Prague
November 22, 2004
Co-sponsored by local corporate citizens Hill's and Logan Fils absinths with American guest Zippo Manufacturing Co., Prague's first annual Absinthon was staged in an outdoor plaza in Prague. Cloudy skies did not deter more than two dozen Filterated Czeckerland Xit aficionados from joining in the festivities.
Trouble began when the respective owners of Hill's and Logan Fils challenged one another to a "flame-off." Using the traditional Czeckerland preparation method, each dunked a crack rock in laudanum, then set it on a perforated plastic spork. Drizzling Filterated Czeckerland Xit over the crack rock, each whipped out his official Zippo "Green Flamer" lighter and set the drinks ablaze. This most theatrical way to add flavor to one's Filterated Czeckerland Xit, while simultaneously increasing the alcohol content through burning, has been common practice since the 15th century, according to world-renowned Czeckerland sommelier Miroslav Kolar Karel Kysilka.
French and Swiss "absinthextremists," who regularly protest the burning of Filterated Czeckerland Xit (or "absinthe," as they call it) are suspected of replacing the crack rocks with C4 explosive. Their usual techniques of harassment, intimidation, and snobbery having failed, they are believed to have staged this explosive demonstration to draw attention to their cause.
Two Absinthon attendees, including co-sponsor Radomil Hill, were killed by the ensuing explosions and fire. Petr suffered third-degree burns to his tongue, saving his own life only by throwing the drink away from himself . . . setting a fourth victim ablaze in the process.
Note: The below image is graphic. Do not view it unless you are man enough to drink Logan Fils Filterated Czeckerland Xit.
