This week it’s a departure from our usual recommendations of vodka, whisky, tequila and the rest. At Elysium Magazine we like to spoil you with treats of the world, and every discerning gent’s drinks cabinet needs a wildcard or two. So this week’s recommendation to your drinks cabinet is the mysterious La Maison Fontaine Absinthe.
Absinthe has traditionally held a reputation of hazy recollections, thanks to its rather high alcohol by volume (ABV) content – anything between 45-74%. Originating from Switzerland in the late 18th century, it grew in popularity as an alcoholic spirit in late 19th and early 20th century France. Here Parisian creatives such as artists and writers instilled a distinct bohemian culture.
However that’s the past and this is now. La Maison Fontaine is an uber premium absinthe hailing from Pontarlier in France. The spirit embodies 200 years of history, but has a very contemporary feel to it. You won’t find the green fairy (as the drink was called back in the day) anywhere near this stuff. Instead it’s a modern bottle with minimalist design. The drink itself is clear, as opposed to the usual green colour of absinthe, yet still packs a heavy 56% ABV punch.
One of the easiest ways to enjoy La Maison Fontaine is neat where you’ll experience the aniseed taste along with notes of mint. Purists, and perhaps many discerning gents, may like to try the French way – diluting the spirit with iced water poured slowly over a sugar cube held over the glass with a special slotted spoon. As the water mixes with the spirit it clouds the drink and releases herbal aromas bringing out the full character of the absinthe. It’s an idea to float if you’re with an adventurous guest. For the more contemporary guest there are a number of cocktails to choose from, all fuelled by the recent renaissance absinthe has experienced during the last 10 years or so.
La Maison Fontaine Absinthe is priced RRP £59.95 and available from The Drinks Shop
For more information about La Maison Fontaine Absinthe and cocktail recipes to try, visit www.fontaineabsinthe.com