One of the original ‘hair of the dog’ drinks, the Corpse Reviver No.2 is a tangy and refreshing cocktail that has become a beloved classic.
The Corpse Reviver cocktails were created in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At the time, these cocktails were often marketed as “hair of the dog” remedies for hangovers, and were believed to have the ability to revive even the most severely hungover person. The name “Corpse Reviver” likely comes from this reputation as a restorative drink for those who had imbibed too much alcohol.
There are several recipes in this category of drink, however many have been lost to time. Despite their origins as hangover cures, both the Corpse Reviver No.1 and No.2 have become beloved classic cocktails.
The exact origins of the No.1 are unclear, but it is believed to have been first documented in the 1860s. The No.2, on the other hand, was first published in the Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930, and is the more famous of the two cocktails.
The No.2 is made with gin, triple sec, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and a splash of absinthe. The absinthe is used as a rinse. This is a technique in which a small amount of a liquid, is poured into a glass, swirled around, and then discarded. It leaves a thin coating of the liquid on the inside of the glass. This technique is used to add a subtle but distinct flavor and aroma to a cocktail, without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Watch the video here. If you make this one, don’t forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram, I love to see it!
Corpse Reviver No.2
Ingredients
- Absinthe to rinse
- 22.5 mL London dry gin
- 22.5 mL Lillet blanc
- 22.5 mL orange liqueur or a triple sec
- 22.5 mL lemon juice freshly squeezed
- Lemon zest twist to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pour a small amount of absinth into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Swirl around and discard.
- In the base of a cocktail shaker, add gin, Lillet blanc, orange liqueur and lemon juice. Add ice and shake to chill.
- Strain into the prepared glass and garnish with a lemon twist if using.
Looking for more gin cocktails? Try a Gin Basil Smash or Gin & Jam cocktail.
Leave a comment