Absinthe: from prohibition to cult status - a legend returns
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Absinthe, often referred to as "the green fairy", is a high-proof alcoholic drink distilled from wormwood, aniseed, fennel and other herbs. It originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century, but quickly established itself as a popular drink in France, particularly among artists and writers of the Belle Époque and the 1920s. However, with its rise in popularity came concerns about its safety and effect on society.
The road to prohibition
In the wake of growing health concerns and an increasing number of reports about its alleged psychoactive and hallucinogenic effects, absinthe was banned in many countries, including Germany, in the early 1900s. The key component in the controversy was thujone, a component of wormwood that was believed to be the cause of absinthe's notorious effects. This not only led to absinthe disappearing from the shelves, but also to the demonization of the drink by the public.
The science behind the myth
Decades of prohibition and mystification followed until scientific research finally cleared up many of the myths surrounding absinthe. Studies showed that the concentrations of thujone in absinthe were much lower than originally thought and could not produce the psychoactive effects it was said to have. These findings paved the way for the legalization of absinthe in the early 2000s in Germany and other countries.
Absinthe today: from prohibition to cult status
Since its legalization, absinthe has experienced a renaissance and now enjoys cult status among connoisseurs and the curious alike. Modern distilleries emphasize quality and tradition, with some even using historical recipes to produce absinthe that is as close to the original as possible. Bars and restaurants have also contributed to the revival of absinthe by offering specialized absinthe rituals and cocktails that celebrate its unique history and mystique.
