I tried absinth long ago but had heard the absinth bars in Prague are worth visiting and absinth is sold everywhere. Absinth, without the 'e' is how it's spelt for absinthes produced in Central and Eastern Europe aka Bohemian style absinthes. So, when in Czech, we'll spell it the Czech way.
What is Absinth? Well according to google it's a highly alcoholic bevvie known for its distinct green colour (commonly referred to as la fée verte 'the green fairy'), anise flavour and for its hallucinogenic effects - that will be due to the wormwood. It originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century and became popular in France where it was often the favoured choice of artists and writers.
I can't remember the name of the place we went to - spur of the moment thing as we walked by. We were there to try the Czech or Bohemian style which is made by mixing the base with flavourings and sugar. Is it legal? While it was banned in many countries, it's since been legalised in many places, including here.
Anyway, it was a very colourful and funky place that we found ourselves in and after a bit of oohing and aahing, we sat ourselves down and awaited enlightenment. The Absinth menu was extensive, so having absolutely no idea what we were doing, we chose three based on their names. Our waiter came along bearing a trolly and all the gizmos that go along with the ritual of preparing our chosen drink. There is a holey spoon (as in it had slits, not any religious significance - although who knows, maybe we were about to see God). There is sugar involved and the liquid is pored through a sugar cube and tbh, I can't remember much else - more to do with memory than any long-lasting effects of the absinth. I did take a video, maybe I need to go back and review.
Taste? It's not great. We tried adding a bit more sugar. Minimal improvement. Effects? People say it makes you see the Green Fairy. In reality, the only thing you’ll see is your own reflection asking, “Why did we think this was a good idea?”
Absinth doesn’t give you a hangover. It gives you a story. Usually one that begins with “So I swear I wasn’t drunk, but…” And really the rest, we'll just make up as it will make for a better story. The place was really cool - albeit pricey, so glad we tried one. Were we tempted by a second? Nope. Would I go to another? Well I still want to try the one in London, so I guess that's a yes.
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