Banned & Back: How Absinthe Made Its Way from Prohibition to Celebration
For decades, absinthe was shrouded in mystery, controversy, and outright bans. Once the favored drink of artists and writers like Ernest Hemingway and Vincent van Gogh, this anise-flavored spirit was accused of everything from inducing hallucinations to inspiring madness. But today, absinthe is back in the spotlight—celebrated for its complexity, its history, and, of course, its starring role in some of the most intriguing cocktails.
Let’s take a journey through absinthe’s tumultuous past and toast to its well-deserved revival with two must-try drinks: Fairytale and Death in the Afternoon.
The Green Fairy’s Rise and Fall
Absinthe’s origins trace back to late 18th-century Switzerland, where it was initially used as a medicinal elixir before gaining popularity in France. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it had become the drink of choice for Parisian bohemians and intellectuals. Nicknamed La Fée Verte—the Green Fairy—absinthe was romanticized for its alleged creativity-enhancing effects.
However, the drink’s high-proof nature and association with rowdy behavior led to increasing scrutiny. In 1915, France banned absinthe, joining a global wave of prohibition fueled by misinformation and moral panic. The United States followed suit, and for nearly a century, absinthe remained a taboo spirit, whispered about but rarely seen.
Absinthe’s Glorious Comeback
The 21st century ushered in a reevaluation of absinthe, revealing that its infamous effects were largely exaggerated. In 2007, the U.S. lifted its ban, allowing the sale of properly distilled absinthe under regulated conditions. Today, absinthe is enjoying a renaissance, embraced by mixologists who appreciate its botanical complexity and bold character.
If you’re looking to experience absinthe in all its glory, there’s no better way than through these two exquisite cocktails.
Fairytale
This enchanting cocktail is a celebration of absinthe’s depth, paired with floral and citrus notes for a beautifully balanced drink. It’s perfect for those who want to ease into absinthe’s unique flavor profile while enjoying an elevated, elegant sip.
Why you’ll love it:
- Light and aromatic with a hint of herbal depth
- Stunning presentation, making it perfect for special occasions
- A great introduction to absinthe for those new to the spirit
Death in the Afternoon
Created by Ernest Hemingway himself, this cocktail is as legendary as the writer who invented it. The combination of absinthe and champagne results in a drink that is both refreshing and deceptively strong.
Why you’ll love it:
- A Hemingway-approved classic with an air of sophistication
- Effervescent and lively, perfect for celebratory toasts
- Simple yet striking—just two ingredients come together to create magic
Tips for Enjoying Absinthe at Home
- Start with a rinse. To introduce absinthe without overpowering a cocktail, swirl a small amount in your glass, then discard the excess before adding other ingredients.
- Use it sparingly. Absinthe is potent, both in flavor and alcohol content. A little goes a long way!
- Pair it wisely. Absinthe pairs beautifully with citrus, sparkling wine, and botanicals that complement its anise-forward profile.
Final Sip
Absinthe has come a long way from its days of prohibition and scandal. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience of great spirits—both literal and figurative. Whether you’re toasting with the floral elegance of Fairytale or the literary legacy of Death in the Afternoon, you’re sipping on a piece of history. So go ahead, embrace the Green Fairy, and let the celebration begin!
Author Meet Kelly Sparks, the creative mastermind and cocktail influencer behind @QueenBeeMixology. While mixology may not be her day job, it is her passion. As the Founder and CEO of VMG Studios, a successful and award-winning creative agency and video production studio, Kelly brings her expertise in creativity to the world of cocktails. As a self-taught and dedicated do-it-yourselfer, Kelly makes the journey to amazing cocktails accessible to everyone. And when she’s not hard at work, you can find her sipping a delicious drink with her husband.
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