Spirit/Liqueur | None

Absinthe

Artemisia absinthium Allergen-Free
Absinthe

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae, Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European (French, Swiss)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grapes (base alcohol), Wormwood, Anise, Fennel, various herbs

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 derived from botanicals, notably wormwood, green anise, and fennel.

Sensory Profile

TasteAnise, Licorice, Bitter, Herbal, Complex, Spicy
TextureViscous (when diluted), Smooth, Warming
AromaStrong Anise, Fennel, Herbal, Menthol, Alcohol
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

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.

Nutrition Facts

Per 30ml
Calories280 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

Always dilute absinthe with iced water, slowly, to achieve the perfect "louche" and mellow its intensity.

Substitutions

Best Match

Pernod/Pastis

1:1

Anise-flavored liqueur, similar louche effect, good for cocktails.

Sambuca

1:1

Sweet, Italian anise liqueur, suitable for specific cocktails or digestifs.

Anisette

1:1

Sweeter and often lower proof anise liqueur, good for general flavoring.

Herbsaint

1:1

Anise-flavored liqueur, specifically created as an absinthe substitute after its ban.

Buying Guide

Look for reputable brands; check for historical accuracy if desired.

Flavor Pairings

Water (with sugar cube) citrus gin vermouth some robust meats.