ok...let me start by saying that i am a true absinthian enthusiast with about 20 different brands of absinthe purchased and sampled...incuding a few pre-ban samples. in making this, i would suggest a recipe of: 2 cups- 80 proof vodka, 1.5 cups everclear, 1 cup corn syrup or honey.....i would also suggest allowing it to settle for at least 24 hours before drinking (after blending, of course). this is a wonderful absinthe. and yes...IT IS ABSINTHE...TRUE ABSINTHE!!! the louche is wonderful and a neat shot is smooth...not as smooth as the white....but it is pretty good. i think the only difference i would make is to add 2 bottles of essence per 750ml...but that is my personal opinion....the taste is almost identicle to the french La Muse...very floral....very herbal....smells wonderful. i will say that i was a sceptic at first as i have brewed the Green Devil absinthe numerous times and was absolutely appaled at the outcome....but this is simple, accurate, and authentic!! i give it 4 stars only because i enjoy the 55 strong a little more and the white is absolutely the best of the four by leaps and bounds. but, i would never discount this classic essence. it is well orth the money! i can make 4- 750ml bottles for about the same amount of money as a bottle of 1 litre Kubler. Bravo!!!