Kübler Absinthe

File:Kublerabsinthe.jpg

Kübler Absinthe

Type	Spirit
Manufacturer
Distributor
Country of origin	Switzerland
Region of origin
Introduced	1863
Discontinued
Alcohol by volume	53%
Proof (US)
Color	Clear

Kübler Absinthe is a traditional Swiss absinthe, known for its clear appearance and distinctive anise flavor. It is produced in the Val-de-Travers region of Switzerland, which is historically recognized as the birthplace of absinthe. Kübler Absinthe is notable for its adherence to traditional recipes and methods, offering a classic representation of the spirit.

History

The production of Kübler Absinthe began in 1863, founded by Jules Kübler in the Val-de-Travers. This region is renowned for its long history of absinthe production, dating back to the late 18th century. During the early 20th century, absinthe faced significant legal challenges, leading to its ban in many countries, including Switzerland in 1910. Despite these challenges, the Kübler family continued to produce absinthe clandestinely.

In 2005, Switzerland lifted the ban on absinthe, allowing Kübler Absinthe to be legally produced and sold once again. This marked a significant revival of the traditional absinthe culture in the region.

Production

Kübler Absinthe is crafted using a traditional recipe that includes a blend of herbs, with the primary ingredients being grand wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), anise, and fennel. The production process involves macerating these herbs in alcohol, followed by distillation. Unlike some other absinthes, Kübler does not contain artificial coloring, resulting in its clear appearance.

The spirit is bottled at 53% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is considered a traditional strength for absinthe. This allows for the full expression of its herbal flavors when diluted with water.

Flavor Profile

Kübler Absinthe is characterized by its strong anise flavor, complemented by the bitterness of wormwood and the sweetness of fennel. When water is added, the absinthe undergoes a process known as louche, where it turns a milky white color. This is due to the release of essential oils from the herbs, enhancing the aroma and flavor.

Cultural Significance

Absinthe has a rich cultural history, often associated with artists and writers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Kübler Absinthe, as a traditional Swiss absinthe, plays a role in preserving this cultural heritage. It is often enjoyed using the traditional absinthe ritual, which involves slowly dripping water over a sugar cube placed on a slotted spoon.

Legal Status

Following the lifting of the absinthe ban in Switzerland in 2005, Kübler Absinthe has been legally available in many countries. It complies with regulations regarding thujone content, a compound found in wormwood, ensuring it is safe for consumption.

Also see

• Absinthe
• Val-de-Travers
• Jules Kübler
• Wormwood
• Anise