As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some insights into absinthe and its thujone content. Thujone is a chemical compound found in wormwood, one of the key ingredients in absinthe. It was believed for a long time that thujone was responsible for the hallucinogenic effects of absinthe, although recent research has shown that this is not entirely accurate.
Now, coming to your question about the absinthe with the highest thujone content, there are a few brands that are known for their high thujone levels. Bairnsfather and King of Spirits are two such absinthes. Bairnsfather has a thujone content of 32 mg/l, while King of Spirits boasts an astonishing 100 mg/l of thujone.
It is important to note that while these absinthes may have high thujone content, they are not necessarily considered “good” absinthes by connoisseurs. The reason for this is that the quality of an absinthe is determined by various factors such as the balance of flavors, the use of quality ingredients, and the distillation process, among others. High thujone content alone does not guarantee a superior absinthe.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste absinthes with varying thujone levels. While some absinthes with higher thujone content may provide a more pronounced herbal and bitter flavor, they can also be overpowering and unbalanced. It is important to find a balance between the thujone content and the overall taste profile of the absinthe.
When it comes to absinthe, the focus should be on the overall experience rather than solely on thujone content. Factors such as aroma, color, louche (the clouding effect when water is added), and the complexity of flavors all contribute to the enjoyment of this unique spirit.
To summarize, while Bairnsfather and King of Spirits are absinthes known for their high thujone content, they may not necessarily be considered “good” absinthes by connoisseurs. It is important to consider other factors such as flavor profile, balance, and overall quality when choosing an absinthe.