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Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit with a rich cultural history. Originating in Switzerland in the late 18th century, it gained popularity among artists and writers in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its reputation as a potent and potentially dangerous drink led to being banned in many countries, but over time the perception of absinthe has changed.
Today, absinthe has made a comeback and is again considered a fashionable drink. Its unique taste and ritualistic preparation, which typically involves adding water and sugar to the spirit, have helped to revive its popularity and establish it as a must-try drink for those looking to experience a piece of cocktail history.
What is absinthe?
Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit made from a blend of botanicals, including wormwood, fennel, and anise. According to popular legend, while seeking to cure various diseases, Pierre Ordinaire – a French doctor living in Couvet, Switzerland, around 1792 – crafted this drinkable green concoction. Years later, Henri-Louis Pernod opened a large absinthe distillery in Pontarlier, France. However, due to concerns over the ingredient wormwood, which contains thujone that, in large amounts, can be toxic, absinthe was banned in many countries in the early 20th century. Today, it’s widely available again, with many countries lifting the ban.
What is absinthe made of?
The exact composition of absinthe can vary significantly between brands and recipes, but the core ingredients – wormwood, anise and fennel, which are also often collectively known as the 'holy trinity' – remain the foundation of most absinthe products. Wormwood, the key ingredient in absinthe, is typically used in a concentration of around 10-20%. The bitter and slightly medicinal flavour of wormwood is balanced by the sweetness of fennel, typically used in a concentration of approximately 30-40%. Anise, with its liquorice-like flavour, is also used in a concentration of around 10-20% to add a sweet and aromatic character to the spirit.
Besides ‘the holy trinity’ of absinthe, the other botanical ingredients are coriander, angelica root, hyssop, melissa, star anise, peppermint, coriander and veronica. Each of these herbs contributes to absinthe's distinctive flavour and aroma, making it a complex and multi-layered spirit. Last but not least, the alcohol used in the production of absinthe can vary, with traditional absinthes being made from a white grape spirit or eau de vie. In contrast, lesser-quality absinthes are made from alcohol derived from grains, beets, or potatoes.
The absinthe ritual
The absinthe ritual is considered important because it helps to bring out the full flavour and aroma of the drink. The absinthe ritual is also seen as a symbol of the tradition and history of absinthe. This ritual is, therefore, an important part of the drinking experience.
The ritual involves carefully pouring cold water over a sugar cube placed on a slotted spoon above a glass of absinthe. The addition of sugar and water helps to balance the bitter taste of the wormwood and create a smoother, more palatable drink. As the water filters through the sugar and into the glass, the absinthe becomes cloudy, and the essential oils are released, creating a unique and intricate flavour profile.
How to prepare absinthe
The traditional absinthe ritual involves several steps and rules to follow to ensure that the drink is prepared correctly and in keeping with tradition. Here are the steps for preparing absinthe in the traditional way:
- Fill an absinthe glass with 1 to 3 ounces of absinthe, depending on personal preference.
- Lay an absinthe spoon across the top of the glass rim.
- Place a sugar cube on the spoon.
- Slowly pour cold water over the sugar cube and into the glass, aiming for a ratio of 3-5 parts water to 1 part absinthe. As the water drips through the sugar and into the absinthe, it will cause the drink to become cloudy and the essential oils in the drink to be released, creating a unique and complex flavour profile.
- Stir the mixture gently with a spoon to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Once the absinthe is properly mixed, it is ready to drink. Take small sips and enjoy your absinthe.
Absinthe cocktails
Absinthe cocktails are a unique fusion of the green spirit with other ingredients to produce an array of distinctive drinks. Absinthe boasts a strong, herbal flavour and often takes centre stage in cocktails, but when combined with other elements, it can result in a complex and appealing flavour profile. Absinthe cocktails demonstrate the versatility of the drink, which can be paired with various flavours to create a range of cocktails to suit varying tastes. Whether blended with sweet, sour, or bitter ingredients, absinthe cocktails offer an enjoyable and intriguing addition to any drink selection. Here are our top 5 classic absinthe cocktail recipes you need to know.
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