Friday 23 March 2018

Book Review: Absinthe - The Exquisite Elixir by Betina J. Wittels and T.A. Breaux

Title: Absinthe: The Exquisite Elixir
Author:
Betina J. Wittles and T.A. Breaux
Publisher:
Fulcrum Publishing
Publication Date:
9 May 2018
Pages:
161
Format:
eBook - PDF
Genre:
Non-Fiction/Food & Drink
Source:
ARC via NetGalley



Take an intimate look into the contemporary world of absinthe. International in scope, Absinthe: The Exquisite Elixir is a visually rich journey into an alluring subculture. Filled with color reproductions of classic and current lithographs, posters, cartoons, as well as photos of antiques, glassware, and other tools of the absinthe drinker, this new and comprehensive guide explains and illustrates the history, culture, and mystique of the drink known as the Green Fairy. The authors provide insights into the controversy and effects of the Green Fairy through the stories of famous connoisseurs, including Vincent van Gogh, Oscar Wilde, Ernest Hemingway, and Pablo Picasso. In addition to a rich history, this detailed new guide includes recipes, reviews of existing Absinthe brands, and absinthe’s contemporary culture and ritual. Confirmed absinthe drinkers, neophytes, the curious, and collectors will all find this book equally intriguing and seductive. (Goodreads Synopsis)


Absinthe: The Exquisite Elixir was a captivating read that encompassed a thorough history of the drink, its preparation and paraphernalia, recommended modern brands, and even recipes. Absinthe has always held appeal for me. I first tried some in the Czech Republic about 15 years ago; although, reading this book, it looks like the one I tried was a cheaper imitation, not the real thing, which makes me all the more interested in finding a traditional version to sample. The book's presentation is beautiful, with plenty of colour illustrations that complement the text, and I would recommend this for anyone interested in the history and culture of this famous beverage.

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