Gastropod cover image

Gastropod

Absinthe: The World's Most Dangerous Drink?

Oct 15, 2024
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!
45:14

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • 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.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode