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Absinthe gained extraordinary popularity in the 19th century, especially in Europe. However, the drink's rise coincided with the decline of the French wine industry due to the grape phylloxera plague. As wine availability waned, many turned to absinthe. This shift alarmed the wine industry leaders and the temperance movement, forming an unexpected alliance against the spirit. Disturbingly, during this time, counterfeit absinthes were being produced, often laced with toxic chemicals to replicate the drink’s signature emerald hue.