Evan Rael, a journalist and author of "The Absinthe Forger," and Nina Stutter, a historian and author of "The Hour of Absinthe," dive into the enchanting world of absinthe. They discuss its transformation from the 'green muse' of 19th-century artists to a vilified drink blamed for social decline. The duo unpacks the myths surrounding its notorious effects, its cultural significance in colonial France, and the clever ways clandestine distillers kept the spirit alive during prohibition. Collectors and modern-day enthusiasts also add to absinthe's rich narrative!
Absinthe was revered as the 'green muse' by artists in 19th century France, symbolizing creativity and inspiration.
Despite its once-celebrated status, absinthe was scapegoated for societal issues, leading to its prohibition and a tarnished reputation.
Deep dives
The Mystique of Absinthe
Absinthe is a distilled spirit with a complex blend of flavors, primarily characterized by three key herbs: aniseed, fennel, and wormwood. While it's often mistaken for a sweet liqueur due to its aromatic profile, absinthe is technically classified differently because it is not sweetened. The drink is traditionally prepared by adding water and sugar, creating a cloudy appearance known as the 'louche', which enhances its aromatic qualities. This delicate preparation process transforms absinthe into a sociable beverage, making it a delightful choice for leisurely moments.
The Unfounded Panic Around Absinthe
The dangerous reputation of absinthe arose largely from its association with the French colonial experience and the perceived risks it posed to society. During the early 20th century, myths spread that absinthe could incite madness and violence, leading to a heightened focus on its effects, despite much of the panic being unfounded. Medical discourse at the time exaggerated absinthe's risks, claiming that its essential oils could lead to severe health issues far worse than other alcoholic beverages. This narrative was compounded by social anxieties of the time, leading to absinthe being scapegoated for broader societal problems.
Absinthe's Transformative Journey
Absinthe's popularity surged in Paris during the late 19th century, becoming synonymous with the artistic lifestyle of the era. The drink was believed to inspire creativity among renowned artists and writers, who actively included absinthe in their works and social rituals. Cafés and bars served absinthe as the preferred aperitif, ushering in a cultural moment symbolized by the 'Green Hour', when individuals from all walks of life would come together in celebration. This romanticized vision of absinthe as the muse of the Belle Époque defines its legacy as a quintessential spirit of creativity and sociability.
The Rise and Fall of Absinthe Bans
Absinthe faced numerous bans across Europe, culminating in a prohibition that reflected the societal moral panic surrounding alcohol consumption. The narrative surrounding absinthe changed drastically after a high-profile murder linked to its consumption, which further fueled calls for its prohibition. Many distillers adapted by creating clear or disguised versions of absinthe that could circumvent legal restrictions. Eventually, absinthe regained its popularity with modern reinterpretations that appeal to the spirit's history and mystique, marking a resurgence alongside renewed interest in artisanal and historical beverages.
To painters and poets in late-1800s France, absinthe was "the green muse" or the "green fairy," an almost magical potion that promised vivid dreams, wild ideas, and artistic inspiration with every sip. By the 1910s, this once incredibly popular herbal liquor was banned—not only in France, but in countries around the world. Condemned as the cause of both individual ruin and social decline, absinthe consumption was blamed for seizures, memory gaps, hallucinations, and even murderous rage. So what's the deal: is absinthe just a drink, or is it actually deadly? This episode, we've got the story behind the myths, from witchy distillers to women on bicycles, and military rations to pre-ban bottles. Join us for the trip!