Absinthe

The recent US absinthe explosion has been widely reported on, much to my delight.  Everything about this spirit, from the history to the aesthetics (just look at that label on La Fee Absinthe) to the ritualized way of imbibing is highly phantasmaphilic in nature.  You can drink it the classic way, diluted with water and sugar, or in one of the many cocktail combinations floating around on various recipe sites.  As luck would have it, I live near the marvelous Borisal Liquor & Wine Shop, which is the largest absinthe retailer in the states.  I love this place because it is a bit clandestine:  beneath its humble decor is an exquisite selection, reasonable prices, and knowledgeable, warm staff.  If you can't visit them in person, do go to their site anyway and order yourself a bottle or twelve.