Episode 14: Absinthe Guru Don Spiro

Don Spiro

Joanna, Don, and Kevin. Photo by Doug McMillan.


Absinthe was not available in the United States for more than 70 years. Today it is one of the rising stars in the world of spirits. On our show we chat with Don Spiro, who has been running a monthly absinthe drinking party (not an absinthe tasting) called the Green Fairy Society at the Red Room (85 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003). The party is the first Thursday of the month. Don tells us how this two-year old monthly party is part of the rising presence that absinthe is gaining nationally, and a little of the history and traditions of this mysterious alcohol. He dispels some of the myths and misconceptions of the brand.

Green Fairy

Green Fairy party at the Red Room. Photo by Rose Callahan.

We talk about where to get absinthe cocktails in New York such as Maison Premiere (298 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249) and in Harlem, Doc Hersons, the first absinthe distillery in New York City. We find out all of this and more, and Don’s update on what is happening in the vintage community today, in this exclusive podcast recorded live at The Lambs.

For more about the hosts, follow Jo online and Twitter @JoannaPokerDocs and Insta @joannadocs. Kevin is online here and Twitter @k72ndst and Insta @k72ndst. Our Facebook Page is here.

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