Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic28.9% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 4 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Coffee Desserts, Desserts, Aperitif
Ingredients & Tools
ModifierMixerBitters
- 2.0 ozAbsinthe SubstituteModifier
- 2.0 ozWaterMixer
- 2.0 ozOld Mr. Boston AnisetteModifier
- 1 dashOrange BittersBitters
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
- Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
Best For
Food Pairings
Coffee DessertsDesserts
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable โ each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.BittersOrange bitters add citrus brightness and aromatic lift. Angostura is spicier and warmer โ use a dash less if you swap. Peychaud's is the lightest option; it keeps the drink balanced without adding too much weight.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Absinthe Cocktail?
- The Absinthe Cocktail is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 28.9%. A standard serving contains approximately 404 calories.
- What does a Absinthe Cocktail taste like?
- Absinthe Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Anise, Bitter, Orange, Citrus. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Absinthe Cocktail?
- Absinthe Cocktail pairs well with Coffee Desserts, Desserts. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Absinthe Cocktail?
- The Absinthe Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 28.9%. That's approximately 0.92 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 404 calories, 20.7g sugar, 26.6g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Absinthe Cocktail typically served?
- Absinthe Cocktail is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Absinthe Cocktail?
- If you enjoy Absinthe Cocktail, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Absinthe Cocktail at home?
- Yes. The Absinthe Cocktail uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Absinthe Cocktail with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.

