The corpse reviver No. 2 cocktail was first published in the famous Harry Craddock’s Savoy Cocktail Book from the 1930s, introducing numerous timeless cocktails to new-age drinkers. This classic Halloween cocktail is listed on the International Bartender Association’s IBA Official Cocktails List. Tracing its roots all the way back to the 1870s, this ageless cocktail has been adapted into three versions and can be found in specific bar menus. The most renowned corpse reviver that continues to attract people to this day is the corpse reviver No 2. The whimsical name behind the Halloween cocktail was inspired due to the drink having enough strength to bring a body back to life. In other words — to increase one's energy in the morning or cure hangovers.
This delicious, gin-sour cocktail consists of a family of ingredients. A mix of liquors, a touch of citrus, and ending with a black licorice finish from the absinthe. What makes this spooky cocktail so unique is the incorporation of dry vermouth or Lillet Blanc. The Lillet Blanc (a French aperitif) is a very aromatic wine enhanced with herbs that give the corpse reviver No. 2 cocktail a hint of citrus. A fine combination that is mixed, shaken with ice, and served in a chilled cocktail glass that has been rinsed with absinthe for an anise aroma.
The tart and refreshing feeling this cocktail gives you makes it ideal to have early in the day, but you could also enjoy it in the evening. If ordered at a brunch or enjoyed on a relaxing night, keep in mind Craddock’s message: “Four of these taken in swift succession will un-revive the corpse again.”
Cocktail Ingredients
- 1 ounce of gin
- 1 ounce of lemon juice
- 1 ounce of Cointreau
- 1 ounce of dry vermouth (or Lillet Blanc)
- ½ teaspoon of absinthe
- Orange peel or wedge for garnish
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Servings: 1 drink
Cocktail Directions
- Add gin, lemon juice, Cointreau, dry vermouth (or Lillet Blanc), and absinthe into a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice and shake the mixture until cold.
- Strain the finished product into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel or wedge.
Tools & Equipment
A 24-ounce gold-plated cobbler shaker is used in this recipe to expertly mix, chill, and serve this classic sour gin cocktail. The premium stainless steel construction allows you to dependably shake and mix the delicately balanced concoction without the potential of any leakage. Its gold-plated finish elegantly complements all kinds of decor. Plus, the top of this cocktail shaker has a strainer to both serve and strain in one go without the need for additional supplies.
To ensure that the measurements of each ingredient needed in this cocktail recipe are accurate, a gold-plated Japanese-style jigger is used. The gold-plated finish of this sleek jigger upgrades your showmanship when crafting the cocktail. This elegant bar tool features a double-sided construction to easily switch between 1- or 2-ounce measurements. Built with a tall and narrow design, this jigger securely contains liquids inside to avoid accidental spills from occurring. To maintain its pristine appearance, it is recommended to hand wash only.
This tart cocktail is poured into a 7-ounce coupe glass to perfectly display the complex flavors of the gin, citrus, licorice, and anise for the full corpse reviver No. 2 drinking experience. The wide bowl provides ample space for the orange wedge or peel garnish to complete the look. To confidently drink and serve during the day or evening, this vintage coupe glass is durable for continuous use. This coupe glass also withstands dishwasher use to avoid excessive scrubbing and cleaning.
Prepare To Come Alive
The corpse reviver No. 2 is a potent cocktail that can quickly revive any event. With just a few simple ingredients, you can mix up this drink and bring new life to any guest. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween-themed event at your establishment or just want something different for your bar’s menu, the corpse reviver cocktail is a great addition.
