About Erick La Fee Expertise I can answer any and all questions concerning Absinthe / Absinth.
Experience I have imported Absinthe for over 7 years here in the United States for my personal use and have tried most all brands. I am also very knowledgeable on thujone and its effects. In the matter of the US laws concerning Absinthe, I am also well versed.
Publications Several articles concerning Absinthe published national and internationally.
Education/Credentials Bachlors Degree in the field of Humanities , Masters Degree in the field of Psychology. Avid history buff.
Expert: Erick La Fee Date: 12/27/2006 Subject: absinth
Question it is illegal to bring absinth into the usa, but is it illegal to own it? someone once told me of that loop hole in the law.
Answer Hello,
Here is some basic information for you first.
U.S. Customs codes state "The importation of Absinthe and any other liquors or liqueurs that contain an excess of artemisia absinthium is prohibited."
In real world practice it is illegal to import any liquor that contains a detectable concentration of artemisia absinthium.
U.S. Customs can seize anything labeled as absinthe. If they do or don't, that depends on the knowledge and discretion of the agent.
If absinthe does not contain artemisia absinthium, and there are several brands available, the product is fully legal in the US. Most companies that sell non artemisia absinthium absinthe guarantee no U.S. customs problems.
If you want to distill your own absinthe, you will need a license from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms. The reason is because absinthe contains alcohol, and it is illegal to distill alcohol in the United States without a license.
And be advised, that to distill Absinthe is illegal as well. Sorry.
Now for the answer to your question. Again, sorry. But it is still illegal to simple own Absinthe... And here is an example of why. Lets say you come over to my house and offer to give me a stolen stereo for free. As a gift lets say. Now, just because I do not know it is stolen, does not negate the fact that I am in possession of stolen property. And therefore, I am committing a crime. Whether or not I am aware of it. The law states that "Ignorance is not an excuse" therefore, it is still illegal to own Absinthe regardless of how you get it...
Now for the good news!
If there is one thing I can assure you of my friend, it is this. There are hundreds of people here in the USA who are as involved and interested in Absinthe just as much as you are:-) and all you need to do is hook up with the right group and you will soon be tasting your first sip of the green fairy! Hey, I was once as green as emerald absinthe before the louche! "the word "louche" means when absinthe turns milk white from the mixing of water".
Well I hope that helps you and again, do not despair! Absinthe is out there waiting for you:-) I promise!
Good luck and enjoy!!!!!
E.
