Forktionary

Absinthe

Artemisia absinthium (wormwood base) Spirit/Liqueur

Absinthe Spirit/Liqueur

At a Glance

  • Category Spirit/Liqueur

The Forktionary Angle

"Known as "La Fée Verte" (The Green Fairy), it was once banned in many countries due to its supposed hallucinogenic properties, now largely debunked."

Definition

A high-proof, anise-flavored spirit distilled from botanicals, notably wormwood, green anise, and fennel, famous for its emerald green color.

Alcohol By Volume (ABV) Typically 45-74% (90-148 proof).
Key Botanical Artemisia absinthium (wormwood).
Traditional Serving Drip cold water over a sugar cube on an absinthe spoon.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Absinthe are:

Strong anise licorice herbal bitter complex sometimes floral

Chef’s Secret

A few drops can add a fascinating herbal complexity to certain sauces (especially for seafood or lamb) or even chocolate desserts.

Best Substitutes

Pastis

for anise flavor
Ratio 1:1

Sambuca

for anise flavor, sweeter
Ratio 1:1

Pernod

for anise flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for "Verte" (green) or "Blanche" (clear) and check for traditional distillation methods.

Culinary Pairings

Water sugar citrus gin vermouth specific cocktails like Sazerac