Description
Grande Absente is a strong absinthe verte from Distilleries et Domaines de Provence in the south of France. It follows an authentic pre-ban recipe that includes wormwood. The distillery uses artisanal methods and local botanicals. It is bottled at a powerful 69% ABV, or 138 proof.
The color is a vivid green. On the nose you find anise and star anise, with warm spice and a cool hint of menthol. The palate feels mouth-filling and rich. Anise and wormwood lead, with spice and a pleasant bitter edge. The finish is very long, and the anise and wormwood linger.
Critics agree. The Beverage Testing Institute gave it a Gold Medal and 94 points in 2023. It also took Gold from the same panel in 2022.
For the full ritual, rest a sugar cube on a slotted spoon over your glass. Drip cold water over it slowly and watch the absinthe louche, or turn cloudy. It also works in like a Sazerac or an Absinthe Frappé. Try it with goat cheese, smoked salmon or dark chocolate.
This is a bottle for curious drinkers who love big herbal flavor and a bit of history. Go slowly, and always add water at this strength.
