Creative inspiration … hallucinogenic … banned substance … Absinthe has had quite of history! So much so, that in fact, it has its own official day – National Absinthe Day (March 5) – created to commemorate the repeal of the 95-year ban that kept the mystical spirit from US shelves. Lucid Absinthe, created by renowned mixologist and “The Father of Modern Absinthe” Ted Breaux, was the first brand allowed back in the United States after the repeal.
While rumors of its stupor-inducing properties are wildly exaggerated, Absinthe does have a rich heritage… and as one of the few authentic Absinthes crafted according to strict techniques, Lucid has earned its place on the back bar and in cocktails – both classic and modern.
In the 1860s, 5pm was known as l’heure verte or The Green Hour
1 oz. Lucid Absinthe
1 ½ oz. melon liqueur
splash of ginger ale
2-3 lime wedges
lime spiral for garnish
In a rocks glass, muddle lime wedges. In a shaker add ice, Lucid Absinthe and melon liqueur. Shake vigorously and strain into muddled rocks glass. Top with a splash of ginger ale and garnish with lime spiral.
Mint Muse – An ode to the painting by Albert Maignan
1 oz. Lucid Absinthe
2 oz. pineapple juice
2 oz. lemon-lime soda
6-8 mint leaves
2 lime wedges
In a tall glass, muddle mint leaves and a lime wedge. Add ice, Lucid Absinthe, pineapple juice and top
with lemon-lime soda. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wedge.
Lucid Cooler – a fresh drink to help us welcome spring
2 oz. Lucid Absinthe
1 oz. St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
1 oz. simple syrup
1 oz. fresh lime
1 oz. ginger ale
fresh basil leaves
fresh grapes
Muddle basil leaves with simple syrup in a rocks glass. Add ice, Lucid Absinthe, St-Germain, fresh lime and ginger ale. Garnish with fresh grapes.