est. 2007

Montmartre 65 Absinthe Review (2nd Version):

Photo from www.absinthe-montmartre.com

-65% abv (130 proof), .5 litre

-Country of Origin: Austria

-There's nothing else like it

Unconventional.  Unique.  Not true absinthe.  Those are just a few of the ways various absintheurs will describe Montmartre.  Some believe that it strays too far off the beaten path of so many brands before it, while others shower it with a thunderstorm of praise at its genuine uniqueness.  Which side am I on?  Let’s find out. 

It was high time I put my new absinthe brouille (compliments of Absinthe On the Net-thanks, guys!) to good use, so I poured myself a glass.

Montmartre has a ripe, emerald green colour that would make Sonic *snicker* green with envy, ho ho. The aroma is distinct enough that even a complete amateur could single it out at a blind tasting.  A combination of anise, coriander, and plenty of cinnamon all wrapped up in a sweet citrus glaze.

The louche is a little dusty as it kicks off with a quick start, but eventually adopts a more steady pace.  Not quite so condensed, but still a little thicker than the initial appearance lets on.

The strong spicy notes compliment the heat gracefully, so it is very good prepared at dilution closer to 2:1 than 3:1.  Boy, does this one send your taste buds for a loop!  The subtleties unwrap and present themselves one by one as you roll it in your mouth, with everything revealing itself once you swallow.  At the forefront of the sip it begins very simply, primarily sweet cinnamon, with some strong citrus notes present.  The finish brings out the bitterness that was hiding away until now as it gradually becomes more bitter through to the end of the sip, but pleasantly so; the level of sweetness is just about perfect.  The balancing of coriander and hyssop is also just divine.  An incredibly structured absinthe in that certain flavours are notable at very distinct points throughout the sip.  Wonderful. 

When sugar is added, the drink is smoothed into a more harmonious blend, and there is less of a contrast between the sip and the finish.  The spiciness is also roughly cut in half, making for a very different experience.  While still quite good, I would strongly urge drinkers to refrain from adding sugar to experience it at its best.

How fitting that Montmartre is such a brilliant emerald, because this one is truly a gem.

Other Notes: I enjoyed this absinthe best at a 2.5:1 ratio without the addition of sugar.  Easily one of my top picks for its price range.  Also, Cathy, thank you so much for the donation!  I'll get you to enjoy it someday!  And to those that didn’t understand the Sonic the Hedgehog reference, shame on you…

Presentation: 8.0

Louche: 7.25

Taste: 9.0

Value: 8.75

Overall:9.0

Published 6/25/08