Book Description
Take an intimate look into the contemporary world of absinthe. International in scope, Absinthe: Sip of Seduction is a visually rich journey into an alluring subculture. Punctuated with color reproductions of classic and current lithographs, posters, postcards, cartoons, antiques, glassware, bottles, and other tools of the absinthe drinker, this new and thorough study explains and illustrates the history, culture, and mystique of the drink known as the Green Fairy. Absinthe bars have popped up all over the globe in recent years. Festivals in Switzerland and France celebrate the many distilleries and varieties of absinthe available on the market today. Museums, films, collectors, and -reviews of existing brands all set this title apart from the historically based volumes currently on the English language market. Absinthe: Sip of Seduction explores absinthes contemporary absinthe and ritual.The focus is unique; in addition to the customary glimpses of history, the authors provide insights into the controversy and effects of the Green Fairy through the stories of famous connoisseurs such as Vincent Van Gogh, Oscar Wilde, Ernest Hemingway, and Pablo Picasso. However, consumption and enjoyment of absinthe is not just relegated to history; contemporary drinkers include Johnny Depp and Marilyn Manson. Explained are sipping instructions, variations including French, Czech, and German methods, cocktail and drink recipes, and even suggestions for culinary accompaniments. Confirmed absinthe drinkers, neophytes, the curious, and collectors will all find this book equally intriguing and seductive.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Agreen fairy, geniuses' muse, deliverer of madness and maladies, harmless elixir -- absinthe carries quite a reputation. Absinthe: Sip of Seduction, A Contemporary Guide reveals the true nature of this notorious and alluring sub-culture, from past to present. Punctuated with classic and current poster art, postcards, paintings, drawings, advertisements, and photographs, this book does not leave the eye feeling neglected. Beginning with the birth and temporary death of absinthe, our story moves towards the contemporary revival of the Green Fairy. As a must, the comprehension of the piqued interest of absinthe requires a look at the famous drinkers who have cuddled up to the rumored green muse. From Charles Baudelaire, Paul Verlaine, and Alfred Jarry to Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, and Pablo Picasso to Ernest Hemingway, Aleister Crowley, Johnny Depp, and Marilyn Manson, absinthe has had many suitors. Discussions on how absinthe may serve as a brilliant release for creativity and, in some cases, a road to abuse and destruction are held for each featured artist.