But Absinthe's true power lies not in presentation, but the dangerous mix of distilled herbs from which the drink derrives its distinctive flavor.

Absinthe's ingredients include a mixture of chamomile, hyssop and other herbs, but its potency and supposed hallucinogenic capabilities are owed to the addition of wormwood, a shrub-like perennial containing thujone. (Thujone has a similar chemical structure to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana). The drink has been credited with everything from curing stomach ailments to inspiring great works of fiction. The most devout of Absinthe's fans credit the drink with bringing them visions of a gorgeous green fairy, La Fee Verte, (think Tinkerbell meets Barbie).

A sexy representation on recent films From Hell with Johnny Depp and the movie musical Moulin Rouge has sparked a recent absinthe revival. Many countries, including the U.S. have revoked their absinthe ban, however only absinthe with thujone measuring at or below a permitted level may be sold in the United States.