I had the pleasure of obtaining two bottles of ca 1937-1940 Berger Pastis 45 a while back. Berger was a well reputed brand of one of the finest absinthes before the ban, the 65% C.F Berger (read a review of the vintage Berger absinthe in the Vintage absinthes section). An absinthe that is now being reproduced by Jade Liqueurs (review of Jade reproduction can be found in the Modern Absinthes section).

So then, how's the Berger Pastis? Well, it's a pastis so I expected it to be quite sweet, which it is. But it's not at all as sweet as the Pernod Pastis. I'd say it presents a little more spicey character than many other Pastis'. Of course it is packed with anise and licorice, but it's actually not as heavy as one might think.

As expected it presents a thick steady louche and after louching, it is actually very drinkable. I'd say this is one of the absolutely best pastis' I've had this far. The only downside is, that I know what the vintage Berger absinthe tasted like, and it's a true shame that this is what they had to turn to...