Legendary Originial Absinthe No Longer Banned
Jim Hofman
If you're a fan of legendary specialty liquors, you'll be please to know that original absinthe, know for its unique effects on imbibers, is now available via specialty online suppliers.
Abinthe is a legendary liquor that has been banned worldwide since the early 20th century. Made famous in 19th century artistic circles, absinthe was well known for the unique, almost hallucinogenic effects on drinkers. This effect is due to absinthe's active ingredient wormwood, a type of specialty herb.
Absinthe's banning may or may not have stemmed from exaggerated accounts of its hallucinogenic properties, but it was a preferred drink of many famous authors and artists, including Vincent Van Gogh and Ernest Hemingway. Van Gogh was supposedly accompanied by an empty bottle of absinthe when he sliced off his ear in order to gain the attention of an estranged lover. Meanwhile, Hemingway frequently noted that absinthe seemed to enhance his creativity and passion for writing.
In actuality, absinthe was banned worldwide due to poor distilling techniques over 100 years ago. That, and a misconception about the supposed "powers" of absinthe, maintained the ban until it was lifted in 2007.
Absinthe is primarily made in Europe, and when served properly is a highly interesting and enjoyable drink. Since absinthe is very high in alcohol content, it should be consumed sparingly, just like any other high alcohol spirit. Interestingly, its prominent ingredient has reported many absinthe drinkers to say they remain remarkably clear headed despite imbibing in a 140 proof cocktail.
Absinthe's main active ingredient, thujone, is found naturally in many flowers and plants. Thujone supposedly creates a pleasant, creative effect when consumed, which may be why there is now a renewed interest in absinthe. There are traditional ways to serve and drink absinthe, most notably a process called louching (pronounced loosh-ing).
The louching method is simple. Four elements are needed, a cocktail glass, slotted spoon, a sugar cube, and of course the absinthe. Here's what you do: pour a jigger of absinthe into the glass, then place the sugar cube onto the slotted spoon and hold it directly over the glass. Then, pour 5-6 ounces of ice water over the sugar cube into the glass. The sugar will dissolve directly into the glass of absinthe.
Look What Happens
Watch what happens as the sugar cube dissolves into the absinthe. If you're using original absinthe, it will change colors into an opaque, cloudy green. Now, hold the glass up to your nose. You'll notice the fragrant aroma of anise and licorice. And now you're ready to enjoy!
When you taste absinthe, you may be reminded of pernod. To me, this is a valid comparison but in my estimation, original absinthe has a somewhat stronger taste as well as a more pronounced feel on the palate.
Absinthe is an historic, traditional cocktail that is just now resurfacing due to the absinthe ban being lifted in 2007. Try a European variety to experience the taste and tradition. Who knows, abinthe may even bring out your creative talent!
Original absinthe is kcurrentlyn as the King of Spirits, and is currently available after a worldwide ban was lifted in 2007. Try a traditional European variety, and visit us for more original absinthe recommendations, including http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-2621620-10446677) How To Drink Absinthe .
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