The green drink you are referring to is called absinthe. This unique beverage has a long and fascinating history, and it is often associated with mystery and intrigue. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of delving into the world of absinthe and exploring its origins, flavors, and cultural significance.
Absinthe is known for its distinct green color, which is achieved through the infusion of various herbs, most notably Artemisia absinthium, or grande wormwood. This herb is the key ingredient in absinthe and gives it its characteristic flavor and aroma. In addition to grande wormwood, absinthe is also made with other botanicals such as anise, fennel, and various herbs and spices.
The production of absinthe involves a distillation process, where the herbs and botanicals are steeped in high-proof alcohol and then distilled to create a concentrated spirit. The resulting distillate is then diluted with water to achieve the desired alcohol content, typically ranging from 45% to 74% ABV.
Absinthe has a strong anise flavor, which is reminiscent of licorice. This distinctive taste can be quite polarizing, as some people love it while others find it overpowering. Personally, I find the anise flavor to be quite intriguing and complex, adding a unique twist to the overall drinking experience.
One of the most intriguing aspects of absinthe is its historical association with the bohemian culture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It gained popularity among artists, writers, and intellectuals, who were drawn to its supposed creative and hallucinogenic effects. This led to absinthe being banned in many countries for several decades, as it was believed to be a dangerous and addictive substance.
However, modern scientific research has debunked many of the myths surrounding absinthe, and it is now legal in most countries. The hallucinogenic properties were found to be greatly exaggerated, and the effects of absinthe are similar to other high-alcohol spirits. That being said, absinthe does have a slightly different alcohol experience due to the presence of certain herbs and botanicals.
When it comes to serving absinthe, there is a traditional ritual that is often followed. This involves using a slotted spoon placed over a glass, with a sugar cube placed on top. Ice-cold water is slowly dripped onto the sugar cube, which then dissolves and mixes with the absinthe, creating a cloudy, louche effect. This ritual is not only visually appealing but also helps to dilute the strong spirit and mellow out the flavors.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in absinthe, with craft distilleries and enthusiasts experimenting with different recipes and flavors. This has led to a wide variety of absinthe styles and expressions, ranging from traditional recipes to modern interpretations.
Absinthe is a highly alcoholic, anise-flavored spirit derived from herbs, with grande wormwood being the key ingredient. Its distinct green color and complex flavor profile make it a fascinating drink to explore. Whether enjoyed traditionally or in modern cocktails, absinthe offers a unique and memorable drinking experience.