Absinthe occupies a special place among strong alcoholic beverages. Depending on the producer and variety, the alcohol content of the drink varies from 45% to 89.9%. However, in most cases, absinthe has an alcohol strength of 70 degrees. It is an infusion of high-quality distillate on various herbs. The characteristic green, yellowish color and bitter-spicy taste are given by wormwood. Some producers enrich the traditional recipe with various natural additives. Therefore, on store shelves, you can find not only traditional varieties but also alcohol of red and blue colors. Depending on the brand and composition, the prices for absinthe vary. Let's tell you more about the types of this alcohol.
Types of Absinthe
The main producers of absinthe are companies from Switzerland, France, the Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, and Italy. The exact recipe of each brand is a manufacturer's secret. But the main ingredients remain unchanged:
- high-proof alcohol;
- bitter wormwood;
- anise;
- mint;
- coriander.
Green or yellow absinthe is produced using classical technology. The drink acquires its color due to wormwood. The hue of the alcohol comes from chlorophyll and its reaction to light. To reduce the effects of the reaction, absinthe is poured into dark bottles made of light-protective glass. Transparent absinthe is produced with the addition of wormwood extract, thus lacking the characteristic color. The red color is given to absinthe by hibiscus flowers, and pomegranate extract may also be used. The blue and violet color is achieved by adding food coloring to the composition. Producers aim to attract consumers with the unusual appearance of the alcohol. Natural additives, such as blue lotus or the fruits of the Brazilian vine Paullinia cupana, are extremely rare. The taste of absinthe also varies depending on the color. The composition of the components affects the bouquet. A wide assortment of alcohol is presented in the Maudau alcoholic shop. You can choose a drink according to your preferences.
How to Drink Absinthe
Few dare to consume absinthe in its pure form. Both the 70% strength and the dense bitter-sweet taste are deterrents. If you belong to the few who are ready to try absinthe without diluting it, chill the drink as much as possible to mask the alcohol strength and harsh notes of the bouquet. Drink the alcohol in one gulp from a small shot glass.
The most popular way to consume absinthe is with water, juice, tonic, or soda. To determine the optimal concentration by eye, place a special perforated spoon over a glass filled a third full with pure absinthe. On it, place a piece of sugar cube. Pour cold water or another non-alcoholic drink over the sugar until the mix acquires a white hue. This reaction is caused by the sudden cooling of essential oils. This is the appropriate concentration for consumption.