The Corpse Reviver is part of a category of cocktails historically referred to as “hair of the dog” or morning-after remedies. These beverages were believed to have revitalizing properties, particularly after a night of indulgence.
- The Birth of the Corpse Reviver:
- The Corpse Reviver first appeared in print in the 19th century. The term “Corpse Reviver” was often used to describe various cocktails intended to cure a hangover or revive one’s spirits.
- The most well-known version, Corpse Reviver No. 2, gained popularity in the 20th century and is attributed to Harry Craddock, the head bartender at the Savoy Hotel in London. Craddock featured the recipe in his famous cocktail book, “The Savoy Cocktail Book,” published in 1930.
- Morning-After Libations:
- During the cocktail’s early days, Corpse Revivers were considered morning-after remedies, believed to have the power to revive and rejuvenate. The use of ingredients like absinthe and citrus hinted at a certain mystique, adding to the allure of these concoctions.
- Over time, the Corpse Reviver evolved beyond its medicinal origins to become a revered classic cocktail, enjoyed for its balanced and complex flavor profile.
Corpse Reviver Ingredients
- Gin: 30ml (1oz)
- Cointreau: 30ml (1oz)
- Lillet Blanc: 30ml (1oz)
- Absinthe: 3ml (0.1oz)
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 22.5ml (0.75oz)
- Ice Cubes
- Orange Twist for garnish
Corpse Reviver Recipe
- Prepare Your Glass: Chill a coupe glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water.
- Mix Ingredients: In a shaker, combine 30ml (1oz) each of gin, Cointreau, and Lillet Blanc. Add 22.5ml (0.75oz) of fresh lemon juice and 3ml (0.1oz) of absinthe.
- Shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake well for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain: Remove your coupe glass from the freezer or discard the ice water. Strain the shaken mixture into the chilled glass.
- Garnish: Twist an orange peel over the cocktail to release its oils, then either drop it into the glass or place it on the rim.
- Enjoy: Sip your Corpse Reviver and appreciate the balance of botanicals, citrus, and herbal complexity.
Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or a nightcap, the Corpse Reviver invites you to savor the timeless allure of mixology.
Cheers to the art of crafting cocktails and the captivating revival of the Corpse Reviver, a great cocktail recipe!
