves as a ritual that enhances the absinthe drinking experience.
What are the key botanicals used in absinthe and what flavors do they impart?
Absinthe is made with a variety of botanicals, including the flowers and leaves of Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), green anise, sweet fennel, and other medicinal and culinary herbs. Wormwood contributes to the bitter, herbal qualities of absinthe, while green anise and sweet fennel add a distinctive licorice flavor. These herbs, among others, create absinthe's complex and intense flavor profile, marked by herbal, floral, and spicy undertones.
In what types of cocktails is absinthe commonly used, and how does it affect the drink's flavor?
Absinthe is commonly used in classic cocktails such as the Sazerac, Corpse Reviver #2, and the Absinthe Frappe. Its strong herbal and licorice-like flavors add complexity and depth to cocktails, often serving as a balancing agent to sweet or citrus components. In many cocktails, absinthe is used in small quantities to rinse the glass, imparting a subtle aroma and flavor that significantly influences the overall taste profile of the drink.
How has absinthe influenced art and culture?
Absinthe has had a significant impact on art and culture, especially in late 19th- and early 20th-century France. It was famously consumed by artists, writers, and intellectuals, who often depicted it in their works or attributed their creativity to its effects. The fascination with absinthe transcended its physical consumption, becoming a symbol of the bohemian lifestyle, rebellion against societal norms, and the pursuit of creativity. This cultural significance has contributed to the enduring allure and mystique of absinthe.
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