What is Absinthe?

What is Absinthe?

“After the first glass of absinthe, you see things as you wish they were. After the second, you see things as they are not. Finally, you see things as they really are, and that is the most horrible thing in the world.”

— Oscar Wilde

“The Green Fairy”

Absinthe is a botanical spirit crafted from a blend of ingredients, including the flowers and leaves of Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), green anise, sweet fennel, and various other herbs. Due to its high alcohol content, absinthe was banned in the United States in 1912 and remained prohibited until its legalization in 2007. Its reputation for causing hallucinations—though largely a myth—earned it the legendary nickname “The Green Fairy”.

Wormwood

The primary ingredient in absinthe is wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), the herb that gives the spirit its name and distinct character. Wormwood contains thujone, a compound once thought to have psychoactive properties. However, modern studies have shown that the levels of thujone in absinthe are far too low to produce hallucinogenic effects.

Anise

Anise is one of the key botanicals in absinthe, providing its signature licorice-like flavor and aroma. This spice, derived from the seeds of the Pimpinella anisum plant, enhances the drink's herbal complexity and contributes to its distinctive taste. Anise also plays a crucial role in the traditional "louche" effect, where absinthe turns cloudy when water is added, as the essential oils from the anise react with the water to create this iconic visual transformation.

“Louching”

Absinthe is renowned for its distinctive preparation ritual known as “louching.” This traditional method begins with pouring absinthe into a glass, then placing a slotted spoon atop the glass with a sugar cube resting on it. Ice-cold water is gently dripped over the sugar cube, typically using an absinthe fountain or a carafe. As the water mixes with the absinthe, the liquid transforms into a cloudy, milky appearance, a result of essential oils from the botanicals being released.

The Bohemian Revolution

The mere mention of "absinthe" evokes vivid images of a bygone era, a world steeped in beauty, creativity, controversy, and intrigue.

Initially crafted as a distilled folk remedy in the Swiss countryside, absinthe began as a humble tonic of rural Franco-Swiss culture. Its unique allure caught the attention of an enterprising businessman, who, captivated by its mystique, introduced the world to the iconic green spirit in 1805.

By the 19th century, absinthe had become a defining symbol of France’s Belle Époque, the “Beautiful Era.” It inspired countless artists, including Van Gogh, Manet and Degas, who saw the world through the haze of its emerald allure. Picasso painted it, and Hemingway created drinks with it.

Absinthe was believed to be hallucinogenic, a myth that may have originated from low-quality, poorly made versions of the drink that caused adverse effects. However, the claim was largely unfounded and gained traction through the temperance movement of the 1920s, which used it as a tool to promote prohibition.

Due to absinthe's hallucinogenic mythology, the green spirit was illegal in Europe and the US for almost 100 years. It became popular in the 1840s, but started to be mistakenly associated with violent crimes. People started to believe it and had absinthe banned, making absinthe illegal in the United States from 1912 to 2007. Modern research has confirmed absinthe is no more harmful than any other alcohol.

“Absinthe is the aphrodisiac of the self.

The green fairy who lives in the absinthe wants your soul.

But you are safe with me...”

— Dracula

La Nouvelle Orléans & The Rebirth of Absinthe

During the height of absinthe's popularity, across the Atlantic in New Orleans—affectionately known as "Little Paris"—the Creole community embraced a vibrant café culture, with The Old Absinthe House at its heart in the French Quarter.

However, absinthe’s meteoric rise met a dramatic downfall. Its bittersweet popularity became the scapegoat for societal woes, driven by bad science, moral panic, and political agendas. The cloudy green drink was banned, and absinthe faded into obscurity.

Nearly a century later, with the benefit of sound science, changing perceptions, and supportive legislation, absinthe has been revived. The Green Fairy, vindicated at last, once again graces glasses around the world, reclaiming her place as a symbol of artistry and enchantment.

Where to Find Absinthe in New Orleans

The Southern Food and Beverage Museum

La Galerie de l'Absinthe

1504 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd

Founded by Raymond Bordelon, La Galerie de l'Absinthe at The Southern Food and Beverage Museum is dedicated to educating visitors and preserving the rich history of this unique spirit. Showcasing an extensive collection of absinthe artifacts—including vintage bottles, absinthe spoons, cocktail recipes, and ornate absinthe fountains—the exhibit delves deep into the world of absinthe. Visitors are taken on a journey through its early days, highlighting its romantic ties to writers, artists, and bohemians, its prohibition era, and its enduring connection to the city of New Orleans.

The Original Old Absinthe House

240 Bourbon Street

The iconic and historic Old Absinthe House, located at the corner of Bienville and Bourbon Streets, is a New Orleans landmark with a storied past. Initially built by Pedro Front and Francisco Juncadelia of Barcelona, the building originally housed their importing firm. For forty years, it operated as a corner grocery, trading food, tobacco, and Spanish liquor.

In 1815, the ground floor was transformed into a saloon called "Aleix's Coffee House," which later became "The Absinthe Room" when renowned mixologist Cayetano Ferrer created the iconic Absinthe House Frappé there in 1874. This cocktail became a favorite of literary legends such as Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde.

During Prohibition, the bar and its fixtures were relocated to 400 Bourbon Street to preserve its legacy. Operating as "The Absinthe House Bar," this speakeasy served bootleg liquor, keeping the spirit of the Original Old Absinthe House alive during a turbulent era.

The Sazerac Bar

130 Roosevelt Way

The Sazerac Bar, nestled within the Roosevelt Hotel, offers a quintessential New Orleans experience. Known for its namesake cocktail—the official drink of the city—the Sazerac features a classic blend of Sazerac Rye, Peychaud's Bitters, sugar, and Herbsaint. Relax on the elegant barstools and immerse yourself in an atmosphere that beautifully captures the charm and sophistication of vintage New Orleans.

Pirate's Alley Café

622 Pirate Alley

Pirate's Alley Café is a nod to the pirates who once roamed the streets of New Orleans. Here, you can enjoy absinthe served to your preference, with no fixed menu—just order what you desire at the bar. This cozy café offers a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind, spend time with friends and family, and soak in the rich history of pirates and absinthe.

Jewel of the South

1026 St. Louis Street

Jewel of the South is a hidden gem located just outside the French Quarter. Known for its signature Jewel Sazerac, this cocktail combines bold flavors with a straightforward preparation: stir with ice, strain into a rocks glass, serve up, and garnish with a twist of lemon peel. Inside, the brick walls and lanterns create a cozy tavern-like atmosphere, while the intimate outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a serene space to enjoy your drink.

Cure

4905 Freret Street

Cure, once an old Uptown firehouse, has been transformed into a stylish bar. One of its standout offerings is the Fancy Sazerac, crafted with High West Rye, Nouvelle Orleans Absinthe, and a twist of lemon peel. The bar also features a hidden patio, providing a peaceful outdoor setting where you can enjoy your Fancy Sazerac or explore Cure's extensive cocktail menu.