The classic Corpse Reviver No. 2 cocktail features gin, lillet blanc, lemon juice and absinthe. You’re about to find out what all the fuss is with this delicious drink.

This legendary classic cocktail is known not only for its unique name but also for its refreshing and revitalizing taste.

Whether you are looking for a hair of the dog or simply want to impress your friends with your mixology skills, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is the perfect choice. 

The Origins of the Corpse Reviver Cocktail

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. This cocktail was first mentioned in Harry Craddock’s renowned cocktail book, “The Savoy Cocktail Book,” published in 1930.

Craddock was an American bartender who worked at The Savoy Hotel in London during the Prohibition era. The book contains a collection of classic cocktails, including the Corpse Reviver No. 2, which Craddock described as a “morning-after” drink.

The book also included a very different Corpse Reviver No. 1, but this is the recipe that took off in popularity.

Legends and Lore

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 has gained quite a reputation over the years, not only for its taste but also for its alleged hangover-curing abilities. While we can’t guarantee its effectiveness, it’s no secret that the combination of citrus and herbal ingredients can help revitalize and refresh the senses, making it a popular choice for those seeking a morning-after pick-me-up.

The Flavor Profile

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a refreshing and well-balanced cocktail that combines sweet, sour, and herbal flavors.

The drink has a citrusy aroma with hints of floral notes, making it perfect for those who appreciate a complex and layered taste.

The combination of gin, lemon juice, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, and a touch of absinthe creates a harmonious blend that is both invigorating and satisfying.

The Gin

The recipe calls for a London dry gin, and there are several great choices for a Corpse Reviver No. 2 cocktail. 

Tanqueray London Dry Gin: This gin is a classic and widely recognized. It’s robust and juniper-forward, making it a great choice for a Corpse Reviver No. 2.

Bombay Sapphire: Another excellent choice, known for its bright and crisp flavors. It’s a great balance for the citrusy and herbal elements of the cocktail.

Beefeater: A balanced gin with a good mix of botanicals, Beefeater is a solid choice that works well in a Corpse Reviver No. 2.

Sipsmith: If you’re looking for a more premium choice, Sipsmith offers a complex and smooth profile that suits this cocktail well.

Feel free to experiment with various gins and decide which you like best.

What is Lillet Blanc?

Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif wine from the Bordeaux region. It carries a delicate and complex taste that’s a blend of fruitiness, citrus, and herbal and floral undertones.

It’s made from a mix of Bordeaux region wines, which lends it a strong note of ripe and juicy fruits like pears, apricots, and honeydew melon.

The macerated citrus liqueurs used in its production give it a refreshing undercurrent of sweet and bitter oranges. Some people also detect a slight herbal and floral note that adds another layer of complexity.

It features a balanced sweetness with a slightly bitter finish, thanks to the use of quinine, a bitter compound found in tonic water, in the macerated liqueurs. 

Serving Suggestions

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your drinking experience:

• Brunch Delight: Start your weekend brunch with a Corpse Reviver No. 2 to awaken your senses and prepare for the day ahead. Its tangy and zesty flavors make it a perfect companion for eggs Benedict or smoked salmon.
• Cocktail Party Hit: Impress your guests at your next cocktail party by offering them a Corpse Reviver No. 2. Its unique name and exquisite taste will surely spark conversations and leave a lasting impression.
• Nightcap with a Twist: Instead of reaching for that usual nightcap, surprise yourself with a Corpse Reviver No. 2. Its revitalizing qualities make it an excellent choice to wind down after a long day.

Variations and Twists

While the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a classic cocktail in its own right, mixologists love to experiment and put their own spin on the original recipe. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Corpse Reviver No. Blue: Swap out the gin for blue curaçao to give your cocktail a vibrant blue hue and a tropical twist. This variation adds a touch of sweetness and a visual wow factor to the drink.
• Corpse Reviver No. Ginless: For those who prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the gin with a non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip Grove 42. You’ll still get the refreshing flavors without the alcohol content.
• Corpse Reviver No. Smoky: Add a smoky twist to your drink by using a peaty scotch instead of gin. This variation adds depth and complexity to the cocktail, perfect for those who enjoy a more robust flavor profile.

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 has stood the test of time. Its unique name, tantalizing flavor profile, and fascinating history make it a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts.

It may or may not do anything to help your hangover, but it’s a refreshing drink that’ll excite your taste buds.