Absinthe is a deep green, high proof, rather mysterious liquor made famous, or perhaps infamous, in 19th century artistic and literary circles. Absinthe itself is distilled with the herb grande wormwood, whose active ingredient thujone is purported to have hallucinogenic properties.
Absinthe's banning may or may not have stemmed from exaggerated accounts of its hallucinogenic properties, but it was a preferred drink of many famous authors and artists, including Vincent Van Gogh and Ernest Hemingway. Van Gogh was supposedly accompanied by an empty bottle of absinthe when he sliced off his ear in order to gain the attention of an estranged lover. Meanwhile, Hemingway frequently noted that absinthe seemed to enhance his creativity and passion for writing.
Actually, absinthe was banned worldwide over 100 years ago due to distilling problems and undeveloped distilling techniques. Of course, absinthe's mysterious reputation and other various misconceptions helped force and maintain the ban. Finally, in 2007, the ban on absinthe was lifted.
Absinthe is typically produced in the Czech Republic, and is of very high alcohol content, 140 proof. As such, it should be consumed sparingly and in the proper manner. However, it is interesting to note that many new absinthe drinkers have stated they remain remarkably clear headed, despite the high alcohol content. Some speculate this is due to the active ingredients in original absinthe.
This active ingredient, thujone, is a natural ingredient found in many plants and flowers. It has been said that thujone creates a pleasant, creative effect on the absinthe drinker. While there are several types of absinthe now available, most new absinthe drinkers become acquainted with the drink through original absinthe, also called King of Spirits.
To experience absinthe in the traditional louching method, a small cocktail glass, slotted spoon, and a sugar cube are needed. Pour a jigger of absinthe into the glass and place the sugar cube in the slotted spoon over the open glass. Then, slowly pour 5 or so ounces of ice water over the sugar cube, into the glass. This will cause the sugar cube to dissolve into the absinthe.
Watch What Happens Now
Watch what happens as the sugar cube dissolves into the absinthe. If you're using original absinthe, it will change colors into an opaque, cloudy green. Now, hold the glass up to your nose. You'll notice the fragrant aroma of anise and licorice. And now you're ready to enjoy!
While you'll have to taste absinthe to draw your own comparisons, absinthe to my taste is similar to Pernod. However, there are differences. Absinthe has a somewhat stronger taste than Pernod, and has more of pronounced feel on your palate.
If you enjoy unique specialty cocktails, you'll enjoy original absinthe. Original absinthe is European, historic, and a new taste sensation that is once again available. And you may even develop an artistic flair!
