Traditional Absinthe Water Fountain, 2 Spouts

This fountain is an exact replica of a vintage 19th-century two-spout Belle Époque absinthe water fountain. The removable lid features a classic "pineapple" finial, and the mouth-blown glass bowl includes a water filter. Meticulously crafted by hand, these fountains feature a chrome-plated finish over brass and are designed with two metal faucets for the simultaneous preparation of one or two glasses.

In the past, due to their high cost, absinthe fountains were not commonly found, except in upscale bars. These elegant pieces were brought to the table, allowing customers to prepare their absinthe with precision. Even today, using absinthe fountains remains the preferred method for absinthe preparation, offering perfect control over the water flow rate. Unfortunately, due to their fragility and the passage of time, only some original fountains have survived with their glass bowls intact.

• Instructions, history of absinthe, and FAQs included.
• Accommodates 1 to 2 glasses at the same time.
• Measures 17.5" (44.5 cm) tall (with lid).
• Allows approximately 7.5" (19 cm) under spouts for glasses.
• Metallic plating over brass.
• Mouth-Blown, clear glass bowl.
• Glass bowl holds approx. 6.5 cups (1.5 liters) of water.
• Simple assembly required.
• Imported.

Proper use of the fountain consists of pouring an amount of absinthe into an absinthe glass (typically 1 ounce), placing an absinthe spoon on top of the glass, and a sugar cube atop the spoon. The fountain lid is removed, fresh room-temperature water is poured into the glass bowl, then ice is added last. It is advisable to first add room-temperature water to the fountain before adding ice. Adding ice first could cause a thermal shock, which can crack the glass. The temperature change of the water must be gradual. The spigot is slightly turned, and the cold water is slowly poured or dripped from the fountain's spigot onto the sugar. The water dilutes the sugar, and the cold sugary water then drips from the spoon into the glass of absinthe, releasing essential oils and perfuming the air with fennel, grand wormwood, and anise.

The combination also turns milky white as the water mixes with the anise. Once the sugar has dissolved from the spoon, the absinthe can be sampled, and the strength and sweetness can be adjusted by adding more water or sugar to taste. The mix ratio depends on one’s liking - usually 1-part absinthe to 3 to 5 parts water. At the turn of the last century, the French had a big sweet tooth, so they typically used a large amount of sugar. Refresh water before each use. California Prop 65 compliant when properly used.

Upon receiving your fountain, we suggest washing it with room temperature water.

After use, allowing the glass globe to adjust to room temperature is recommended before washing. If you intend to use the fountain solely with water, run lukewarm or room-temperature water through the spouts, then allow the water to empty from the spouts and glass globe. Open all spouts, turn the fountain upside down, and place it on top of a kitchen towel to allow it to dry completely.

If washing the fountain, use liquid dishwashing soap with warm or room temperature water.

Never use hot water to wash the globe, as it could shock the glass.

Handwash only. Do not place in the dishwasher.