Corpse Reviver

What is the best remedy for a hangover? Our ancestors of yesteryear thought a mixture of more delicious booze would revitalize and revive your corpse from that deadly hangover. Perhaps it was the numbing effect, but these days science generally tells us this is a bad idea. That said, we can’t dismiss the tasty concoctions that were created in this period.

Existing literature mentions the term “Corpse revivers” as early as the 1860’s, and recipes are found from the early 1900’s. Notably, Harry Craddock, author of the famous mentions the Corpse Reviver #2 in his book published in 1930 with the advice to be careful with these because, “…four of these taken in swift succession will unrevive the corpse again.”

There are said to be many reviver cocktails, but the following 3 have survived the test of time. In particular, the Corpse Reviver #2 is the most well-recognized and can be found at many craft cocktail bars across North America. There is no reason, however, that a well stocked bar and capable bartender couldn’t put the other two together for you – just ask!

Corpse Reviver 1

2 oz cognac/brandy
1 oz sweet vermouth
1 oz applejack/Calvados

Combine ingredients, stir, and strain.

Corpse Reviver 2

¾ oz gin
¾ oz lemon juice
¾ oz Cointreau
¾ oz Lillet Blanc
dash of Absinthe

Combine ingredients, shake, and strain.

Corpse Reviver 3

1 oz brandy
1 oz Campari
1 oz Triple Sec
½ oz Lemon Juice

Combine ingredients, shake, and strain.

Try one , or try them all! But do come back, and let me know what you think.