As you’ll note in the first post in my series reviewing and tasting absinthes, there are three major styles; blanche, verte, and Czech (or Bohemian). Bohemian-style absinthe is the least anise-intense style of the lot and there’s some consternation as to whether it should be considered a true absinthe and, instead, be considered a wormwood bitters. For me, this is mostly a matter of angels dancing on a bloody pin.

All of which is to say, this is a unique ingredient that I believe can be worked into cocktails in new and interesting ways. And that’s exactly what we’ll be doing this Thursday, January 22. So, join us as we mix drinks with Mata Hari Absinthe and sample others’ drinks as they work their magic in any way they choose¹ . Also, Gerry Fischer, a direct descendent of the original family owning the Austrian distillery and the master distiller of Mata Hari absinthe will be joining us to answer questions about the origins of “Bohemian-style” absinthe and just how “Czech-style” absinthe got such a bad rep. among many other things. It should be fun, informative, and, as always, enlightening as to the inner workings of our souls as we approach the witching hour on the West Coast and the 7th hour of TDN approaches. Join us, won’t you? ,

• When: This Thursday Night, 7:00pm (EST) (but join in any time)
• Where: The Mixoloseum Bar
• Bring: Drink inspirations, an appreciation for the finer things spirits have to offer, and a love of laughter and a friendly group.

1. The best drink submission from a first-time participant will be featured here on Cocktailnerd.
2. The best drink of the evening will receive a bottle of Hayman’s Old Tom Gin courtesy of Greg Boehm at Mud Puddle Books.

Guidelines:

1. Join the fun.
2. Dare Rick to mix and give tasting notes on some ridiculous drink idea.
3. Watch as it’s tweaked, discussed, and mocked.
4. Mix it up along with everyone else and share your thoughts.
5. Consume (or treat your sink to a drink) and return to Step 2.

1. hell, fire even makes an appearance some nights [↩]