Absinthe Bar in Montreal: Discover the Green Fairy at Bootlegger
Absinthe is a mythical spirit surrounded by legends, bans and rituals. Its colour may be green or clear, its profile may be intensely herbal, aniseed, floral or bitter, and its high alcohol content requires slow and responsible tasting.
At Bootlegger, we chose to make it a true specialty. Our team enjoys presenting the bottles, explaining their differences and introducing fountain service in the intimate atmosphere of our Montreal cocktail bar.
about us
What Is Absinthe?
Modern absinthe is a distilled spirit associated in particular with grande wormwood, as well as anise, fennel and other aromatic plants depending on the recipe. The very old history of wormwood, used in different traditions, must be distinguished from the spirit as we know it today, which appeared in Europe in the eighteenth century.
Over time, absinthe has been credited with medicinal, aphrodisiac or creative properties. These ideas belong to the history and myths surrounding the product; they should not be presented as health benefits.
From the Green Fairy to Twentieth-Century Bans
Absinthe became very popular in the nineteenth century, especially among artists and writers. Its reputation later darkened and the spirit was banned in several countries at the beginning of the twentieth century. Modern regulations allowed its legal return to different markets, with standards governing its composition.
This turbulent history partly explains the fascination it still holds today. It also fueled the idea that it could cause hallucinations. We do not present absinthe as a supernatural product: it is first and foremost a powerful, complex and aromatic alcohol.
How Bootlegger Became Specialized in Absinthe
The specialization in absinthe came later in Bootlegger’s development. When we affirmed our identity as a cocktail bar, we wanted to explore an ingredient capable of adding great depth to recipes while matching our speakeasy decor and New Orleans inspirations.
At that time, absinthe was still little known to much of the Quebec public and the accessible selection was limited. We therefore spent time researching different bottles, learning styles and discovering original fountains.
Immediate Curiosity Among Visitors
Montreal welcomes many travellers who sometimes discover absinthe for the first time at Bootlegger. Their attention is drawn as much to the ritual, the fountain and the transformation of the liquid as to the bottle itself.
The experience allows guests to compare aromas before and after dilution and discover a spirit often very different from the mysterious image associated with it.
The Absinthe Fountain Ritual
Traditional service consists of slowly pouring very cold water into the absinthe. As the water is added, the liquid may turn cloudy: this phenomenon, often called the “louche,” releases aromas and reduces alcoholic strength.
Depending on the bottle and tradition followed, service may include a perforated spoon and sugar; some absinthes are enjoyed without sugar. The team can explain the recommended method.
Absinthe in Cocktails
At the fountain or in small amounts in a cocktail, absinthe adds anise, herbs, freshness and a long finish. A rinse of the glass or a few dashes are often enough to support the other ingredients without dominating the drink.
faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
We do not present absinthe as a hallucinogen. It should be consumed slowly, diluted when recommended and with the same caution as other spirits.
Not necessarily. Some absinthes emphasize herbs, flowers, spices or bitterness more strongly, and dilution transforms the profile.
Yes, depending on the menu and available ingredients. Ask the team for a creation or classic using absinthe as an aromatic element.
Discover Our Absinthe Selection
View the menu, ask for fountain service and reserve a table to discover absinthe at Bootlegger in Montreal.