The usual ratio for drinking absinthe this way is to use five parts water to one part absinthe. The sugar and water dilutes the alcohol and masks some of the bitterness of the wormwood flavor. Of course, there are many variations on the traditional method. Some people prefer a ratio of three parts water to one part absinthe. It's also possible to drink absinthe neat, or without the water. Some modern absinthes are already sweetened, so no sugarcube is needed or desired when drinking them.
Learn about the history of absinthe...
