‘The Untold History of Absinthe’ Webinar
For nearly a century, absinthe was an illegal substance in America and most of the world, blamed for everything from hallucinations and delirium to even violent rampages. Uncover how a French psychiatrist, ill-timed global temperance movement, and good ol’ fashioned fake news caused this widely popular spirit to be banned until the 21st century.
Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the incredible story surrounding absinthe, and how this misunderstood spirit wound up being illegal in most parts of the world until the 21st century.
Led by Don Spiro, co-founder of the Green Fairy Society and one of the creators of New York’s vintage scene, our virtual experience will include:
- The history of absinthe, from its creation by a French doctor living in Switzerland, to why it was banned in so many countries under false pretenses
- A discussion around why absinthe is a spirit and how it fits into the world of other spirits
- A live demonstration of how absinthe is made and traditionally served (hint: no burning sugar cubes!) — follow along by gathering a bottle of absinthe (or high proof whiskey or rum), ice, and water
- Separating the facts from fiction surrounding this seemingly elusive spirit
Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Don — any and all questions about absinthe are welcomed and encouraged!
Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!
See you there, virtually! $10.
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
About Don
If you’ve been to a Jazz Age party or a swinging vintage get-together in New York over the past decade, you can thank Don Spiro for helping to start the movement.
Don moved to New York in 2005 after working in Hollywood for over 15 years — when he noticed the hot live jazz scene from the west coast was missing in the Big Apple, he began organizing his own vintage parties, quickly becoming the city’s premier event organizer for everything Jazz Age.
More recently, Don co-founded the Green Fairy Society, an organization dedicated to absinthe’s history, production, and use — swing by one of his monthly absinthe events to learn about this rare spirit from the industry’s movers and shakers.
Testimonials
“Nice and informal but still very informative! Don is great! He’s turned me into an Absinthe aficionado!” -James
“Great information. Excellent host.” -Julie
“I liked the organization of topics from the drip method to the brands to the history.” -Brent
“Very informative. Good visuals.” -Arlene