Paul Kushner
Absinthe drip is a classic method of serving absinthe that involves placing a sugar cube on a slotted spoon over a glass of absinthe and slowly dripping ice water over the sugar cube to dilute the drink. This method is also known as the “French method” and is said to enhance the flavour and aroma of the absinthe.
The absinthe drip is the classic way to serve absinthe. Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit that originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century. Absinthe is made from a variety of herbs, including green anise, grande wormwood, and sweet fennel. The drink has a distinctive green colour and a high ABV, typically around 60-70%.
History
Absinthe, also known as absinth or the green fairy, is a highly alcoholic spirit that originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century. It was invented by Dr. Pierre Ordinaire, a French pharmacist, who created the drink as a cure for various ailments, including malaria and indigestion. The key ingredient in absinthe is wormwood, a plant that contains thujone, a chemical compound that was believed to have medicinal properties.
The popularity of absinthe grew rapidly, and by the mid-19th century, it had become the drink of choice for artists and intellectuals in France. However, as its popularity increased, so did concerns about its safety. Many people believed that the thujone in absinthe was responsible for causing hallucinations and other negative side effects.
In 1915, absinthe was banned in many countries, including France, Switzerland, and the United States. The ban was largely due to a campaign led by temperance advocates who claimed that absinthe was a dangerous and addictive drug. The ban remained in place for several decades, and it was not until the 1990s that absinthe began to be produced and sold legally again in some countries.
Despite its controversial reputation, absinthe has been associated with many famous artists and writers, including Oscar Wilde, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Ernest Hemingway. It is often said that these individuals were inspired by the drink’s unique flavor and its ability to induce a creative and imaginative state of mind.
How to Make It
Absinthe Drip
Making an absinthe drip is a simple yet elegant process that requires a few essential tools and ingredients. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients
- Absinthe
- Water
- Sugar cube (optional)
To make an absinthe drip, you will need the following tools:
- Absinthe glass
- Absinthe spoon
- Slotted absinthe spoon (optional)
- Absinthe fountain (optional)
- Carafe or pitcher
Instructions
- Pour a shot of absinthe into an absinthe glass. Traditionally, absinthe is served in stemmed glasses, although rocks glasses also work well.
- Place the absinthe spoon across the glass. Next, set the sugar cube on top of the spoon. Many people prefer organic sugar because it tends to dissolve quickly and in a uniform fashion.
- If you are using an absinthe fountain, fill it with ice-cold water and set it beside your glass. If you don't have an absinthe fountain, you can use a carafe or pitcher filled with ice-cold water instead.
- Slowly drip ice-cold water from the absinthe fountain or carafe onto the sugar cube. As the water drips onto the sugar cube, it dissolves and drips into the absinthe, creating a milky, cloudy effect known as the louche.
- Continue dripping water until the absinthe is diluted to your liking. The traditional ratio is 3 to 5 parts water to 1 part absinthe, but you can adjust this to your taste.
Once you have diluted the absinthe to your liking, remove the spoon and enjoy your absinthe drip.
Notes
Making an absinthe drip is a fun and sophisticated way to enjoy this classic spirit. With a few simple tools and ingredients, you can create a delicious and visually stunning cocktail that is sure to impress.
Variations
There are many variations to the traditional absinthe drip that can add complexity and depth to your absinthe drinking experience. Here are a few variations to try:
Flavored Sugar Cubes
Instead of using plain sugar cubes, try using flavored sugar cubes. This can add a new dimension to the drink and complement the botanicals in the absinthe. Some popular flavors include vanilla, cinnamon, and lavender.
Different Waters
The type of water used in the absinthe drip can also affect the taste of the drink. Try different types of water, such as mineral water or sparkling water, to see how it affects the flavor.
Different Absinthe Spoons
There are many different types of absinthe spoons available, each with their own unique design. Experiment with different spoons to see how they affect the louche and the overall drinking experience.
Absinthe Cocktails
There are many absinthe cocktails that can be made by using the absinthe drip as a base. One popular cocktail is the Sazerac, which is made with absinthe, sugar, bitters, and a lemon twist.
Different Brands of Absinthe
Not all absinthes are created equal. Experiment with different brands to find one that you like best. Some popular brands include Pernod, Maison Absinthe, and Jade.
Different Accoutrement
There are many different accoutrements that can be used in the absinthe drip, such as a brouilleur or a café brûlot. Experiment with different accoutrements to see how they affect the drink.
Remember that the most important part of the absinthe drip is to dilute the absinthe with ice-cold water. This allows the botanicals in the absinthe to release their oils and create the louche. Whether you choose to experiment with different flavors or stick to the traditional absinthe drip, the ritual of preparing and drinking absinthe is a unique and enjoyable experience.
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