The Corpse Reviver No. 1 and No. 2 are both classic cocktails that belong to the Corpse Reviver family. Although they share the same name, they differ in terms of their ingredients and flavor profiles. Let's delve into the details of each cocktail to understand their differences better.
1. Corpse Reviver No. 1:
The Corpse Reviver No. 1 is an older and lesser-known cocktail compared to its counterpart, the Corpse Reviver No. 2. It dates back to the late 19th century and was first mentioned in the 1871 book, “The Gentleman's Table Guide” by E. Ricket and C. Thomas. The original recipe for this drink included brandy, apple brandy, sweet vermouth, and a dash of absinthe. However, over time, the recipe has seen variations, and some versions even include lemon juice or orange curaçao.
The Corpse Reviver No. 1 is a rich and complex cocktail that showcases the flavors of brandy and apple brandy. The addition of sweet vermouth provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the drink, while a hint of absinthe adds a touch of herbal complexity. the Corpse Reviver No. 1 is a spirit-forward cocktail with a pronounced brandy flavor and a touch of sweetness.
2. Corpse Reviver No. 2:
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is the more well-known and popular version of the Corpse Reviver cocktail. It first appeared in the 1930s in the famous Savoy Cocktail Book by Harry Craddock. The recipe for this cocktail includes equal parts gin, lemon juice, Cointreau (orange liqueur), and Lillet Blanc (a French aperitif wine). A dash of absinthe is also added to provide a hint of herbal complexity.
Compared to the Corpse Reviver No. 1, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a lighter and more refreshing cocktail. The use of gin as the base spirit gives it a crisp and botanical flavor, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing citrusy tang. The combination of Cointreau and Lillet Blanc provides a balance of sweetness and floral notes, resulting in a well-rounded and harmonious taste. The dash of absinthe adds a subtle hint of anise and enhances the overall complexity of the drink.
The Corpse Reviver No. 1 is a richer and more complex cocktail with brandy and apple brandy as its main ingredients, while the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a lighter and more refreshing cocktail with gin, citrus, and floral notes. Both cocktails have their own unique flavor profiles and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.