Cocktails with absinthe

Cocktails with Absinthe

Absinthe, often referred to as the "Green Fairy," is a highly alcoholic spirit derived from botanicals, including the flowers and leaves of Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), together with green anise, sweet fennel, and other medicinal and culinary herbs. A staple in the world of mixology, absinthe is not only consumed neat or with water but also serves as a key ingredient in a variety of cocktails. Its distinct bitterness and complex botanical flavors can transform a simple drink into a sophisticated concoction.

History of Absinthe in Cocktails

Absinthe first gained popularity in France and Switzerland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It became associated with bohemian culture, with many artists and writers of the time advocating its use. However, due to concerns over its psychoactive properties, absinthe was banned in many countries in the early 1900s. This ban was lifted in many parts of the world in the late 20th century, leading to a resurgence in absinthe's popularity, including its use in cocktails.

Popular Cocktails with Absinthe

The Sazerac

One of the oldest known cocktails, the Sazerac, is often cited as America's first cocktail. Originating in New Orleans, this drink is a mix of rye whiskey or cognac, a sugar cube, Peychaud's bitters, and a few dashes of absinthe.

The Corpse Reviver #2

Part of a series of "Corpse Reviver" cocktails, the Corpse Reviver #2 is a refreshing and potent cocktail designed to cure hangovers. It combines equal parts of gin, lemon juice, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, and a dash of absinthe.

Death in the Afternoon

This cocktail was invented by Ernest Hemingway and consists of absinthe and chilled champagne. The drink's name and its association with Hemingway have made it a legendary cocktail among literary and absinthe enthusiasts.

The Absinthe Frappé

Invented in the late 19th century in New Orleans, the Absinthe Frappé is a simple yet refreshing cocktail made by shaking absinthe with ice, simple syrup, and mint leaves. It is then strained into a glass filled with crushed ice.

Preparing Cocktails with Absinthe

When preparing cocktails with absinthe, it is important to consider the spirit's potency and distinct flavor profile. Absinthe can easily overpower other ingredients, so it is typically used in small quantities. The traditional method of serving absinthe involves placing a sugar cube on a slotted spoon over a glass containing a shot of absinthe and then slowly pouring cold water over the sugar cube. This process, known as "louching," dilutes the absinthe and brings out its complex flavors. In cocktails, absinthe is often used to rinse the glass, imparting a subtle aroma and flavor to the drink.

Conclusion

Cocktails with absinthe offer a glimpse into the storied past of this enigmatic spirit. From the Sazerac to Death in the Afternoon, these drinks embody the allure and mystique of the Green Fairy. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a curious novice, exploring the world of absinthe cocktails is a journey through history, flavor, and the art of cocktail making.