Dr. Ahmed Green fairy, better known as absinthe, is famous for its strong anise taste and rich history. Because of its flavor, it has fascinated people for several years now.
Even though people think that this drink causes hallucinations, that is actually a myth. This cocktail must be handled properly while mixing and drinking.
However, apart from mixing it with water to make it cloudy, it could also be used as a base for making tasty cocktails.
Understanding Absinthe
Before we get into more details it is important to understand its rich and a little controversial history.
The louche effect:
Louche (pronounced loo-sh) is the most interesting factor of absinthe cocktails. It is actually the cloudiness that appears when you add water.
This comes from essential oils in the anise and fennel, which do not mix with strong alcohol but do mix with water.
Also, this louche is not a sign of good or bad quality as it is just a natural chemical reaction.
While making an absinthe drink, a spoon with a hole in it is used so that water drips slowly over sugar cubes. This creates gradual dilution, and eventually, the louche effect is visible.
Absinthe’s decline and revival:
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the “Green Fairy” was extremely famous among artists and writers.
However, false rumors about its health effects and its connection to the bohemian culture led to a ban on its use in many countries in the mid-20th century.
Thankfully, stronger regulations and a new admiration for its wonderful taste have led to its comeback recently.
Absinthe fans now love to try it in different styles and add this great drink to cocktails.
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Absinthe’s spectrum of flavors
Absinthe comes in a variety of styles, each with its own flavor profile.
French (pontarlier):
- Green-hued, strong anise flavor with herbal complexity.
Swiss:
- Pale yellow, less intense anise with floral notes.
Blanche (white):
- Clear or pale yellow, subtle anise, and other botanicals.
The art of absinthe cocktails
While some enjoy absinthe neat, it is more enjoyable when used in cocktails. Here is what to keep in mind when mixing:
Start small:
- Absinthe’s high proof demands a measured approach. Begin with a quarter-ounce or less per drink.
Balance is key:
- Anise can be overpowering. Use complimentary flavors like citrus, fruit, and herbs to create harmony.
Embrace the louche:
- The cloudy effect when water is added is a natural phenomenon, not a sign of impurity.
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8 Absinthe Cocktail Recipe Ideas
Below are some recipes to explore the amazing world of absinthe cocktails!
1. Death in the Afternoon (Hemingway’s favorite)
This blend is simple, but it has strong properties:
- Iced champagne
- 1 ounce Absinthe (preferred Swiss or French)
Fill a chilled glass with absinthe, then gradually pour in champagne to see the layers separate.
2. La fée verte (the green fairy)
This energizing highball shows the role of absinthe’s herbal aspects.
- 1 Ounce Absinthe (Blanche performs well here)
- 3 Ounce ginger ale
- 2 Dashes Angostura bitters
Combine absinthe and bitters in a tall glass with ice. Top with ginger ale. Garnish with a lime wedge.
3. The last word (an absinthe sour twist)
This cocktail incorporates the essence of absinthe’s anise and plays a vital role in this sour twist.
- 1 ounce absinthe
- 3/4 oz lime juice
- 3/4 ounce luxardo maraschino liqueur
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
Shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Top with a Luxardo cherry for a better presentation.
4. Bohemian mule (a spicy twist on the Moscow mule)
You can incorporate absinthe’s magical touch into a twist on the Moscow mule.
- 1 oz Absinthe
- 2 oz Ginger beer
- 1/2 oz Lime juice
- Ginger slices (for dressing)
You need a copper mug filled with ice and pour in a mix of lime juice, ginger beer, and absinthe. Top with ginger slices.
5. Fairy godmother (a tropical delight)
This energetic cocktail combines sweet and sour tropical flavors with absinthe:
- 1 oz Absinthe
- 3/4 oz Elderflower liqueur
- 3/4 oz Fresh pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz Fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
Now, shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
6. Corpse Reviver no. 2 (a pick-me-up with a kick)
An additional layer of intricacy is added to this classic with the help of absinthe.
- 1 oz Gin
- 1 oz Absinthe
- 1 oz Lillet blanc
- 1 oz Fresh lemon juice
- Absinthe rinse (optional)
Rinse a chilled coupe glass with a small amount of absinthe and swirl, then discard the absinthe. Shake the rest of the ingredients well with ice and strain into the rinsed glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
7. French connection (an absinthe & cognac rendezvous)
This refined cocktail combines the power of absinthe with the enhancement of cognac:
- 1 1/2 oz Cognac
- 3/4 oz Absinthe (French or Pontarlier)
- 1/2 oz Sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
Stir all items with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with an orange peel over the drink.
8. Absinthe julep (a summertime refresher)
A refreshing summer drink blends absinthe’s herbal flavors with the classic mint julep.
- 2 Ounce bourbon
- 1/2 Ounce Absinthe (blanche or swiss)
- 1/2 Ounce simple syrup
- Mint sprig
In a rocks glass, muddle the mint sprig with simple syrup. Stir gently with a combination of bourbon and absinthe over crushed ice. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig over the drink.
