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Corpse Reviver cocktail
Alcoholic Cocktail Cocktail glass Medium

Corpse Reviver

The Corpse Reviver is a classic cocktail known for its refreshing and invigorating qualities, making it a perfect pick-me-up. With a harmonious blend of gin, triple sec, and Lillet Blanc, this drink is balanced by the tartness of lemon juice and a hint of absinthe, creating a delightful experience for the palate.

5 Ingredients
5 min Prep Time
Cocktail glass Glass
Chilled Best Served
refreshing sour strong

Ingredients

  • Gin spirit 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
  • Triple Sec liqueur 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
  • Lillet Blanc liqueur 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
  • Lemon Juice juice 22.5 ml (0.75 oz)
  • Absinthe 1 dash

How to Make a Corpse Reviver

Shake, strain, straight up, cocktail glass rinsed with absinthe

Bartender Tip

💡

Make sure to rinse the glass with absinthe to enhance the aromatic profile of the cocktail.

History of the Corpse Reviver

The Corpse Reviver cocktail dates back to the early 20th century and was originally part of a family of drinks designed to 'revive' the drinker after a long night. Its popularity surged in the 1930s and has since become a staple in cocktail culture.

About the Corpse Reviver

The Corpse Reviver is a cocktail that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with Gin, Triple Sec, Lillet Blanc and served in a Cocktail glass.

Best enjoyed at brunch, during celebrations.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

Did You Know?

The name 'Corpse Reviver' suggests its intended purpose as a restorative drink, often consumed to 'revive' someone after a long night of partying.

Corpse Reviver Variations

Corpse Reviver No. 1 This variation uses brandy instead of gin, resulting in a richer and slightly sweeter flavor profile. Swap: Brandy replaces gin
Corpse Reviver with Grapefruit This version incorporates fresh grapefruit juice instead of lemon juice, adding a unique tartness and a hint of bitterness. Swap: Grapefruit juice replaces lemon juice

Pairs Well With

Smoked salmon bagels Eggs Benedict Quiche Lorraine

Quick Facts

~150
Calories
Medium
Strength
5 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is over-pouring the absinthe, which can overpower the cocktail's delicate balance of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the Corpse Reviver cocktail?

The Corpse Reviver cocktail dates back to the early 20th century and is often associated with the 'Corpse Reviver No. 2' recipe in the 1930s cocktail book by Harry Craddock. It was originally intended as a restorative drink to revive those who indulged too heavily the night before.

Why is absinthe used in the Corpse Reviver cocktail?

Absinthe adds a unique herbal complexity and a touch of anise flavor to the Corpse Reviver. It is used sparingly, often rinsing the glass to impart just enough of its distinctive taste without overpowering the other ingredients.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Corpse Reviver cocktail?

While the classic recipe calls for gin, triple sec, Lillet Blanc, and lemon juice, you can experiment with different types of gin or even use a flavored liqueur instead of triple sec. However, such changes may alter the cocktail's intended flavor profile.

What type of gin works best for the Corpse Reviver?

A London dry gin is typically recommended for the Corpse Reviver, as its juniper-forward flavor complements the other ingredients. However, a more floral or citrus-forward gin can also create interesting variations on the classic.

Is the Corpse Reviver cocktail suitable for brunch?

Yes, the Corpse Reviver is often enjoyed as a brunch cocktail due to its refreshing and revitalizing qualities. Its balanced flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of brunch dishes.

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