There’s something playful and refreshing about the Corpse Reviver No. 2—it’s tart, citrusy, and just the right amount of boozy. It’s one of those classic cocktails that feels fancy but comes together quickly with a few bar staples. I’ve made this drink countless times, and every time I’m reminded why it’s a favorite for brunch and lazy weekend afternoons. Let’s walk through how to make it, what to pair it with, and a few fun ways to change it up.
Corpse Reviver No. 2
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Chilled coupe or martini glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) Cointreau (or another orange liqueur)
– 1 oz (30 ml) Lillet Blanc (or dry vermouth as a backup)
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 1 dash absinthe (or anise-flavored syrup if you’re avoiding alcohol)
– Ice (for shaking)
– Optional garnish: orange twist or cocktail cherry
Method
- Start by chilling your glass. Pop it in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep the drink.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, and lemon juice. Add a handful of ice and shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold—about 15 seconds.
- Empty your chilled glass. Add a dash of absinthe and gently swirl it to coat the inside. Pour out any excess. This gives the drink that subtle licorice aroma without overpowering it.
- Strain the shaken cocktail into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist or cherry, if you like. Then sip and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Corpse Reviver No. 2
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t bring the same zing.
- Balance is everything. Use equal parts for that signature sweet-sour harmony.
- Don’t overdo the absinthe. A single dash is plenty—it’s meant to whisper, not shout.
- Chill your glass. It keeps the drink crisp and lets the flavors shine.
Make-Ahead & Storage
– You can pre-mix the gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, and lemon juice in a sealed jar and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– Don’t add ice or absinthe until just before serving to keep it fresh and aromatic.
– This recipe doesn’t store well after shaking, so it’s best enjoyed right away.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines brightest as a brunch drink or a pre-dinner sipper. It’s lively, a little cheeky, and pairs well with bold flavors.
Great Pairings:
– Eggs Benedict or Florentine: The lemony tang cuts through rich hollandaise beautifully.
– Fresh fruit salad: The citrus notes in the drink echo the brightness of ripe berries and melon.
– Oysters on the half shell: I thought I’d share one of my favorite pairings—this combo feels like a seaside vacation in a glass and a bite.
– Spicy appetizers: Buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers, or anything with heat plays nicely with the drink’s cool, crisp flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
– Gin: Not a fan? Try vodka for a milder base.
– Lillet Blanc: If you can’t find it, dry vermouth works in a pinch.
– Absinthe: Use pastis, Herbsaint, or even a dash of anise extract mixed with water if you’re avoiding alcohol.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Skipping the absinthe rinse. It seems small, but it adds a lot of character.
– Using bottled lemon juice. Fresh juice is key to keeping the drink vibrant.
– Over-shaking. You want it cold, not watered down—shake just until chilled.
Why This Recipe Works
The equal-parts ratio makes it easy to remember and hard to mess up. The gin adds backbone, the Cointreau brings orange sweetness, the Lillet lends a soft floral note, and the lemon juice brightens everything up. That little dash of absinthe? It adds just enough intrigue to keep things interesting.
Fun Variations
Corpse Reviver No. 1
– Swap gin for brandy, and use sweet vermouth instead of Lillet.
– Still citrusy, but warmer and richer in flavor.
The Blue Reviver
– Use blue Curaçao instead of Cointreau for a fun color twist.
– Tastes similar but adds a pop of vibrant blue to your glass.
Herbal Awakening
– Add a splash of green Chartreuse for an herbal, alpine kick.
– Garnish with a mint sprig for even more freshness.
Virgin Corpse Reviver No. 2
– Mix 1 oz lemon juice, 1 oz orange juice, 1 oz white grape juice, and a splash of simple syrup.
– Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass. No alcohol, but still bright and flavorful.
Q&A
Is Corpse Reviver No. 2 strong?
It’s got a kick, but the citrus and liqueurs round it out. It’s more balanced than boozy.
Can I skip the absinthe?
Absolutely. The drink will still be delicious, just a little less complex.
When should I drink it?
Traditionally a “hair of the dog” drink, but honestly, it’s perfect any time you want something light and bright.
Is this cocktail vegan?
Yes! No animal products here.
Can I make a batch for a party?
You sure can. Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Keep it chilled and shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
Can kids try the non-alcoholic version?
Yes—just skip the booze and it becomes a fun, citrusy mocktail.
There’s a reason this cocktail has stuck around for nearly a century. It’s zippy, elegant, and easy to make. Whether you’re shaking one up for brunch or sharing a round with friends, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 brings a little sparkle to any moment.
