Even before absinthe was banned in
Europe and the United States, the herbal liqueur had a long history
with artists and writers. During the century-long absinthe-ban, the
drink reached near-mythical proportions. Much of the buzz was due to its outlaw
status but some of the drink's allure must be credited to the ritual
surrounding its preparation. Now, once again legal in the U.S.,
absinthe is drawing curious crowds. Lance Winters, Distiller
at Alameda, California-based St. George Spirits, spoke with Outside's
Go about some of the links between artists and absinthe as well
as the proper way to prepare a glass.
