March 5th marks National Absinthe Day, a holiday dedicated to commemorating an alcoholic beverage that remains one of the least comprehended spirits in consumption. Absinthe, often associated with 19th-century Victorian England, has a historical reputation for being linked to low morality and even madness, though such claims have been debunked over time. Despite the enduring mystery and controversy surrounding absinthe, enthusiasts worldwide come together annually on this day to celebrate its unique character and history.

What is Absinthe?

1. Definition:

   • Absinthe is a distilled, highly alcoholic spirit typically made from botanicals, including the flowers and leaves of the grand wormwood plant (Artemisia absinthium), anise, fennel, and other herbs. It is known for its high alcohol content, usually between 45% and 74% ABV (alcohol by volume), and its distinctive green color, which has earned it the nickname "The Green Fairy."

2. Taste and Preparation:

   • Absinthe has a strong, complex flavor profile dominated by anise and herbal notes. It is traditionally prepared by diluting it with water, which is often poured over a sugar cube placed on a slotted spoon. As the water mixes with the absinthe, the drink becomes cloudy, a process known as "louching," which is caused by the release of essential oils from the herbs.

History and Origins of Absinthe

1. Origins:

   • The origins of absinthe can be traced back to the late 18th century in Switzerland, where it was first produced as a medicinal elixir. The drink gained popularity in France in the 19th century, particularly in Paris, where it became associated with the bohemian lifestyle and was favored by artists, writers, and intellectuals.

2. Cultural Significance:

   • Absinthe was famously consumed by many notable figures in the arts, including Vincent van Gogh, Ernest Hemingway, Oscar Wilde, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. It became a symbol of creativity and rebellion, often linked to the bohemian culture of the time.
   • However, absinthe also became controversial, with rumors and myths surrounding its effects. It was wrongly believed to cause hallucinations and madness due to the presence of thujone, a compound found in wormwood. This led to absinthe being banned in many countries, including the United States, in the early 20th century.

3. The Ban and Revival:

   • Absinthe was banned in the United States in 1912 and in several European countries around the same time. However, modern research has debunked many of the myths about absinthe, showing that thujone levels in properly made absinthe are too low to cause harmful effects.
   • The ban on absinthe was lifted in the United States in 2007, leading to a revival of interest in the drink. Today, absinthe is legally produced and sold in many countries, including the U.S., where it has regained popularity among cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders.

Significance of National Absinthe Day

National Absinthe Day holds significance for several reasons:

1. Celebrating a Unique Spirit:

   • The day is an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate the distinct flavor and rich history of absinthe. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the drink, National Absinthe Day encourages exploration and enjoyment of this unique spirit.

2. Dispelling Myths:

   • National Absinthe Day also serves as a time to dispel the myths and misconceptions that have long surrounded absinthe. Educating people about the true nature of absinthe helps to restore its reputation and encourage responsible enjoyment.

3. Reviving Cocktail Culture:

   • Absinthe plays a key role in many classic cocktails, such as the Sazerac and the Corpse Reviver No. 2. National Absinthe Day encourages people to explore these cocktails and experiment with absinthe in mixology.

4. Appreciating History and Culture:

   • The day provides an opportunity to delve into the history of absinthe and its cultural impact, particularly in the arts. It’s a chance to learn about the artists and writers who were inspired by "The Green Fairy" and how absinthe influenced their work.

How to Celebrate National Absinthe Day

There are many ways to celebrate National Absinthe Day, whether you’re a seasoned absinthe drinker or just curious about this intriguing spirit:

1. Enjoy a Glass of Absinthe:

   • The most traditional way to celebrate is by preparing and enjoying a glass of absinthe. Follow the classic preparation method by slowly pouring cold water over a sugar cube placed on an absinthe spoon. Watch the drink louche and enjoy its unique flavor.

2. Try Absinthe Cocktails:

   • Explore the world of absinthe cocktails by trying classic recipes such as the Sazerac, Death in the Afternoon (a cocktail favored by Hemingway, made with absinthe and champagne), or the Corpse Reviver No. 2. Experiment with different absinthe brands to discover your favorite flavor profile.

3. Learn About Absinthe’s History:

   • Take some time to learn about the history of absinthe, including its origins, cultural significance, and the myths that led to its ban. Reading books, watching documentaries, or visiting websites dedicated to absinthe can provide fascinating insights into this storied drink.

4. Host an Absinthe Tasting:

   • If you have friends who are also interested in absinthe, consider hosting an absinthe tasting. Compare different brands and styles of absinthe, discuss the flavors, and share knowledge about the drink’s history and preparation.

5. Visit a Bar or Distillery:

   • Many bars and distilleries offer absinthe on their menus, particularly on National Absinthe Day. Visit a local establishment to try absinthe cocktails crafted by professional bartenders or take a tour of a distillery that produces absinthe.

6. Share Your Experience on Social Media:

   • Use social media to share your National Absinthe Day celebrations, whether it’s a photo of your absinthe drink, a favorite cocktail recipe, or interesting facts about absinthe. Use hashtags like #NationalAbsintheDay to connect with others who are celebrating.

Fun Facts About Absinthe

• The Green Fairy: Absinthe is often referred to as "The Green Fairy" due to its green color and its reputation for being a muse to artists and writers.

• Louching: The cloudy effect that occurs when water is added to absinthe is called "louching." This happens because the essential oils in the herbs are soluble in alcohol but not in water, causing them to come out of solution and create a milky appearance.

• Absinthe and Art: Absinthe has been immortalized in many famous works of art, including paintings by Edgar Degas, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso, as well as in literature by writers like Ernest Hemingway and Oscar Wilde.

• No Hallucinations: Contrary to popular belief, absinthe does not cause hallucinations. The thujone levels in absinthe are too low to have such an effect, and modern absinthe is perfectly safe when consumed responsibly.

• Absinthe Fountain: A traditional way to prepare absinthe involves using an absinthe fountain, a device that drips cold water over sugar cubes into the absinthe, allowing for a slow and controlled dilution.

Conclusion

National Absinthe Day is a celebration of one of the most intriguing and historically rich spirits in the world. Whether you’re enjoying a classic absinthe cocktail, learning about its storied past, or simply savoring a glass of "The Green Fairy," this day offers a chance to appreciate the unique flavors, cultural significance, and enduring allure of absinthe. As myths are dispelled and absinthe continues to enjoy a resurgence, National Absinthe Day is the perfect time to explore and enjoy this remarkable drink.