What does Absinthe Ordinaire taste like?

Answered by Rodney Landry

Absinthe Ordinaire is a complex and unique spirit that offers a delightful taste experience. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and studying this iconic drink. Let me take you on a journey through its flavor profile, using explicit descriptions and avoiding unnecessary repetition.

1. Absinthe Ordinaire's Anise Notes:
One of the prominent flavors in Absinthe Ordinaire is anise. Anise is a licorice-like botanical that imparts a distinct sweet and herbal flavor to the spirit. The sweet anise used in Absinthe Ordinaire adds a pleasant depth and richness to the overall taste. It is worth noting that anise can be quite polarizing, and if you are not a fan of licorice flavors, you may find this aspect of Absinthe Ordinaire less appealing.

2. Star Anise's Spicy Undertones:
In addition to sweet anise, Absinthe Ordinaire also incorporates star anise. Star anise brings a subtle spiciness to the spirit, enhancing its complexity. The combination of sweet anise and star anise creates a harmonious balance of flavors, with the spiciness adding a pleasant twist to the overall taste profile.

3. Sweet Balm's Herbal Nuances:
Another botanical that contributes to the flavor of Absinthe Ordinaire is sweet balm. Sweet balm, also known as lemon balm, brings a delicate herbal note to the spirit. It adds a touch of freshness and a hint of citrus, which complements the anise flavors beautifully. The presence of sweet balm adds a nuanced layer to the overall taste, making Absinthe Ordinaire more than just a licorice-forward drink.

4. Mugwort's Passion-Stirring Rumors:
Now, let's talk about the intriguing inclusion of mugwort in Absinthe Ordinaire. Mugwort has long been associated with stirring human passions, and while there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, it adds an air of mystery to the spirit. As a sommelier, I believe that the inclusion of mugwort adds a subtle earthiness to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall complexity of Absinthe Ordinaire.

5. Peppermint's Refreshing Finish:
Lastly, peppermint plays a role in shaping the taste profile of Absinthe Ordinaire. Peppermint brings a refreshing and cooling sensation to the spirit, which can be felt on the palate as you sip. This minty note adds a touch of brightness and liveliness, balancing out the sweetness and herbal aspects of the other botanicals.

Absinthe Ordinaire offers a unique and flavorful taste profile. Its combination of sweet anise, star anise, sweet balm, mugwort, and peppermint creates a complex and harmonious blend of flavors. The licorice-like notes from anise and star anise, along with the herbal nuances from sweet balm and the mysterious touch of mugwort, make Absinthe Ordinaire a spirit worth experiencing. The refreshing finish of peppermint adds a delightful twist to the overall taste. So, if you're looking for a spirit that is both intriguing and delicious, give Absinthe Ordinaire a try.