The name “Corpse Reviver No. 2” may sound quite morbid and peculiar for a cocktail, but it has an interesting and historical origin. The drink belongs to a family of cocktails known as “Corpse Revivers,” which were popular during the pre-Prohibition era in the early 20th century. These cocktails were believed to have the power to revive and rejuvenate the drinker, particularly after a night of excessive indulgence in alcohol.
The term “Corpse Reviver” itself suggests that these cocktails were intended to bring the dead or hungover back to life. They were often consumed as a “hair of the dog” remedy, meaning that drinking more alcohol was thought to alleviate the symptoms of a hangover. While this notion may not be scientifically accurate, it was a widely held belief at the time.
The “No. 2” in the name indicates that there were different variations of the Corpse Reviver cocktail, with each variation numbered accordingly. The Corpse Reviver No. 2 gained popularity and became the most well-known and enduring recipe among the Corpse Reviver family.
It is important to note that the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is not the only cocktail in the Corpse Reviver family. There are other variations, such as the Corpse Reviver No. 1, which is made with brandy instead of gin. However, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is often regarded as the superior and more sophisticated version.
The reason behind the choice of the name “Corpse Reviver” for these cocktails is not entirely clear. Some speculate that it may have been a marketing ploy to attract customers by promising to cure their hangovers and revive their spirits. Others believe that the name was inspired by the supposed ability of these drinks to provide a much-needed pick-me-up after a night of heavy drinking.
Despite its eerie name, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is an exquisite and refreshing cocktail that has stood the test of time. It is made with equal parts gin, lemon juice, Cointreau (an orange liqueur), and Lillet Blanc (a French aperitif wine). A dash of absinthe is added to give it a subtle herbal note and a touch of complexity. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both invigorating and delightful.
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is called so because it belongs to a family of cocktails that were believed to revive and rejuvenate the drinker. The number “2” denotes its rank among the different variations of Corpse Reviver cocktails. Despite its macabre name, this classic cocktail continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts with its intriguing history and delightful taste.