Jade absinthe is a revival of a historic drink linked to bohemian culture. It honours 19th-century Paris absinthes, loved by artists like Van Gogh, Hemingway, and Baudelaire. They claimed it boosted their creativity.
The story of the brand is about bringing back a classic. T.A. Breaux, a scientist and absinthe historian, researched old absinthes and their making methods. He aimed to recreate the original spirit, free from myths about its effects and the ban in the early 20th century.
Jade absinthes are made in Saumur, France, at the Combier Distillery. They use traditional copper alembics from the 19th century. This means they distil with whole herbs and botanicals. This sets them apart from many modern absinthes that use artificial colours and flavours.
Jade has several versions. Jade 1901 reflects the classic “Pernod Fils-style” absinthe. It has a mix of grand wormwood, green anise, sweet fennel, and other botanicals. This gives a complex herbal taste and a creamy texture.
The Esprit Edouard is another variety. It is like the original Edouard Pernod absinthe, once very popular. It has a refined texture and a delicate herbal complexity.
Nouvelle-Orléans absinthe nods to Breaux's Louisiana roots and New Orleans' absinthe history. It has a peppery spice and a fresh profile, reflecting New Orleans' cocktail culture.
Jade absinthes focus on quality and traditional methods. Every detail matters, from growing specific wormwood to precise maceration and distillation.
In the glass, Jade absinthe is naturally green. When water is added, it turns opalescent. This shows the essential oils from the botanicals. The classic way to prepare it involves a slotted spoon, sugar, and cold water. This enhances the absinthe's complexity.
Jade absinthes blend the appeal of absinthe tradition with quality. They satisfy purists and newcomers. They offer a taste of the bohemian spirit and connect the past and present.