Marteau Absynthe. This wonderful artisanal spirit is a new standard on the local Seattle bar scene. All natural, completely locally sourced and distilled, this takes craft cocktail components to an entirely new level.
More traditionally, Marteau can be used as a gorgeous, opalescent aperitif. Just add about 5 parts water to 1 part absynthe, a little sugar to taste, and sip. This is a highly nuanced, over-the-top aromatic experience. The obvious fennel frond and licorice notes are rounded out by a freshness full of citrus peel and seaweed.
There’s a savory component to the flavor profile as well, a salty, bracing minerality that lingers long after the more primary flavors dissipate.