Yes, absinthe is legal in Ireland, but its sale and production are tightly controlled under national and EU regulations. The Irish Revenue Commissioners enforce licensing for absinthe containing thujone above 10 mg/kg, aligning with EU Directive 88/388/EEC. Recent 2026 amendments to the Intoxicating Liquor Act further restrict advertising and online sales to licensed vendors only.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Ireland
- Thujone Limits: Absinthe with thujone exceeding 10 mg/kg requires a Revenue-issued spirits license. Products below this threshold are treated as standard spirits.
- Licensing Requirements: Distillers and importers must obtain a spirits manufacturing license from the Revenue Commissioners, with annual inspections for compliance.
- Advertising Restrictions: The 2026 Intoxicating Liquor Act bans absinthe advertising on social media and restricts promotions to licensed premises only. Health claims are prohibited under the Health (Sale of Alcohol) Act 2023.