Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of absinthe
- 1 to 2 sugar cubes
- 3 to 5 ounces of ice water (about ¼ cup)
Tools
- Absinthe spoon, slotted silver/metal spoon, or mesh strainer
- Traditional absinthe glass or rocks glass
Instructions
- Measure the absinthe. Pour the absinthe into your glass. If using a traditional absinthe glass, simply fill the reservoir.
- Place the sugar cube. Rest an absinthe spoon (or a flat, slotted spoon) across the rim and set one sugar cube in the center.
- Slowly add ice water. Fill a measuring glass with ice water, the colder the better. Then slowly drip or trickle it over the sugar cube, allowing it to gradually dissolve the sugar into the absinthe. Aim for a ratio of 3 to 5 parts water to 1 part absinthe. As the water hits the spirit, the drink will turn cloudy. This is the louche, a natural reaction where essential oils are released and the aroma opens up.
- Let it settle, then stir if needed. Let the drink rest a moment so the herbal notes can fully bloom. If any sugar remains on the spoon, tip it into the glass and stir gently to dissolve.
Notes
On Equipment
You can order absinthe glasses and spoons from online retailers. A rocks glass or stemmed cocktail glass makes a great substitution for a traditional absinthe glass.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixology
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian