#2 Absinthe Fountain, 6 Spout

Description

This rare six spout fountain is a reproduction of vintage 19th century Belle Époque absinthe fountain. The lid is removable where water and ice can be added into the glass bowl. The glass bowl is mouth blown and its side etchings are cut by hand. The metal fountains is also handmade, chrome plating over brass. The fountain has six metal faucets, accommodating one to six glasses at the same time. Absinthe fountains were mostly used in high-end bars because of their expensive price tag. They were brought to the table, where the customer would prepare the absinthe himself. Absinthe fountains were (and still are) the preferred way to prepare a traditional absinthe, as one can perfectly control the rate of water. But unfortunately due to accidents, very few antique fountains have survived intact with its original glass bowl. Proper use consists of: pouring an ounce of absinthe into an absinthe glass, then placing an absinthe spoon on top of the glass and a sugar cube atop the spoon. The lid of the fountain is removed and fresh water and ice is added into the glass bowl. The spigot is slightly turned and the ice water is slowly dripped from the fountain onto the piece of sugar. The cold sugar water then drips from the spoon into the glass of absinthe releasing oils and perfuming the air with fennel, grand wormwood and anise. The combination also begins to turn milky white in color, as the water mixes with the anise. Fountain will accommodate 1 to 6 people at one time. Drink ratio varies from 1 part absinthe, to between 3 to 5 parts water, depending on one's preference.