In this article, we will explore the question: Is the Absinthe in Prague real? If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful city of Prague, known for its rich history and vibrant nightlife, you may have heard about the famous Czech drink called Absinthe. But what exactly is Absinthe and is the one you find in Prague authentic?
What is Absinthe?
Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit with a distinct anise flavor. It gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in European countries like France and Czech Republic. The drink is traditionally made from wormwood, anise, and fennel, which gives it a unique herbal taste.
Fun fact: Absinthe was often referred to as “The Green Fairy” due to its vibrant green color.
The Myth and Banned History
Absinthe has long been associated with myths and legends. One common belief was that it had hallucinogenic properties due to the presence of thujone, a compound found in wormwood. This led to its ban in many countries during the early 20th century.
However, modern research has proven that thujone levels in traditional absinthe are not significant enough to cause hallucinations.
The Return of Absinthe
Luckily for absinthe enthusiasts, the ban on absinthe was lifted in many countries in the late 20th century. This allowed for a resurgence of this iconic drink.
If you’re visiting Prague, you’ll find numerous bars and distilleries offering their own versions of absinthe. But how do you know if what you’re getting is authentic?
Authentic Absinthe in Prague
When it comes to finding real absinthe in Prague, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Look for the right ingredients: Authentic absinthe should contain wormwood, anise, and fennel. These three ingredients are essential for the unique flavor and aroma of absinthe.
- Check the alcohol content: Absinthe is known for its high alcohol content, typically ranging from 45% to 74%.
If a bottle of absinthe has an unusually low alcohol percentage, it may not be the real deal.
- Watch out for imitations: Some establishments may serve absinthe substitutes or artificially colored drinks. Make sure to do your research and read reviews before choosing a place to try authentic absinthe in Prague.
The Absinthe Ritual
Absinthe is often served with a ritual that involves diluting the drink with water and sugar. This ritual not only enhances the flavors but also adds to the overall experience of enjoying absinthe.
The traditional absinthe ritual includes:
- Pouring a shot of absinthe into a glass.
- Placing an absinthe spoon on top of the glass, with a sugar cube placed on it.
- Slowly dripping ice-cold water over the sugar cube, allowing it to dissolve into the drink.
- The louche effect occurs as the water mixes with absinthe, turning it cloudy and releasing aromatic compounds.
- Mixing the drink with a spoon and enjoying!
In Conclusion
So, is the absinthe in Prague real? The answer is yes, you can find authentic absinthe in Prague as long as you know what to look for. Make sure to visit reputable establishments and inquire about the ingredients and preparation methods to ensure an authentic absinthe experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned absinthe drinker or curious to try it for the first time, exploring the world of absinthe in Prague is an adventure worth undertaking during your visit to this enchanting city.