Absinthe: Is that Absent with a Lisp?

There is a lot of mystique and intrigue around Absinthe. The spirit was banned in the United States at some point in the early 1900s due to its apparent effects on the mind. The chemical thujone was thought to be to blame for the hallucinogenic effects on heavy Absinthe drinkers but recent studies found only large amounts of the chemical caused a physical reaction and even then, no hallucinations. I don't think it was the Absinthe that was the problem. The clue there is heavy drinkers. Jack Daniels has the same effect.

My guess is that Absinthe was branded as a hallucinogen because it was favored among creative types. They claimed to create and think differently while intoxicated. These folks are naturally prone to thinking outside the box when sober. Absinthe just happened to be their drink of choice.

I'm sure there are die-hard fans of Absinthe out there that would disagree with my opinion. The reason for disagreement would probably come from the desire to protect Absinthe's mystique. I don't blame them for wanting to protect its history and reputation. Drinking Absinthe is an experience. After all, Absinthe has its own specially designed glass, artistically designed slotted spoons and step-by-step processes and recipes that are all part of the intrigue that is the Absinthe experience. Because of the steps involved with preparing the drink, it has a ritualistic feel that only adds to its mystique and magnetic effect on those who are susceptible to enjoying ritualistic encounters.

For those of us who are just plain curious about Absinthe, its flavor and mixing possibilities, Viridian LLC released a brand of Absinthe with a dose of thujone that is low enough to pass US requirements bringing authentic Absinthe back to the US for the first time in almost 95 years. Currently, it is in limited supply in New York with plans for more significant quantities throughout the summer as well as online sales.