Produced in the Czech Republic, this expression sits at the extreme end of the absinthe category, defined primarily by its very high alcohol strength and flavoured profile. Unlike traditional French or Swiss absinthes, which emphasise balance between anise, fennel, and wormwood, this style reflects a more modern and unconventional approach. The base spirit is a neutral alcohol distilled to a very high proof, providing a clean but intense foundation. At 89.9 percent alcohol by volume, the spirit is significantly stronger than standard absinthe, requiring careful handling and dilution before consumption.
Traditional absinthe botanicals such as wormwood are present, though the profile is heavily modified through the addition of cassis (blackcurrant) flavouring. This is introduced after distillation, allowing the fruit character and colour to remain vivid and stable. The result is a hybrid style that combines elements of absinthe with a fruit liqueur profile. The distinctive blue colour is created through added colouring rather than natural chlorophyll extraction. This further differentiates the spirit from classic absinthe, where colour is typically derived from secondary herbal maceration.
Due to its strength, the spirit is not intended for neat consumption. Dilution with water is essential, both to reduce alcohol intensity and to trigger the louche effect, where essential oils become visible and the liquid turns cloudy. However, the presence of added flavouring and colouring can alter the traditional louche behaviour. The overall style prioritises intensity, novelty, and flavour impact over historical accuracy or technical purity. It is positioned more as a high-strength speciality spirit than a traditional absinthe.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Intense and sharp, with strong alcohol presence. Blackcurrant dominates, with a faint herbal note beneath.
Palate:
Very powerful, with immediate alcohol heat. Sweet blackcurrant flavour combines with light herbal bitterness, though the ????it intensity remains dominant.
Finish:
Long and hot, with lingering alcohol warmth and dark fruit sweetness. A slight herbal bitterness persists at the end.
