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Absinthe Ritual There are at least 2 different rituals to drink absinthe - if you consider that you can drink it as shot then there are 3 different rituals. I made some short films to illustrate how to use the 2 rituals (Bohemian and Frensh). You can find them here in our download area:
The traditional Frensh Ritual Because of its bitterness (wormwood) absinthe is traditionally served with 1 - 3 sugar cubes. In the early 1900's it was common and fashionable to put the sugar cubes on a flat, slotted spoon over the glass of absinthe. Then water was slowly dribbled on the cube melting the cube(s). This allows sugar syrup to drip through the holes in the spoon into the absinthe. Most absinthes are best when mixed with about 3 parts water to 1 part absinthe, but this is a matter of personal preference
Another beautiful effect that you will discover when mixing the absinthe with cold water is the "louche" - As water is added the anise oils that are suspended in the absinthe cause the mixture to turn "milky opalescent". An absinthe that produces a good louche is desirable and beautiful. Absinthe that contan little to no anise will not louche .
The Bohemian Absinth(e) Ritual
While Absintheurs that prefer the fine french absinth would never set the sugar cube on fire, it has become a tradition to burn sugar over czech absinth. Place the sugar cubes on the spoon and pour absinthe over them so they might soak it up. Some choose to dip the cubes in the absinth and then place them on the spoon. Set the sugar cubes on fire.The sugar will caremlize and melt allowing melted crops to fall into the absinth. The remaining sugar is then stirred into the drink and cold water is added.
As absinthe usually contains more than 60% alcohol you should be careful with the bohemian ritual. The absinthe in the glass shouldn't begin to burn. Often times the drips of sugar are burning and immediately set the absinthe on fire. Most glassware is not designed to contain a fire and will break.BE CAREFUL
a) Pour absinth over the sugar cube or fip the sugar cube in the absinthe
b) Light the sugar up and wait until its fully caramelized
c) Mix the sugar with the absinthe
d) Add ice cold water and you are ready to enjoy the absinthe !
 (images are copyright BBH Spirits, UK) |
How to drink Absinthe