The invention of Corpse Reviver No. 2 is credited to Harry Craddock, an American bartender who made a name for himself at the Savoy Hotel in London during the early 20th century. Born in 1875, Craddock emigrated to the United Kingdom in 1897 and eventually found his way to the prestigious Savoy Hotel in 1920. It was here that he became renowned for his innovative cocktail creations, including the Corpse Reviver No. 2.
But what led to the creation of this intriguingly named cocktail? Well, it all began with the onset of Prohibition in the United States in 1920. As the alcohol industry was forced underground, many skilled bartenders, like Craddock, sought opportunities abroad. Craddock's move to London allowed him to continue honing his craft while escaping the harsh restrictions of Prohibition.
During his time at the Savoy Hotel, Craddock published the famous “Savoy Cocktail Book” in 1930, which contained over 750 cocktail recipes. Among these recipes were two variations of the Corpse Reviver, aptly named Corpse Reviver No. 1 and Corpse Reviver No. 2. While Corpse Reviver No. 1 is a gin-based cocktail, it is the Corpse Reviver No. 2 that gained significant popularity and has stood the test of time.
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a delightful blend of gin, lemon juice, Lillet Blanc (a French aperitif wine), Cointreau (an orange liqueur), and a dash of absinthe. It is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that has become a staple in the world of mixology. The combination of citrus, herbal, and floral flavors creates a balanced and complex drink that is both invigorating and satisfying.
It is worth noting that the term “Corpse Reviver” has its origins in the 19th century when it was used to describe a category of cocktails believed to have medicinal properties, capable of curing hangovers and reviving weary souls. These cocktails were often consumed in the morning, hence the name “Corpse Reviver.”
As for my personal experience with the Corpse Reviver No. 2, I vividly remember the first time I encountered this cocktail. It was a warm summer evening, and I found myself at a trendy cocktail bar in the heart of the city. The bartender, known for his expertise in mixology, recommended the Corpse Reviver No. 2 as a refreshing and adventurous choice.
As the drink was prepared before my eyes, I was captivated by the vibrant colors and the aromatic scents that filled the air. The first sip was a revelation. The crispness of the gin, the tanginess of the lemon juice, and the subtle sweetness of the Lillet Blanc and Cointreau combined harmoniously, while the hint of absinthe added a mesmerizing depth to the overall flavor profile.
Since that initial encounter, I have had the pleasure of enjoying Corpse Reviver No. 2 on several occasions. Each time, it brings back memories of that warm summer evening and serves as a reminder of the artistry and creativity that goes into crafting a well-balanced cocktail.
Harry Craddock, an American bartender who sought refuge from Prohibition in London, is credited with inventing the Corpse Reviver No. 2. This iconic cocktail, found in Craddock's “Savoy Cocktail Book,” continues to be celebrated for its refreshing and complex flavors. Whether enjoyed as a morning pick-me-up or a sophisticated evening libation, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 stands as a testament to the timeless allure of mixology and the art of creating unforgettable cocktails.