Top 5 Facts About Absinthe

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Absinthe (French for "wormwood") is an alcoholic distillate of wormwood and other herbs known for its greenish appearance. This extremely high-proof herbal liquor has gotten a bad reputation from legends and rumors based on propaganda, exaggeration, politics and hype. This green tipple was a popular choice for 19th-century artists and intellectuals until it was subsequently banned in France, Belgium, Switzerland and the US since just prior to the First World War. Even though there is a lot of renewed interest in the drink, plenty of misconceptions still exist. Here are five facts you probably didn't know:

1. Absinthe is in fact legal

In fact, Absinthe has been legal in the US since 2007. Lucid (and Viridian Spirits) lobbied the US government to lift the 100-year ban and now absinthe is sold in all 50 states.

2. Contrary to popular belief, Absinthe doesn't make you hallucinate

This is a popular absinthe myth and is 100% false. Of course, consuming any spirit (especially one with an extraordinarily high proof) in large quantities will have consequences. The liquor's 'legendary effect' is, in fact, due to its extremely high alcohol content (usually around 60%), and in part from the contribution of various herbs - and no, wormwood is not the so-called "active ingredient" in absinthe.

3. The Proof - 124

No wonder absinthe is so misunderstood - especially when compared with vodka or rum, which is 80 proof. 1 oz of absinthe will certainly have more of an affect than 1 oz of vodka.

4. Absinthe should never be lit on fire

The traditional method of preparation involves dripping ice-cold water into a glass of absinthe. A sugar cube can also be placed on a slotted spoon between the absinthe and the dripping water, to sweeten the drink. Lighting a cube on fire is not only dangerous, but it can ruin the wonderful flavor of authentic absinthe.

5. Clear absinthe 'blanche' or 'le bleu' is also an authentic style of absinthe

Primarily produced in Switzerland, it differs in that it is a clear spirit and often has a slightly lower alcohol content. When produced authentically, both styles "louche" when cold water is added and use Grande Wormwood, green anise and sweet fennel in their herbal formulations.

 

 

 

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