Why is Absinthe so expensive?

Answer 1

The main driving factor behind the high price of absinthe (in North America, at least - note that another factor is likely that almost all absinthe in North America is imported, leading to additional transportation costs) is the active ingredient of wormwood, also called thujone. Thujone is considered to be the main psychoactive ingredient in absinthe (although this has been debated) and allegedly, the stronger the thujone content, the more intense the absinthe experience will be. Also, due to the cost of the substance, the higher the thujone level, the higher the cost of the absinthe will be.

Of course, there are other reasons for the high price than the price of the raw materials. Absinthe is imported, it's exotic, it's highly-sought-after, it's rare - basically, that means they can charge whatever they want and still sell bottles.