Corpse Reviver #2

corpse revier to use.jpg

A boost for the weary…

Here’s another beauty from the glory days of the early 20th century. Speakeasies, flappers, fox trot, roadsters, serious boozing. What fun!
 
The original concept was to revive a person who was terribly hung over – hair of the dog that bit you. I don’t drink before lunch (or maybe brunch) so I can’t speak to that, but they taste great, so wait until cocktail hour and go for it.
 
Plus who can resist a name like Corpse Reviver? I’d drink these even if they didn’t taste good. 
 
Actually there are least half a dozen Corpse Reviver recipes, dating back to the late 19th century. They are quite varied, and some are a little weird. I have no idea why this one happens to be #2 or who named it that, but it’s a lovely drink and I’m grateful for it.
 
It’s also pretty stiff, so go gently and you’ll feel revived. That said, have one too many, and you’ll get un-revived pretty quickly.

Corpse Reviver #2

  • One part gin 

  • One part Cointreau (any orange liqueur wil do, but a clear one will make a better-looking drink)

  • One part Lillet Blanc

  • One part fresh lemon juice

  • Two or three drops (not dashes) of absinthe (Pernod, Herbsaint, or any anise flavored liqueur will work. Even ouzo will do in a pinch.)

Shake the mix until freezing cold and serve straight up. A brandied chery makes a nice addition.