Absinthe

Strong green liqueur flavored with wormwood and anise;  aromatic herb of temperate Eurasia and North Africa having a bitter taste used in making the liqueur absinthe. Absinthe is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is known for its green color and strong herbal flavor. It is made with a mixture of botanicals, including wormwood, anise, and fennel, which give it a distinct aroma and taste. Absinthe has a high alcohol content, typically between 45% and 74% alcohol by volume.

History

Absinthe originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century and gained popularity in France in the 19th century. It was often associated with bohemian culture and was popular among artists and writers, including Vincent van Gogh and Oscar Wilde. Absinthe was also rumored to have hallucinogenic properties, which added to its mystique. In the early 20th century, absinthe was banned in many countries due to concerns about its safety and alleged psychoactive effects. It was not until the late 20th century that absinthe was once again legalized in many countries, including the United States.

Production

Absinthe is made by distilling a mixture of herbs and botanicals in alcohol. The main ingredients in absinthe are wormwood, anise, and fennel. Other ingredients may include hyssop, lemon balm, coriander, and angelica root. The distillation process is typically done in a copper still, which produces a clear liquid that is then colored green by adding herbs like petite wormwood or spinach. The final product is typically bottled at a high alcohol content and diluted with water before serving.

Preparation and Consumption

Absinthe is traditionally served by dripping water over a sugar cube placed on a slotted spoon resting on top of a glass of absinthe. This process is called the "louche" and causes the absinthe to turn cloudy and milky white. The drink is typically consumed as an aperitif before a meal, and the ritual of preparing and consuming absinthe is often seen as an important part of its cultural significance.

Controversy

Absinthe has been controversial throughout its history due to concerns about its safety and alleged psychoactive effects. Wormwood, one of the main ingredients in absinthe, contains a chemical called thujone that has been linked to hallucinations and other psychological effects. While thujone is present in absinthe, studies have shown that the levels of thujone in absinthe are generally not high enough to produce psychoactive effects. The ban on absinthe in the early 20th century was largely driven by concerns about alcoholism and public health, rather than concerns about thujone or other psychoactive compounds.

See also

Distilled beverage Anise Wormwood Alcoholic drink Cocktail Louche