Libertine Amer Absinthe (700ml)

One of three absinthes produced at the family-owned Devoille distillery under the 'Libertine' label. The emphasis here is on locally cultivated grand wormwood. Green anise, star anise, liquorice, fennel, coriander, Melissa, hyssop and veronica also make it in the mix. Each ingredient is macerated and distilled individually before blending. This has been described as a polarising, earthy, musky style with distinct wormwood bitterness.

Tasting note: Deep neon-emerald green. Paprika and tomato salsa on the nose. Odd. Second pass finds hints of cardamom, dill and fennel but the paprika top note remains. Hot and tongue nipping with muted liquorice strap overwhelmed by prickly heat. Evaporates in a non-descript, bitter finish that has lost the plot when it comes to balance, definition and direction. 68% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews… …this is either love it or hate it. It does not pretend to be a standard verte, I don't think it's labelled "amer" just for its thujone content. When I first tried it, I was pretty disappointed. After some months and many absinthes experienced, this is one of the few absinthes I always want to have home, as its personality is unique. I like it more than the other Amer, Lemercier. I know this absinthe doesn't get much love anywhere, but I think it just boils down to personal preferences: if you like it bitter and intense, if you don't like anise too much, if you want something strong and different, this is definitely worth a try. - www.wormwoodsociety.org