Lucid Absinthe Supérieure is a modern take on a classic spirit that has captivated the imaginations of drinkers, artists, and writers for centuries. As a spirits expert, I’m thrilled to explore the details and nuances of this absinthe, from its proof to its rich history, production methods, and cultural significance. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of Lucid Absinthe, its alcohol content, and why it stands out in the world of absinthes.
The Revival of Absinthe
A Brief History of Absinthe
Absinthe, often referred to as “the green fairy,” originated in the late 18th century in Switzerland. Its popularity soared in France during the 19th century, becoming the drink of choice for many artists and writers, including Vincent van Gogh, Oscar Wilde, and Ernest Hemingway. Absinthe was known for its high alcohol content and the unique ritual of serving it with a sugar cube and cold water.
However, by the early 20th century, absinthe faced widespread bans due to concerns over its alleged hallucinogenic properties and potential for causing madness and criminal behavior. These concerns were largely fueled by misinformation and moral panic, rather than scientific evidence.
The Modern Comeback
In the late 20th century, renewed interest in absinthe led to the re-evaluation of its legality. Modern research debunked many of the myths surrounding absinthe, particularly the belief that thujone, a compound found in wormwood, caused hallucinations. This paved the way for absinthe’s revival, and by the early 2000s, absinthe was once again legally available in many countries.
Lucid Absinthe: An Overview
Introduction to Lucid Absinthe
Lucid Absinthe Supérieure is one of the pioneering brands responsible for reintroducing absinthe to the American market after the ban was lifted. Launched in 2007, Lucid was the first genuine absinthe made with real grande wormwood to be legally available in the United States since 1912. It was created by T.A. Breaux, a renowned absinthe expert and historian, in collaboration with Viridian Spirits.
Production and Ingredients
Lucid Absinthe is produced in France using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. It is crafted at the Combier Distillery in Saumur, located in the Loire Valley, a distillery with a long history dating back to the 19th century. The production process involves macerating a blend of botanicals, including grande wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), green anise, and sweet fennel, in high-proof alcohol. The mixture is then distilled, resulting in a clear spirit that is later colored naturally using additional herbs.
Tasting Notes
Lucid Absinthe has a vibrant green color, a characteristic feature of traditional absinthes. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of anise, fennel, and other herbal notes. The palate is equally intricate, with a balanced interplay of sweetness, herbal bitterness, and spice. The finish is long and refreshing, leaving a pleasant, lingering taste.
Understanding Proof and Alcohol Content
What Is Proof?
In the context of alcoholic beverages, “proof” is a measure of the strength or alcohol content of the spirit. The concept of proof varies between countries, but in the United States, proof is calculated as twice the percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV). For example, a spirit with 50% ABV is 100 proof.
The Proof of Lucid Absinthe
Lucid Absinthe has an ABV of 62%, making it 124 proof. This high proof is typical of traditional absinthes, which were known for their potent alcohol content. The elevated proof of Lucid Absinthe not only reflects its authenticity but also plays a crucial role in the louche effect—a cloudy, opalescent transformation that occurs when absinthe is diluted with water.
The Louche Ritual
The Traditional Absinthe Ritual
One of the most iconic aspects of absinthe is the way it is traditionally prepared and served. The ritual involves a few key steps:
Pouring the Absinthe: A small amount of absinthe (usually around 1 ounce) is poured into a glass.
Placing the Absinthe Spoon: A specially designed absinthe spoon with perforations is placed over the glass, holding a sugar cube.
Dripping the Water: Cold water is slowly dripped over the sugar cube, allowing it to dissolve and mix with the absinthe. This can be done using a fountain or a carafe.
Watching the Louche: As the water mixes with the absinthe, the spirit louches, turning a milky, opalescent color. This transformation is due to the essential oils from the botanicals becoming insoluble in the diluted alcohol.
The Importance of the Louche
The louche is not just a visual spectacle; it also enhances the aroma and flavor of the absinthe. The slow addition of water releases the essential oils, intensifying the herbal complexity and making the absinthe more palatable by reducing its strength. For Lucid Absinthe, the louche effect is particularly pronounced, resulting in a beautifully cloudy drink with a rich bouquet of scents and flavors.
See Also: What Is Peated Bourbon?
Lucid Absinthe in Cocktails
Classic Absinthe Cocktails
While the traditional louche ritual is the most popular way to enjoy absinthe, Lucid Absinthe can also be used in various cocktails. Here are a few classic absinthe cocktails that highlight its unique characteristics:
The Sazerac
The Sazerac is one of the oldest known American cocktails, originating in New Orleans. It combines rye whiskey, a sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, and a rinse of absinthe. Lucid Absinthe adds a distinctive herbal note that complements the spiciness of the rye whiskey.
Ingredients:
2 oz rye whiskey
1 sugar cube
3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
1 tsp Lucid Absinthe
Lemon peel
Instructions:
Rinse a chilled glass with Lucid Absinthe and discard the excess.
In a separate glass, muddle the sugar cube with the bitters.
Add the rye whiskey and ice, and stir until well chilled.
Strain the mixture into the absinthe-rinsed glass.
Express the lemon peel over the drink and garnish.
Corpse Reviver #2
The Corpse Reviver #2 is a classic cocktail from the early 20th century, known for its balanced and refreshing taste. It combines gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and a dash of absinthe.
Ingredients:
3/4 oz gin
3/4 oz Cointreau
3/4 oz Lillet Blanc
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1 dash Lucid Absinthe
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist.
Modern Absinthe Cocktails
Innovative bartenders have also created modern cocktails that incorporate Lucid Absinthe in exciting ways. These contemporary recipes highlight absinthe’s versatility and ability to complement a wide range of flavors.
Absinthe Mojito
A twist on the classic mojito, this cocktail substitutes absinthe for rum, creating a refreshing and herbaceous drink.
Ingredients:
1 oz Lucid Absinthe
1 oz fresh lime juice
1 oz simple syrup
10 fresh mint leaves
Club soda
Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
Muddle the mint leaves with the lime juice and simple syrup in a glass.
Add Lucid Absinthe and ice, and stir to combine.
Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.
Conclusion
Lucid Absinthe Supérieure stands out as a high-quality absinthe that honors the traditions of the past while making its mark in the modern world. With an ABV of 62% (124 proof), it embodies the potent and complex character that has made absinthe a legendary spirit. Whether enjoyed through the traditional louche ritual or in a variety of classic and modern cocktails, Lucid Absinthe offers a unique and unforgettable drinking experience.
Understanding the proof of Lucid Absinthe is just one aspect of appreciating this remarkable spirit. Its rich history, intricate production process, and cultural significance all contribute to its allure. As absinthe continues to reclaim its place in the world of fine spirits, Lucid Absinthe remains a shining example of authenticity and excellence. Cheers to the green fairy!
