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Article published by Société Perrier

It’s All About Absinthe at Sarah B., a Luxurious Old Montreal Drinkery

by Samar Besada

Located on the ground level of the Intercontinental Hotel, Sarah B. is a bar that specializes in serving absinthe. Société Perrier had a chat with Jaimy Polman, an expert in the anise-flavoured spirit, which was emblematic of 19th century artists.

At Sarah B., everything is carefully calibrated to create a plush, intimate experience, both for longstanding enthusiasts and curious first timers. The establishment’s name is inspired by the visit of Sarah Bernhardt, the queen of French tragedy, to Quebec in 1905. The cocktails you can sample, as well as the décor – the fireplace mantels, the paintings by Canadian artists, the authentic absinthe decanters and the Green Fairy Alcoves – bring to mind the Prohibition era. Beyond all the storytelling, you’ll find an intoxicating and contemporary selection of furs, velvet and emerald green.

Jaimy Polman guides clients along for the absinthe ritual. First, one must select the type of absinthe. Then, a spoonful of the spirit along with a sugar cube is placed on a glass – the sugar helps take the edge off the absinthe’s bitterness. Finally, one adds as much ice-cold water as desired, patiently waiting for it to flow out of a fountain.

A variety of cocktails are prepared with absinthe. The popular Jacques Cartier Collins is whipped up with Versinthe, Absolut Pears and Limoncello. Served with a few Provençal bites by executive chef Matthieu Saunier, the “Green Hour” (an absinthe apothecary’s equivalent to happy hour) becomes a playground for hedonists of all stripes!
Sarah B, 360 Saint-Antoine W., Open from 4 p.m. to midnight.

http://societeperrier.com/montreal/articles/le-bar-a-absinthe-sarah-b-volupte-dans-le-vieux-montreal/