The Corpse Reviver is a classic cocktail with an unforgettable name and an even more unforgettable taste. Known as a “hair of the dog” drink meant to revive you after a long night, this cocktail is a staple for those who love bold, complex flavors with a touch of sophistication. There are several variations of the Corpse Reviver, but the most famous is the Corpse Reviver No. 2, a perfectly balanced blend of gin, lemon juice, triple sec, Lillet Blanc, and a hint of absinthe. With a bright, citrusy flavor and a touch of herbal complexity, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is potent. Let’s explore the fascinating history, unique qualities, and recipe for this iconic drink.
The Origins of the Corpse Reviver
The Corpse Reviver dates back to the late 19th century when “reviver” drinks were popular morning cocktails meant to “revive” someone after a heavy night of drinking. These were typically strong drinks with bold flavors intended to shake off the effects of the night before. The Corpse Reviver family of cocktails appeared in Harry Craddock’s 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book, where Craddock famously warned that drinking too many could have the opposite effect, sending you “back to the grave.”
While the original Corpse Reviver (now known as the Corpse Reviver No. 1) is a heavier mix of brandy, Calvados, and sweet vermouth, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is the version that became a modern classic. Known for its crisp, refreshing taste and balance of flavors, the No. 2 is perfect for those looking for a revitalizing cocktail with a hint of intrigue.
Why the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is So Unique
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 has a unique appeal for several reasons:
- Perfect Balance of Bold Flavors: The Corpse Reviver No. 2 combines gin, orange liqueur, Lillet Blanc, and fresh lemon juice, creating a cocktail that’s both bright and complex. The splash of absinthe adds an herbal depth, making it a drink that’s both refreshing and full of character.
- Versatile and Refreshing: With its citrus-forward profile, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is refreshing and light enough for daytime sipping, yet its potent combination of ingredients gives it a surprising kick.
- Distinctive Aroma and Flavor: The hint of absinthe gives the Corpse Reviver No. 2 a unique aromatic quality, with subtle herbal and licorice notes that complement the gin and citrus beautifully.
How to Make the Perfect Corpse Reviver No. 2
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is relatively easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a quick shake.
Classic Corpse Reviver No. 2 Recipe
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz (2.25 cl) gin
- ¾ oz (2.25 cl) Cointreau or triple sec
- ¾ oz (2.25 cl) Lillet Blanc
- ¾ oz (2.25 cl) fresh lemon juice
- 1 dash absinthe or pastis (for a hint of anise)
- Ice
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and a dash of absinthe.
- Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist to add a touch of citrus aroma.
Tip: If you don’t have absinthe, you can use a drop of pastis or absinthe rinse to add the subtle licorice-like aroma.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Gin: The choice of gin is important to the balance of the Corpse Reviver No. 2. A London Dry gin is traditional, as it provides a clean, juniper-forward flavor that complements the other ingredients. Brands like Tanqueray or Beefeater work well, but you can also experiment with a more botanical gin for a softer profile.
- Cointreau or Triple Sec: Cointreau is the preferred choice for its smooth, balanced orange flavor. Triple sec can also work but may be slightly sweeter, so you may want to adjust the lemon juice accordingly.
- Lillet Blanc: Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif wine with a light, slightly floral flavor that adds sweetness and depth. It’s the ideal ingredient for creating the delicate balance of flavors in this cocktail.
- Absinthe: Absinthe provides the herbal, licorice-like aroma that makes the Corpse Reviver No. 2 so distinctive. Use just a dash or even a light rinse of the glass if you prefer a milder anise flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for achieving the bright, citrusy flavor of the Corpse Reviver No. 2. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrancy needed for this cocktail.
Tips for Perfecting Your Corpse Reviver No. 2
- Adjust the Absinthe to Taste: Absinthe can be a strong flavor, so use it sparingly if you’re not a fan of anise. A light rinse of the glass can give just the right hint without overpowering the drink.
- Double Strain for Smoothness: Using a fine mesh strainer helps remove any ice shards, resulting in a silky, smooth cocktail that’s enjoyable to sip.
- Chill Your Glass: Pre-chilling your glass enhances the drinking experience, keeping the cocktail cold and refreshing.
- Balance the Sweetness and Sourness: The Corpse Reviver No. 2 should have a balanced profile, so adjust the lemon juice or Lillet Blanc as needed to suit your taste.
Corpse Reviver Variations to Try
While the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is the most popular, here are a few variations that offer unique twists on this classic cocktail family:
- Corpse Reviver No. 1: For a richer, stronger drink, try the original recipe with brandy, Calvados (apple brandy), and sweet vermouth. This version has a warmer, fuller flavor profile with a hint of fruitiness.
- Corpse Reviver No. 3: A lesser-known variation, the No. 3 combines Scotch whisky, dry vermouth, and Bénédictine for a smoky, herbal twist.
- Tequila Corpse Reviver: Swap the gin for tequila and the Lillet Blanc for Cocchi Americano for a refreshing, slightly spicier twist.
- Corpse Reviver No. 2 with Absinthe Rinse: For a more subtle absinthe flavor, rinse the glass with absinthe instead of adding it to the shaker. This adds a lighter hint of anise that blends well with the other ingredients.
- Blood Orange Corpse Reviver: Add a splash of blood orange juice to the classic No. 2 recipe for a slightly sweeter, colorful variation that’s perfect for winter.
When to Serve the Corpse Reviver No. 2
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a versatile cocktail that’s suitable for various occasions:
- Brunch or Early Afternoon: Given its “reviving” qualities, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is ideal for brunch or as a refreshing early afternoon drink.
- Pre-Dinner Aperitif: The cocktail’s bright, citrusy flavor makes it an excellent aperitif, stimulating the appetite and setting the stage for a meal.
- Special Occasions: With its unique name and intriguing flavor, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a fantastic conversation starter, making it perfect for cocktail parties or themed gatherings.
- Halloween and Themed Parties: The name “Corpse Reviver” gives this drink a spooky charm, making it a fun choice for Halloween celebrations or ghostly-themed events.
Why You Should Try the Corpse Reviver No. 2
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is more than just a cocktail—it’s a piece of cocktail history with a memorable name and a bold, refreshing flavor. With its balanced combination of gin, orange, lemon, and a hint of absinthe, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a drink that’s both complex and refreshing. It’s a cocktail that embodies the art of mixology, combining seemingly contrasting flavors into a harmonious blend that’s bright, smooth, and slightly mysterious.
If you’re looking for a drink that’s a little off the beaten path, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a fantastic choice. So next time you’re in the mood for a classic with a twist, shake up a Corpse Reviver, raise your glass, and toast to a timeless drink that’s always a pleasure to sip. Cheers to reviving your spirit!