Absinthe Frappé is a refreshing yet potent cocktail, driven by the famously distinctive character of absinthe. Its pale yellow-green color is already eye-catching, but the real magic lies in the bold anise flavor that makes this drink unforgettable. Absinthe Frappé is a true delight for anyone who enjoys intense, expressive cocktails and wants something genuinely unique—especially on warm days.
Story
The story of the Absinthe Frappé begins in New Orleans and goes back to the 1870s. Cayetano Ferrer, the renowned American bartender, introduced absinthe in a refreshing, iced form at the Old Absinthe House, and his creation soon became closely associated with the drink. However, the United States banned absinthe in 1912 because many people believed that thujone—a compound found in the spirit—could cause hallucinations and psychological problems. As a result, the drink disappeared for nearly a century. In 2007, studies confirmed that modern absinthe contains thujone levels far below anything considered harmful, allowing this classic cocktail to return.
Ingredients
1 oz (30 ml) absinthe
½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup (natural)
⅙–⅓ oz (5–10 ml) Anisette liqueur (optional, for a stronger anise note)
2 oz (60 ml) soda water
How to Make an Absinthe Frappé Cocktail
Pour the absinthe, simple syrup, and—if you want a bolder anise flavor—Anisette liqueur into a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until the mixture is well-chilled and lightly frothy. Strain the drink into a glass packed with crushed ice. After that, top it with soda water and give it a gentle stir.
Serving and Garnish
Absinthe Frappé is traditionally served in a snifter or an old fashioned glass. Place a fresh mint leaf on top of the drink for garnish. The icy, frappé-like texture enhances its cooling effect both visually and in taste.
Calorie Content
A single serving of Absinthe Frappé contains approximately 170–190 calories, coming mainly from the sugar content of the absinthe and simple syrup.