Corpse Reviver No.2

First appears in the 1930 Edition of Harry Craddock`s Savoy Cocktail Book in a section called `Reviver Cocktails`, designed to be drunk before 11am or `whenever steam and energy are needed`.

This is one of those drinks that just works. A perfect balance of liqueur, vermouth, spirit and citrus. The style existed briefly around 1920; until the more practical style of the 30`s, the Sour (citrus, spirit, liqueur, no vermouth) won the day. The flavours are all clearly defined and at the same time beautifully mixed. A truly great classic drink.

Find yourself a boston glass, or a three piece shaker will do the trick. Add equal parts Beefeater Gin, fresh lemon juice, Cointreau and Lillet Blanc. Ice yourself a martini glass, adding a dash of absinthe (or Pernod, should you have none)  to the ice. Ice up the Boston, top it with the cap and give it a short, sharp shake. Discard the ice from the martini glass and strain your perfectly balanced Corpse Reviver No.2 into its vessel. Garnish with a wide peel of lemon, twisted.

I’ve found this drink also works well mixed in a tupperware container in bulk, up to a liter measured out in a Pyrex jug, shaken and poured long over ice on a hot Sydney day, garnished with mint to bring out the cooling anise…