Absinthe Drink Recipes Index
About Absinthe
I have a number of old recipes that include Absinthe as one of the ingredients. However, it's not something I've noticed in bars before.
After doing a bit of research I discovered that it's making a comeback and is available in some bars, (although not in the U.S. apparently), and available in some liquor stores in Canada including the B.C. Liquor Board stores.
I couldn't tell you if it's widely available in liquor stores in other provinces and countries or not.
As it turns out Absinthe has a long history and has been available in one form or another for centuries. It was often sold as a medicine and some said it enhanced creativity and clarity of mind despite it's high alcohol content.
However, despite having many fans, Absinthe fell into disfavor by 1905 when a strong anti-Absinthe movement emerged. By the 1920's, it had been banned in the U.S. and a number of European countries. An interesting thing to note though is that I have some recipes dating from 1936 and 1941 that contain Absinthe as one of the ingredients.
Today, Absinthe is seeing a comeback in popularity among some people again. It is completely legal in Canada as well as many countries in Europe; Switzerland being a notable exception. In the U.S. it's apparently legal; however it's banned from being sold in bars and liquor stores.
So what is this mysterious and sometimes controversial spirit called Absinthe?
My dictionary defines Absinthe or Absinth as a potent aniseed flavoured liqueur. However, most people consider it a liquor or spirit as it isn't bottled with added sugar.
Having said that, there are all sorts of varieties of Absinthe available these days so the possibility of it being a "liqueur" does exist I suppose.
Absinthe is distilled from herbs including anise or aniseed, and wormwood. Absinthe is usually pale to emerald green in colour although there are varieties and brands that are clear and some are even red.
Absinthe Recipe Menu:
How to Mix & Drink Absinthe - Several traditional Absinthe recipes.
Italian Marconi - Love Vermouth? Try this one.
Turf Cocktail - 2 Versions.
More great Absinthe Drink Recipes coming soon!