"Absinthe" is the French common name for Artemisia absinthium, "Grande Absinthe", or Grand Wormwood. Although there are many different plants commonly known as "wormwood", only the absinthium species truly qualifies a spirit to be labeled "absinthe".

The absinthium in Marteau is a blend of wildcrafted Montana plants and a special proprietary variety propagated especially for Marteau and grown in the warm Mediterranean climate of southern Oregon.

If wormwood is the definitive ingredient, Green Anise—or aniseed—is the definitive flavor of absinthe.  A historic absinthe such as Marteau is made with the best Spanish aniseed, as opposed to star anise or anise oil, and has a more balanced herbal flavor that gives it a richer, more complex and exotic taste.

Somewhat similar to Anise, but more earthy and spicy, Sweet Fennel—fenouil doux—completes what is often referred to as the "holy trinity" of absinthe: grand wormwood, anise and fennel. Marteau contains a blend of the finest, most flavorful fennel cultivars available.

Angelica root is responsible for the earthy top note which gives Marteau its mature and refined characteristic.

The seed is peppery and warm, and will be recognizable by those familiar with another green, herbal spirit: Chartreuse.  Used judiciously, these botanicals lend to the mystery and subtlety for which Marteau is known.

The Iris is believed to be the flower represented by the Fleur de Lys, a heraldic emblem and symbol of France as well as the city of New Orleans. The iris, or orris, root has been used in spirits and fragrances for centuries.  It imparts a delicate, soft floral flavor and fragrance very similar to violets.  It is also one of the primary ingredients in London dry style gins.

The color of Marteau is obtained by infusion of whole, natural herbs, added directly to the distillate.  Petite Wormwood, also known as Roman Wormwood, and Melissa are the perfect traditional choices.

In addition to color, this secondary infusion of herbs lends nuances of flavor and aroma.  In fact, that's the principal reason for their use.

Only Grape Spirits, un-aged brandy, are used for making Marteau absinthe. The prestigious quality of Marteau starts with dark, ripe Columbia Valley grapes. These are first made into wine, which in turn is distilled into high proof grape spirits in the same distillery as Marteau Absinthe is made. This clean, pure spirit is the finest medium with which to produce a truly historically authentic absinthe—just as it was done 100 years ago with the very best of absinthes.

While the grape spirits are distilled to near-neutrality (above 85% ABV) and contribute only modestly to the taste of Marteau, their aroma and mouth-feel provide the perfect palette upon which to blend many brilliant and seductive layers of flavor.