As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of the difference between absinthe and Absente. Absinthe, originally created in the late 18th century, is a highly aromatic and dazzling emerald green liqueur. It is made from a combination of various botanicals, including an herb called Wormwood, which gives it its distinct flavor and bitter notes.
Absinthe has a rich history and was quite popular among artists and writers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was often referred to as “the green fairy” and became synonymous with creativity and inspiration. However, due to its high alcohol content and the presence of a compound called thujone in Wormwood, absinthe was banned in many countries for several decades.
Absente, on the other hand, is a modern version of absinthe that was developed to comply with the regulations and restrictions imposed on absinthe production. While it still retains the vibrant green color and aromatic profile of absinthe, Absente differs in one significant aspect – the botanical Wormwood is replaced with its less bitter cousin, Southern-Wormwood.
By using Southern-Wormwood instead of Wormwood, Absente achieves a similar flavor profile to absinthe but with a milder and less pronounced bitterness. This modification allows Absente to be legally produced and distributed in countries where absinthe is prohibited or heavily regulated.
In terms of taste, absinthe often exhibits a complex and intense flavor profile. It can have a strong herbal character, with notes of anise, fennel, and various other botanicals. The bitterness from Wormwood adds depth to the overall taste experience. Absente, on the other hand, offers a more approachable and less bitter flavor profile, making it more accessible to a wider range of palates.
In terms of personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste both absinthe and Absente on multiple occasions. Absinthe, with its intense and bitter flavor, can be an acquired taste for some individuals. The strong herbal notes and lingering bitterness can be overwhelming for those who prefer milder spirits. Absente, with its smoother and less bitter profile, can be a good alternative for those who want to explore the world of absinthe without being put off by its strong flavors.
To summarize, the main difference between absinthe and Absente lies in the botanical used. Absinthe contains Wormwood, which contributes to its distinctive bitterness, while Absente replaces Wormwood with Southern-Wormwood, resulting in a milder and less bitter flavor profile. Both absinthe and Absente offer a unique and aromatic experience, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and tolerance for bitterness.