Are you ready to shake things up and put a twist on a classic cocktail? Look no further than the Corpse Reviver, a historic drink that has been revamped and reimagined for the modern era. This iconic cocktail, which originated in the early 20th century, typically consists of gin, Lillet Blanc, Cynar, and absinthe, with a splash of citrus and a dash of bitters. But why stick to the original when you can add your own unique spin?
In this article, we’ll be exploring 19 different Corpse Reviver recipes that put a creative twist on the classic. From lavender infusion to smoky mezcal substitutes, and from cardamom bitters to chili-rimmed passion fruit, these cocktails are sure to surprise and delight even the most seasoned mixologists. So whether you’re a fan of sweet and sour or bold and bitter, we’ve got you covered with our Corpse Reviver cocktail recipes.
Corpse Reviver No. 2 with Lavender Infusion
Revive Your Spirits with a Twist: Corpse Reviver No. 2 with Lavender Infusion
This creative spin on the classic Corpse Reviver cocktail infuses the floral notes of lavender into the original recipe, adding a unique and intriguing dimension to this already iconic drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz lavender syrup (see below)
– Dash of absinthe
– Ice
– Lavender sprig, for garnish
Lavender Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add lavender buds and steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve before using.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and lavender syrup to the shaker.
3. Dash absinthe into the mixture.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a lavender sprig.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Corpse Reviver with Cardamom Bitters
This twist on the classic Corpse Reviver cocktail adds a unique warmth and depth with the addition of cardamom bitters. Perfect for sipping on a chilly evening, this drink is sure to revitalize your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
– 1/2 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
– 1/4 oz Honey Syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 2 dashes Cardamom Bitters
– Slice of grapefruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, vermouth, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Add 2 dashes of cardamom bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Cooking Time: None! This is a mixed drink, not a dish that requires cooking time.
Smoky Corpse Reviver with Mezcal Substitute
This recipe puts a smoky spin on the classic Corpse Reviver #2, substituting mezcal for gin and adding a dash of citrus to balance out the bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces mezcal
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce Cynar
– 1/2 ounce Lillet Blanc
– 1 dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add mezcal, grapefruit juice, triple sec, Cynar, and Lillet Blanc to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Corpse Reviver Blue with Blue Curaçao
This classic cocktail has been a staple of the mixology world since the early 20th century. With its unique blend of blue curaçao, gin, and citrus, it’s no wonder why this drink is said to “revive” even the most exhausted of souls.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces gin
– 1/2 ounce blue curaçao
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of soda water
– Lemon twist or wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, blue curaçao, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None required – just shake, strain, and serve!
Blood Orange Corpse Reviver with Rosemary
This vibrant cocktail combines the tanginess of blood orange juice with the herbal notes of rosemary, creating a unique and revitalizing drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz blood orange juice
– 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a Collins glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add gin, blood orange juice, Lillet Blanc, and lime juice to the shaker.
4. Add honey syrup and stir until dissolved.
5. Add rosemary sprigs to the shaker and muddle gently.
6. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
7. Garnish with additional rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed – just shake and serve!
Passion Fruit Corpse Reviver with Chili Rim
A twist on the classic Corpse Reviver cocktail, this refreshing drink combines the sweetness of passion fruit with a spicy kick from chili-infused rim. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique addition to your cocktail repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz passion fruit puree
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– Splash of lemon juice
– Ice
– Chili-infused salt for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with chili-infused salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add gin, passion fruit puree, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
4. Shake until chilled (about 15-20 seconds).
5. Strain into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel or edible flower, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Coconut-Washed Corpse Reviver No. 2
This Coconut-Washed Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a tropical twist on the classic Corpse Reviver cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the citrusy flavor of Lillet Blanc with the creamy richness of coconut and the subtle sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz Coconut Cream
– Splash of Honey Syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Lillet Blanc, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Float coconut cream on top by gently pouring it over the back of a spoon.
6. Add a splash of honey syrup to balance the flavors.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Earl Grey-Infused Corpse Reviver
This revitalizing cocktail combines the soothing effects of Earl Grey tea with the bold flavors of gin, lemon, and honey. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an evening apéritif.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 1/4 cup Earl Grey tea, brewed and cooled
– Ice
– Lemon twist or slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Pour in the cooled Earl Grey tea.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None (ready in minutes!)
Corpse Reviver No. 1 with Ginger Liqueur
This revitalizing cocktail is a twist on the original Corpse Reviver No. 1, adding a spicy kick from ginger liqueur. Perfect for a pre-dinner pick-me-up or an evening apéritif.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/4 oz absinthe
– Dash of orange bitters
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, ginger liqueur, and Lillet Blanc.
