The Corpse Reviver #2: A Classic Revival in Every Sip

What Makes the Corpse Reviver #2 Special?

The Corpse Reviver #2 epitomizes balance. It is light yet complex, refreshing yet layered, delivering a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and herbal notes. Each ingredient plays a crucial role:

· Gin offers a crisp, botanical base.

· Cointreau contributes bright, citrusy sweetness.

· Lillet Blanc provides floral and slightly bitter undertones.

· Fresh lemon juice adds the necessary tang to unify the flavors.

· Absinthe rinse introduces a subtle herbal depth without overpowering the drink.

The result is a cocktail that is both delightful to sip and visually appealing. Its pale yellow hue and elegant aroma make it a standout choice for any occasion, whether at a dinner party or enjoyed alone.

A Brief History of the Corpse Reviver #2

The Corpse Reviver #2 is part of a family of cocktails dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These "Corpse Revivers" were initially conceived as hangover cures, designed to "revive" someone from the metaphorical dead after a long night.

The recipe for the Corpse Reviver #2 first appeared in Harry Craddock’s The Savoy Cocktail Book, published in 1930. It quickly became the most popular and enduring version of the Corpse Reviver series due to its refreshing and approachable flavor. Today, it remains a staple in cocktail bars worldwide.

How to Make the Perfect Corpse Reviver #2

Crafting the Corpse Reviver #2 is straightforward, requiring only a few key ingredients and a shaker. Here is how to create this timeless cocktail:

Ingredients:

· 3/4 oz gin: A dry gin works best to complement the citrus and herbal notes.

· 3/4 oz Cointreau: For a sweet and zesty orange flavor.

· 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc: Adds floral, slightly bitter complexity.

· 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for optimal brightness.

· 1 dash absinthe: Used to rinse the glass for a subtle herbal touch.

· Ice: For shaking and chilling the drink.

· Lemon peel (for garnish): Adds an elegant finishing touch.

Instructions:

· Prepare the glass: Rinse a chilled coupe or martini glass with a dash of absinthe, swirling to coat the inside, then discard the excess.

· Combine the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, and lemon juice.

· Shake well: Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to fully chill and combine the ingredients.

· Strain and serve: Double strain the mixture into your prepared glass to ensure a smooth texture.

· Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with a twist of lemon peel for added aroma and visual appeal.

Tips for the Best Corpse Reviver #2

· Chill your glass: A properly chilled glass enhances the overall experience of the cocktail.

· Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality spirits make a noticeable difference.

· Don’t overdo the absinthe: A light rinse suffices—too much can overwhelm the drink.

· Balance the sweetness: For a less sweet cocktail, reduce the Cointreau by a splash.

Variations on the Classic Corpse Reviver #2

The versatility of the Corpse Reviver #2 allows for several variations:

· Corpse Reviver #1: The predecessor to #2, made with cognac, Calvados, and sweet vermouth.

· Modern Twists: Swap Lillet Blanc for Cocchi Americano or similar fortified wine to experiment with different flavor profiles.

· Corpse Reviver Royale: Add a splash of champagne for a sparkling twist.

Why You’ll Love the Corpse Reviver #2

The Corpse Reviver #2 is more than just a cocktail—it is a sensory experience. Its perfect balance of flavors, intriguing history, and elegant presentation make it a standout choice for any cocktail enthusiast. Whether revisiting a classic or exploring it for the first time, the Corpse Reviver #2 never fails to impress.

Conclusion

The Corpse Reviver #2 is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cocktails. Its refreshing flavor, rich history, and timeless elegance make it a must-try for anyone who appreciates the art of mixology.