Distillerie Artisanale Artemisia 'La Clandestine' Absinthe Supérieure Blanche, Switzerland

Distillerie Artisanale Artemisia 'La Clandestine' Absinthe Supérieure Blanche, Switzerland is a clear, aromatic blanche built around anise, fennel, and the measured bitterness of locally grown grand wormwood. Made from a recipe dating to 1935, it carries the character of Val-de-Travers absinthe with a supple, balanced profile and enough aromatic detail to enjoy slowly diluted or in classic cocktails.

Product Details:

• Spirit Type: Absinthe supérieure blanche, a clear blanche absinthe
• Botanicals: More than 10 plants, including locally cultivated grand wormwood
• Recipe: Based on a recipe dating to 1935
• Distillation: Artisanal direct-fire distillation; the distillery records individual batches alongside herb lots and distillation parameters
• ABV: 53%
• Proof: 106
• Producer: Artemisia Distillerie SA
• Distiller: Claude-Alain Bugnon

Sensory Description:

Fresh anise leads the aroma, joined by fennel and fine herbal, floral notes. The palate is clear and balanced, with aniseed and licorice carried by a restrained, leafy wormwood bitterness. Dilution softens the spirit and brings its herbal detail forward; the finish remains gently bitter and persistent.

Awards & Accolades:

• Absinthe d’or: Distiswiss, 2005
• Gold Medal: Forum romand des Eaux-de-Vies, 2006

Producer’s Background:

Founded in Couvet by Claude-Alain Bugnon, Artemisia is part of the modern revival of Val-de-Travers absinthe. Bugnon began distilling clandestinely around 2000 using a recipe associated with local distiller Charlotte Vaucher; when absinthe was legalized again in Switzerland in 2005, he became the first distiller in Couvet to complete the federal process for legal production. The distillery continues to work with wormwood from the valley, and Bugnon’s son Sébastien is training to carry on as master distiller.

Serving Suggestions:

Slowly pour 3 to 4 parts iced water over 1 part absinthe in an absinthe glass, preferably using a fountain and perforated spoon. As the spirit turns cloudy, its aromas open and its strength softens. Blanche absinthe is traditionally enjoyed without sugar. Pair it with plain savory biscuits, or use it in an Absinthe Frappé or Death in the Afternoon.