The History of Absinthe

“The Absinthe Drinker” by Viktor Olivia, 1901, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. Today it hangs on the wall of Viktor’s favorite cafe, the Slavia, in Prague.

"Absinthe makes you crazy and criminal, provokes epilepsy and tuberculosis, and has killed thousands of French people. It makes a ferocious beast of man, a martyr of woman, and a degenerate of the infant; it disorganizes and ruins the family, and menaces the future of the country."

— Marie Corelli

The History of Absinthe

Absinthe boasts a fascinating and colorful history that stretches back to the 18th century. Here's a brief overview of its historical journey:

Origins in Switzerland (18th Century)

Absinthe's origins can be traced to the late 1700s in Switzerland. It is believed that Dr. Pierre Ordinaire, a French doctor living in Switzerland, created an herbal tonic using wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) as a primary ingredient. This elixir was initially intended for medicinal use.

Popularization in France (19th Century)

In the early 19th century, absinthe gained significant popularity in France. French soldiers stationed in Switzerland during the Algerian War are credited with developing a taste for the drink, which they brought back to France. By the mid-1800s, absinthe had become a widely enjoyed beverage in French society.

"Absinthe is the only decent drink that suits an artist."

— Paul Verlaine

Artistic Movement & Bohemian Culture

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, absinthe had become closely linked with the bohemian lifestyle, particularly among artists, writers, and intellectuals. Famous figures such as Vincent van Gogh, Paul Verlaine, Arthur Rimbaud, and Oscar Wilde were known to indulge in absinthe, with many seeing it as a muse for creativity and a symbol of rebellion.

"For, surely, drunkenness is a disease and abstinence is health."

— Ernest Dowson

Controversy and Prohibition

As absinthe's popularity grew, so did controversy. Concerns surrounding its high alcohol content and the presence of thujone, a compound found in wormwood, led to moral and political opposition. Allegations that absinthe caused hallucinations and insanity contributed to its prohibition. In the early 20th century, several countries, including the United States and much of Europe, enacted bans on the production and sale of absinthe.

"Absinthe has the power of an archangel and the venom of the devil."

— Victor Hugo

Modern Resurgence

By the latter half of the 20th century, the ban on absinthe began to ease. Research revealed that the thujone content in absinthe was not as high as once feared, leading to its legalization in various regions. In the 1990s, a renewed interest in absinthe sparked a revival in the market.

Today, absinthe is enjoyed around the world, with a newfound appreciation for its historical significance and unique flavor. It has become both a symbol of the bohemian past and a key player in the modern resurgence of artisanal spirits. For those seeking to explore more, visit Difford's Guide for the 20 best absinthe cocktails.

National Absinthe Day

On March 5, National Absinthe Day invites us to indulge in the allure of the iconic "green fairy." Originating in 18th-century Switzerland, absinthe rose to fame in early 20th-century France, becoming a favorite among artists and writers. Today, this enigmatic drink continues to captivate with its deep ties to bohemian culture, making it the perfect choice for a memorable celebration.