Lucid Absinthe

Lucid Absinthe Superior logo

Lucid Absinthe Supérieure is a brand of absinthe that was among the first to be legally imported into the United States after the 2007 lift of the long-standing ban on absinthe. Produced in France, Lucid Absinthe is made with traditional absinthe ingredients, including grande wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), green anise, and sweet fennel, following the classic French method. This article provides an overview of Lucid Absinthe, its history, production, and significance in the resurgence of absinthe in the 21st century.

History

The history of Lucid Absinthe is closely tied to the history of absinthe itself, a spirit that gained immense popularity in France in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly among artists and writers. However, absinthe was banned in the United States in 1912 and in many European countries around the same time, due to concerns over its safety and the psychoactive effects attributed to its thujone content. The ban lasted for nearly a century, until efforts to lift it began to gain traction in the early 2000s.

Lucid Absinthe was developed by Viridian Spirits LLC, a company founded by absinthe enthusiast and historian T.A. Breaux. Breaux, who had conducted extensive research on the composition of vintage absinthes, aimed to create a genuine absinthe that complied with modern safety standards while remaining true to the traditional recipes and production methods. Lucid Absinthe was officially launched in 2007, marking a significant milestone in the revival of legal absinthe sales in the U.S.

Production

Lucid Absinthe is produced in the historic Combier Distillery in Saumur, France, using traditional copper pot stills. The production process begins with the maceration of grande wormwood, green anise, and sweet fennel in a neutral spirit. This mixture is then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit, which is subsequently colored naturally through the infusion of additional herbs, resulting in Lucid Absinthe's characteristic green hue.

Significance

The launch of Lucid Absinthe was a key event in the modern resurgence of absinthe, demonstrating that it was possible to produce and sell a traditional absinthe within the regulatory frameworks of countries like the United States. It played a crucial role in dispelling myths about absinthe's supposed hallucinogenic properties and in educating the public and regulators about the safety and cultural significance of the spirit.

Consumption

Traditionally, absinthe is prepared by placing a sugar cube on a specially designed slotted spoon over a glass containing a shot of absinthe. Ice-cold water is then dripped or poured slowly over the sugar cube, causing the absinthe to louche into an opalescent white as the essential oils from the herbs are released. This method of preparation is recommended for enjoying Lucid Absinthe, allowing consumers to experience the complex flavors and aromas characteristic of high-quality absinthe.

Conclusion

Lucid Absinthe Supérieure has played a pivotal role in the revival of absinthe in the 21st century, offering a genuine and traditional absinthe experience that complies with modern safety standards. Its introduction into the U.S. market has not only expanded the availability of absinthe but has also contributed to a greater appreciation and understanding of this historic and culturally rich spirit.