Obsello Absinthe Verte Review:

-50% abv, .75 litre

-Country of Origin: Spain

-Gold Medal from BTI, SFWSC 2009

Say hello to the first truly premium brand from Spain. After years of melissa-bomb oil extract brands, to taste Obsello Absinthe Verte for the first time makes the tears of joy run freely. Well done, Esmeralda Liquors.

Pouring reveals a light green colour with a hint of yellow, slightly hazy. The louche begins very quickly, then abruptly shifts to a more slow, steady build concluding at about 2.5 parts water, with a creamier shade of green.

Very deep, sweet aroma, (sweetness seems most evident in recently uncorked bottles) with only a faint bit of funk. For the most part fruity, with anise and a hint of tartness.

A subtle vanilla element compliments the anise and melissa. At stronger ratios, there’s a good deal of spiciness, some mint. But wowza, the grape base adds lends unmistakable vibrancy! My only real complaint is a faint waxy element that is somewhat distracting if you dilute past 3:1. The finish could’ve been a little longer, but it was still pleasantly sweet and satisfying, the lower proof lending a fresh notion. Notably sweeter than mid-palate, very mellowed mouth feel. I did notice from time-to-time a nutty element just before the numbing takes effect, though I could be mistaken. By and large it is exceptionally satisfying, and only improves with a little breathing time.

With sugar added, it has an uber-smooth mouth feel, and accentuates the anise to more equally match the fruity notions. Though, as I feel about most brands with sugar added, it muddles the herbs just enough that some of the finer nuances are lost, so I do not prefer, nor suggest it be served this way.

Absolutely hands-down the best absinthe from Spain right now, and at a great price to boot. I can’t quite call it flawless, but B. Alex has created something that will not be mistaken for any other absinthe. A hell of an absinthe debut!


Other Notes: I found it optimal at just under 3:1, no sugar, at room temperature. Stylish black wax seal is a nice touch, and easy to remove.  Additional louche photos provided below.

Presentation: 7.9
Louche: 7.6
Taste: 8.1
Value: 8.8

Overall: 8.2/10
 

Additional Photos:

Published 4/12/2009