3. Add a dash of absinthe and orange bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: None
Matcha Green Tea Corpse Reviver
This revitalizing cocktail is perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up. The combination of matcha green tea, gin, and citrus creates a unique and refreshing flavor profile that’s sure to revitalize your spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/4 cup matcha green tea powder
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add matcha green tea powder to the shaker and muddle gently with a bar spoon until well combined.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Corpse Reviver with Blackberry Sage Shrub
Revive the Spirits with Corpse Reviver and Blackberry Sage Shrub
This classic cocktail gets a refreshing twist by adding a sweet and savory blackberry sage shrub, perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz Cynar
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup blackberry sage shrub (see below)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or blackberry, for garnish
Blackberry Sage Shrub:
– 1 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, Lillet Blanc, Cynar, and lemon juice.
2. Add ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Top with blackberry sage shrub.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or blackberry.
Cooking Time: None (shrub can be made ahead of time)
Peppermint Winter Corpse Reviver
This revitalizing cocktail combines the invigorating essence of peppermint with the soothing warmth of winter spices, perfect for a cold evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Peppermint liqueur (e.g., Crème de Menthe)
– 1/2 oz Winter Spiced Apple Cider Syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz Lemon juice
– Splash of Sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Winter Spiced Apple Cider Syrup:
– Combine 1 cup apple cider, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until syrupy.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, peppermint liqueur, winter spiced apple cider syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None (prepared cocktail)
Cucumber Basil Corpse Reviver Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing cocktail that combines the coolness of cucumber and basil with a hint of citrus and spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 3/4 oz Cucumber-infused Simple Syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz Basil syrup (see note)
– Slice of cucumber, for garnish
– Sprig of basil, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, cucumber-infused simple syrup, lime juice, and basil syrup.
3. Shake until well combined and chilled, about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of cucumber and a sprig of basil.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Note: To make cucumber-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1/2 cucumber (peeled and thinly sliced) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool. For basil syrup, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool.
Tropical Corpse Reviver with Pineapple Rum
This refreshing cocktail combines the classic Corpse Reviver with a tropical twist, featuring pineapple rum and citrus flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz pineapple rum
– 1/4 oz grenadine
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, triple sec, grapefruit juice, and pineapple rum.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add a splash of grenadine and stir gently to combine.
6. Top with soda water and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Smoked Cherry Corpse Reviver with Bourbon
This smoked cherry variation of the Corpse Reviver cocktail adds a rich and fruity flavor profile to the classic recipe. The bourbon barrel-aged cherry liqueur gives this drink its unique smoky character.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz bourbon barrel-aged cherry liqueur
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lime wheel and cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and cherry liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Add two dashes of Angostura bitters on top.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Honey-Lavender Corpse Reviver Sour
This refreshing cocktail combines the soothing qualities of honey and lavender with the revitalizing properties of citrus, making it perfect for a warm evening or a pick-me-up any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz lavender syrup (see note)
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or lavender sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and lavender syrup.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or lavender sprig.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make lavender syrup, steep 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in 2 tbsp dried lavender buds for 30 minutes. Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Espresso Corpse Reviver with Coffee Bitters
This modern twist on the classic Corpse Reviver #2 adds a boost of espresso and coffee bitters to create a rich, complex flavor profile. Perfect for those who need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 3/4 oz Freshly brewed espresso
– 1/2 oz Cynar
– 1/2 oz Coffee bitters
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– Dash of orange bitters
– Lemon twist or coffee bean garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, espresso, Cynar, coffee bitters, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Add a dash of orange bitters on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or coffee bean.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Bean Corpse Reviver with Aged Gin
This sophisticated cocktail is a modern take on the classic Corpse Reviver #2, featuring aged gin and the warmth of vanilla bean. Perfect for sipping on a chilly evening or as a unique offering at your next cocktail party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz aged gin
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise)
– 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/4 oz absinthe
– Dash of orange bitters
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the aged gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Lillet Blanc.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Drizzle absinthe in a thin layer across the surface of the drink (optional).
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Corpse Reviver No. 3 with Absinthe Foam
This classic cocktail is elevated by the addition of creamy absinthe foam, adding a luxurious and mystical touch to this already complex drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Cynar
– 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– Dash of orange bitters
– Absinthe foam (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Cynar, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Add a dash of orange bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
6. Top with absinthe foam (recipe below).
Absinthe Foam Recipe:
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1 tsp granulated sugar
Whip heavy cream, absinthe, and sugar until stiff peaks form.
Summary
Take a twist on the classic Corpse Reviver cocktail with these 19 innovative recipes. From lavender infusion to cardamom bitters and smoky mezcal substitute, each variation adds a unique edge to this timeless drink. Try the Blood Orange Corpse Reviver with rosemary, or the Coconut-Washed Corpse Reviver No. 2 for a tropical twist. The article also features creative takes like the Passion Fruit Corpse Reviver with chili rim and the Peppermint Winter Corpse Reviver. Whether you’re looking to spice up your cocktail game or explore new flavors, these recipes are sure to delight.