Absinthe
Created | Updated Jan 28, 2002
A bizarre green alcoholic liquid, which until recently was illegal in the UK. At around 70-80% vol. it is rumoured that it contains halucinogenic chemicals, as if the alcohol levels weren't enough. Widely available in Eastern Europe it is most commonly used to ease the pressures and strains of living there. Also used by writers of the early 20th century, such as Ernest Hemingway, in the mistaken belief that it made them more attractive, more erudite and more extreme in lifestyle than regular mortals. They were wrong. As with so many other strong and bizarre alcoholic drinks, one night on the piss with this stuff and you'll never be able to touch it again. When drinking Absinthe you might be amused to see that you can easily ignite its anaseedy fumes. Don't be tempeted to treat these flames in the same way as sambuca, and place a wet hand over the glass expecting to seal it to your palm. If you are stupid enough to do this, what invariably happens is that the liquor keeps burning in the confined space and burns your skin. In some cases the liquid may even explode under pressure, showering the unwary drinker with flaming liquid. Also when drinking Absinthe it should be noted by the drinker, the exquisite sensation of having all the cells on the inside of the mouth stripped away.
