Does Absinthe Belong In Frozen Cocktails?

Absinthe, sometimes known as the green fairy, has a reputation for mischief. Famously high in alcohol content, the vibrant spirit is perhaps best known for its presence in cocktails like the Sazerac or the corpse reviver. One thing that doesn't often come to mind when one thinks of absinthe, however, is frozen cocktails. While the mind may jump to margs and piña coladas when the concept is brought up, absinthe is the secret key to crafting dynamic frozen cocktails.

Why does this combination prove effective? Absinthe's dominant flavor is anise, a spice along the lines of licorice and tarragon. It has notes of fennel too, as well as other herbaceous, botanical, and bitter nuances. As opposed to the traditional cloying sweetness of frozen cocktails, one made with absinthe can offer a refreshing and multidimensional reprieve. And while its prominent black licorice taste can seem like a daunting flavor to pair, the options are more plentiful than you'd expect.

Before you decide to chase the green fairy into the land of frozen cocktails, you may have some questions about the spirit itself; read up on important facts about absinthe, like its composition and history, to familiarize yourself. Once you feel comfortable with the verdant liquor, you can let the mixology mischief begin. Absinthe has many surprising flavor pairings that will work well for the purposes of a frozen cocktail. Lemonade and absinthe are a fantastic and utterly refreshing duo that could make for a boozy, tasty frozen cocktail. Mint is also a good companion for absinthe. Try adding a splash of the liquor to this mint and lemonade frozen cocktail for the end-all-be-all in refreshment.

Tapping absinthe's classic cocktails can also be an avenue toward frozen beverage success. Try tinkering with the ingredients of a Sazerac, which typically consists of absinthe, sugar, water, bitters, whiskey, and lemon, to create a less spirit-forward frozen version. Utilizing lemonade instead of a simple lemon peel garnish is a good way to make this a more enjoyable frozen cocktail while ensuring the frozen texture is on point. Or you can always introduce absinthe into a variety of other classic cocktails. This frozen lemonade margarita, for example, is primed for a nip of absinthe's refreshing herbaceous personality.