Corpse Reviver No.2 cocktail
The Corpse Reviver No.2 is a classic gin sour with a twist, famous for its equal-parts recipe and playful name. Made with gin, triple sec, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and a touch of absinthe, it’s bright, balanced, and a little mischievous.
Originally billed as a hangover cure, it’s now a favourite among cocktail enthusiasts who enjoy sharp, citrus-driven drinks with depth.
- Prep Time:
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- coupe glass
Ingredients
- 25 ml gin
- 25 ml triple sec (e.g. Cointreau)
- 25 ml Lillet Blanc (Or dry vermouth)
- 25 ml lemon juice (Fresh)
- 1 dash absinthe
- Orange peel (Optional)
Instructions
- Rinse a chilled coupe glass with a dash of absinthe and discard the excess
- Add gin, triple sec, Lillet Blanc, and lemon juice to a shaker filled with ice
- Shake until well chilled
- Strain into the prepared coupe glass
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel
FAQ
What’s in a Corpse Reviver No.2?
It’s an equal-parts mix of gin, triple sec, Lillet Blanc (or dry vermouth), and fresh lemon juice, with a dash of absinthe. The result is sharp, citrusy, and slightly herbal.
How strong is it?
With equal measures of gin, triple sec, and Lillet (all around 20–40% ABV), a single serve comes to about 2 alcohol units – similar in weight to the Last Word or Whiskey Sour.
Why is it called a “Corpse Reviver”?
It was designed as a hangover cure in the early 20th century, part of a family of cocktails meant to “revive” you the morning after. The No.2 became the most famous of the set.
What makes it different from other gin sours?
Unlike a Southside or Tom Collins, the Corpse Reviver No.2 layers absinthe and fortified wine for extra depth, giving it a more complex, grown-up feel.
When should you serve it?
Traditionally as a late-morning or early-afternoon “pick-me-up,” but today it’s just as common as a pre-dinner aperitif thanks to its refreshing acidity.