Absinthe

Absinthe is a high-proof, anise-flavored spirit that has captivated bartenders and cocktail lovers for centuries. Made with wormwood, green anise, sweet fennel, and other aromatic herbs, this emerald-green liqueur delivers bold licorice flavors with complex herbal undertones. Often called "the green fairy," absinthe was banned in many countries but has made a remarkable comeback in modern cocktail culture.

Traditional absinthe preparation involves the famous water drip method, where ice-cold water slowly drips over a sugar cube into the spirit, creating a cloudy, opalescent effect called the "louche." This ritual transforms the clear green liquid into a milky, aromatic drink that releases hidden flavors and aromas.

In cocktails, absinthe works best when used sparingly as a rinse or in small doses. The classic Sazerac cocktail showcases absinthe perfectly, using just a rinse to add depth and aroma. Modern bartenders also use absinthe in creative ways, adding drops to enhance gin cocktails or creating innovative absinthe-forward drinks.

The key to using absinthe in cocktails is restraint. Its powerful flavor can easily overpower other ingredients, so start with small amounts. Quality absinthe brands like Pernod, St-George, and Kübler offer different flavor profiles, from traditional French styles to modern American interpretations. Store absinthe at room temperature away from direct sunlight to preserve its herbal complexity.