Derived from various herbs and flowers, absinthe is often called “the green fairy” due to its distinct color profile. More than its color, this spirit is renowned for its intense and layered taste profile.
This flavorful spirit is believed to have been invented in ancient Egypt, while the modern absinthe is linked to the French Revolution. Irrespective of its origin, this spirit has made its niche, particularly after its revival in the last decade.
Though absinthe can be enjoyed as a cocktail paired with other spirits, many veteran enthusiasts prefer reliving the green fairy through an absinthe fountain. However, many upcoming absinthe enthusiasts are unaware of how to utilize an absinthe fountain.
Therefore, this comprehensive guide will explore the delicate art of pouring absinthe through an absinthe fountain and how it can enhance flavor.
Need For Absinthe Fountains
Before we delve into the details of how absinthe fountains help enhance the flavor of absinthe, it is vital to understand the importance of absinthe fountains.
The correct way of consuming absinthe is through proper dilution. Traditionally, one shot or 30 ml of absinthe is poured into a standard glass. Then, a specially designed spoon with a single sugar cube is placed over the glass. A chilled water stream is then dripped over this sugar cube, diluting the spirit.
This method of consumption is often hampered in bars, as the dilution time is significantly decreased to fulfill rush orders, and the taste profile of absinthe does not reach the required level of clarity.
Therefore, in a more formal setting, absinthe enthusiasts prefer an absinthe fountain so that they can control the dilution to their unique taste.
Personalized Dilution
As mentioned, one crucial reason absinthe fountains stand out as a must-have accessory for any absinthe lover is its unrivaled ability to provide precise dilution.
Since each individual enjoys a specific taste and dilution of their favorite spirit, this personalized dilution can be easily achieved with absinthe fountains. Absinthe fountain is a large bowl connected with three or four long taps; this bowl is filled with ice-cold water and used to dilute the spirit to the user’s custom taste.
Unlike traditional dilution methods, absinthe fountains allow precise dilution, thus unveiling a full spectrum of flavors embedded in high-quality absinthe.
Controlled Temperature
Absinthe spirit has a strong quantity of alcohol content; this strong profile conceals the intricate and layered flavor profile. The gradual dilution of chilled water acts as a resurgence that releases these intricate flavor notes and suppresses the volatile compounds in the spirit.
This release offers a more elevated and suitable drinking experience by minimizing the bitter flavor notes of the spirit.
Enhanced Flavor and Aroma
Absinthe, celebrated for its intricate blend of botanicals such as anise, fennel, and wormwood, boasts a distinctive taste and aroma. The incorporation of an absinthe fountain proves instrumental in intensifying these elements through a controlled and gradual dilution process.
Through the drop-by-drop dilution process of the absinthe fountain, users can ensure the preservation of the delicate balance of flavors. This process also helps unlock absinthe’s layered taste profile, which is often concealed due to its high alcohol content.
The gradual dilution not only helps elevate the taste profile but also releases the essential oils present in the spirit, thus heightening the aromatic sensations.
Essential Oils Solubility
As mentioned, there are various botanicals infused in absinthe that add distinct essential oils to the spirit. These oils are not water-soluble but alcohol-soluble in nature.
By gradually diluting the spirit, these essential oils are released from the spirit into the liquid, creating the louche effect. Furthermore, this effect intensifies the overall complex aroma of absinthe.
Visual Spectacle
The functionality of absinthe fountains is not limited to their taste profile; it also helps them achieve the famous “louche effect.”
When ice-cold water is added to absinthe through the fountain, the impurities released from sugar and water float to the top. Subsequently changing the color and clouding the spirit, this effect is called the louche effect.
Moreover, a quality louche cannot be achieved by merely adding water to a glass of absinthe; instead, a steady drizzle is required to witness the exquisite transformation of color and to accomplish the all-important release of essential herbal oils.
Although chilled water can be slowly poured through a jug or carafe, absinthe fountains remain the preferred accessories that help to unlock the beauty and true taste of the mysterious absinthe.
Due to this, the absinthe fountain remains an ideal choice for many absinthe enthusiasts who prefer to experience this effect closely.
Rounded Taste
Though some people like to consume absinthe on their own, the sole flavor of absinthe is quite bitter due to its high alcohol content. This is where the louche effect comes into play by emulsifying flavors by gradually adding water.
The homogenous mixture of absinthe, water, and the released essential oils produces a creamy texture while smoothing out any harsh and bitter notes of absinthe. Thus providing a more rounded and smoother absinthe drinking experience.
Statement Piece
Apart from their functionality to enhance the complex flavors and aromas of the spirit through precise dilution, absinthe fountains are also preferred for the overall aesthetic allure they add to the absinthe-drinking ritual.
These absinthe fountains often serve as statement pieces and conversational starters, often sparking an intriguing debate among absinthe enthusiasts. The allure of absinthe is not limited to the absinthe community; the adaptability of absinthe fountains is also considered by the patrons of different beverages.
Whether prominently displayed on a home bar or positioned as the centerpiece of a social event, these fountains serve as a visual testament to one’s patronage of the green fairy.
Conclusion
The mysterious nature of absinthe has attracted many individuals towards it. Thus, all accessories linked to absinthe have seen a rapid increase in sales.
Consequently, absinthe fountains have also seen increased sales, sparking the debate about their functionality and importance. Furthermore, these accessories have been used since the Industrial Revolution and still offer a more nuanced way of enjoying the mysterious green fairy while holding on to its nostalgic heritage.
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