est. 2007
| Kubler 53 Absinthe Review:
-53% abv, 1 litre -Country of Origin: Switzerland -The second US-Approved absinthe
****Many thanks to fellow absintheur "Drum Bum" for providing generous samples of each for side-by-side comparison!**** ---------- EU Version Notes: I'm not going to speak at length, but I would at least like to note some differences briefly. Please note that this brief synopsis is all that will be said about the European version, there will NOT BE A FULL REVIEW, either now or in the future. Most noticeably is the anise is much more subdued than the US version, with fennel strongest in the scent, even if the aroma is a little weak overall. It louches quickly at just over 1 part water, but expands in pleasantly teasing waves that put on a good show nonetheless. While the US version obviously has the advantage in cleanliness, the EU version retains a slight edge in complexity and richness of mouth feel. The wormwood also comes out more with a very dry, abrupt finish. Overall, it is quite good, but again the lack of a lingering finish in a la bleu is disappointing and it was not as refreshing as the US version. OVERALL: 7.0 ----------
Well now, I hope you all appreciated that mini-review. But is it a double feature, or 1.5 reviews? Either way, what better way to introduce the new than by reminiscing about the old? What's that? The new version? I’m glad you asked, let's get to it! Right away one should note the sharp, clean scent. I wouldn't feel bad leaving a glass in my bathroom to freshen things up; very nice. Anise is at the forefront, no doubt about it, followed by mint, but surprisingly I could not detect the wormwood. The louche was about as quick as the EU version, with equally pleasing swirls to build a full, decently creamy white. The fennel peeks out a little more post-louche. Ah yes, it is indeed quite good, I can tell already. Exceptionally smooth, even at a 2:1 dilution, although closer to 3:1 is optimal in my view. The anise is still the most prominent, but its not as you would expect in an "anise bomb". The anise is obviously of the highest quality, simply delightful. The fennel nudges the anise to keep it in check, complimenting nicely. I could also taste some mint in the body, but again, wormwood presence is very light. This version finishes just a little dry as well, however each sip delivers such a crisp, zesty satisfaction that it makes me inclined to go easy on any shortcomings. Now, I do believe it's time to help myself to another glass...what's this? It appears I've completely exhausted my supply... But I have to mention what a deal this is. I just can't keep quiet another moment. An entire litre of a great la bleu for about $50, soon to be available at the corner store thanks to its US approval. $50 is a hell of a deal for a good la bleu in any case, but to eliminate shipping costs and the agonizing wait is priceless. This isn't simply the best absinthe in America, but this is, at the time of this writing at least, THE best deal for a bottle of absinthe, period. That said, what the HELL are you waiting for? You saw the score, now do yourself a favour and take this advice to heart, my friends... And to put all potential arguments to rest I officially endorse the US version as superior. Until next time!
Presentation: 7.5 Louche: 7.0 Taste: 8.0 Value: 10.0
Overall: 8.0
Posted 12/08/2007 |
||
(Photo
provided by