Traditionally this drink was served with cold water and a cube of sugar because absinthe is very bitter. The sugar was placed on a decorative, nearly flat, slotted absinthe spoon, and water was drizzled over it into the glass, turning the liquid a milky greenish white (called louching).

Absinthe cocktails are becoming quite popular. Use a slotted absinthe spoon to simulate the original, though a silver tea strainer will work just as well.

  • Yields: 1 drink
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Total: Under 5 mins 
  • Active: Under 5 minutes

Ingredients (3)

  • 2 ounces Absente or anise-flavored liqueur
  • 1 sugar cube
  • Ice water to taste

Instructions

  1. Pour the spirits over crushed ice in a chilled glass. Place the absinthe spoon across the rim of the glass, and place the sugar cube in the bowl of the spoon. Slowly drip the water over the sugar to melt the sugar into the glass. Do not stir, as this will diminish the aesthetic.