Pernod Absinthe
Pernod Absinthe — Pernod Absinthe Supérieure — is a 68% ABV (136 proof), 750mL absinthe from France: the original absinthe, first produced by Henri-Louis Pernod in Pontarlier in 1805. Relaunched in 2013 on its 19th-century formula, it is built on a wine-spirit base with grande wormwood grown in Pontarlier, its green colour natural from herb maceration, with no added sugar or dyes. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor.
- ABV: 68% (136 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Style: Absinthe supérieure
- Base: Wine (grape) spirit, per the 2013 original-formula relaunch
- Botanicals: Grande and petite wormwood, anise, fennel, hyssop, melissa
- Colour: Natural green from herb maceration; no added dyes or sugar
- Heritage: First produced in Pontarlier, 1805
- Origin: France
The Original Absinthe, Back on Its 1805 Formula
Henri-Louis Pernod's Pontarlier factory made absinthe a French institution from 1805 until the 1915 ban ended production; Pernod Absinthe returned to the US in 2008 after restrictions lifted, and in 2013 Pernod Ricard relaunched it on the original 19th-century recipe after a two-year redevelopment — wine-spirit base restored, Pontarlier-grown grande wormwood, natural colour. It is made today in small batches in Thuir, in the south of France. Find it among our liqueurs, browse the full spirits shelf, or visit the Pernod vendor page.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Naturally green, turning lightly opalescent as water is added. Nose: Anise-dominant with musk and herbaceous depth. Palate: Wormwood and anise with lemon balm and floral notes. Finish: Citrus-toned and herbal.
How to Enjoy
Pour it the traditional way: ice water dripped slowly over a sugar cube resting on a slotted absinthe spoon, and watch the louche form. It is also the classic absinthe rinse for a Sazerac.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who invented absinthe? Henri-Louis Pernod began producing it commercially in Pontarlier in 1805, and Pernod Fils became the defining absinthe house of the 19th century.
Why was absinthe banned, and when did Pernod return? Absinthe was banned in 1915 in Europe and the US. Pernod Absinthe was reintroduced to the US in 2008 and relaunched on its original 19th-century formula in 2013.
How strong is Pernod Absinthe? 68% ABV (136 proof) — it is bottled to be diluted with iced water in the traditional ritual.
Drink the green hour the original way — order Pernod Absinthe online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.