Drink of the Week: Herbsaint Original

After months of waiting, Herbsaint Original is finally getting closer to nationwide availability. As distribution rolls out in the coming weeks, you’ll be able to locate it online at places like drinkupny.com and klwines.com for about $35 a bottle. This re-introduction of Herbsaint’s original recipe sheds new light on a spirit that has been somewhat overshadowed since absinthe’s re-emergence on the U.S. cocktail scene, but it’s well worth adding to your home bar. It’s powerful, yet approachable, with pure anise aromas and strong flavors of black licorice and salt. Well-integrated alcohol (it comes in at 100-proof) makes this compelling spirit a great contribution to any number of cocktails, including, of course, a classic Sazerac. Or try it in the Lazone’s Martini, a potent sipper crafted by Dale DeGroff.

Lazone’s Martini
1 1/2 oz. gin
1 oz. Southern Comfort
1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
2 dashes Herbsaint
Ice cubes
Tools: shaker, strainer
Glass: cocktail
Garnish: lime wheel

Combine all ingredients and shake well. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish.

Dale DeGroff, The Essential Cocktail (2008, Clarkson Potter)