Corpse Reviver

The Corpse Reviver is a family of cocktails originally intended as "hair of the dog" hangover cures. The name refers to the supposed ability of these drinks to revive even the most tired or hungover individuals. The most famous of these is the Corpse Reviver No. 2, which is a classic cocktail that has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years.

History

The Corpse Reviver cocktails date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were first documented in cocktail books such as Harry Craddock's "The Savoy Cocktail Book" published in 1930. These drinks were typically consumed in the morning as a remedy for hangovers, hence the name "Corpse Reviver."

Variations

There are several variations of the Corpse Reviver, with the most notable being:

Corpse Reviver No. 1

This version is less well-known today but was originally made with:

• 1 1/2 oz Cognac
• 3/4 oz Calvados or Apple Brandy
• 3/4 oz Sweet Vermouth

Corpse Reviver No. 2

The more popular version, known for its refreshing and balanced taste, includes:

• 3/4 oz Gin
• 3/4 oz Cointreau
• 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc
• 3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice
• 1 dash Absinthe

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is often garnished with a lemon twist and served in a chilled cocktail glass.

Preparation

To prepare a Corpse Reviver No. 2, follow these steps:

1. Combine gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and a dash of absinthe in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Cultural References

The Corpse Reviver No. 2 has been referenced in various cocktail books and is a staple in many modern cocktail bars. Its resurgence in popularity is part of a broader trend of reviving classic cocktails from the early 20th century.

See Also

• Cocktail
• Gin
• Absinthe
• Lillet

References

• Craddock, Harry. "The Savoy Cocktail Book." 1930.
• Wondrich, David. "Imbibe!" 2007.