The Naked and Famous is a relatively recent cocktail creation—invented in 2011 by Joaquin Simo at Death & Co. in New York City—that quickly gained a following for its balanced, complex flavor profile. The drink’s name itself is a playful nod to its origins, described by Simo as a “bastard child” of two well-respected cocktails: the Last Word and the Paper Plane.
The key to this cocktail is its harmonious blend of sweet, bitter, smoky, and acidic notes. It’s an approachable yet refined drink that appeals to both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and those looking for something new.
Зміст
Why This Cocktail Works
The Naked and Famous stands out because it achieves a perfect equilibrium of flavors. The original recipe calls for equal parts of each ingredient, but many bartenders (and home mixologists) find that slightly increasing the amount of Aperol enhances the drink’s balance. Beyond taste, the cocktail’s vibrant orange hue makes it visually appealing.
The Ingredients Explained
The quality of each component matters, but here’s what you’ll need:
- Aperol : An Italian bitter apéritif, Aperol provides a bright, orange-flavored base with a gentle bitterness.
- Lime Juice : Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential. Its acidity cuts through the sweetness and smoke, preventing the drink from becoming cloying.
- Mezcal : This agave-based spirit lends the drink its signature smoky flavor. The intensity of the smoke will vary depending on the type of mezcal used.
- Yellow Chartreuse : A French herbal liqueur made by monks, Yellow Chartreuse adds floral and subtly sweet notes. Strega Liqueur is a suitable, often more affordable, substitute.
How to Make It
This cocktail is quick and simple to prepare:
- Chill a martini or coupe glass.
- Combine 1 ounce Aperol, ¾ ounce freshly squeezed lime juice, ¾ ounce mezcal, and ¾ ounce Yellow Chartreuse (or Strega Liqueur) in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20 seconds until the shaker is well-chilled.
- Strain into the chilled glass. Garnish with a lime twist if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
If you prefer a less smoky flavor, tequila (silver or reposado) can be used instead of mezcal. Keep in mind that this will change the overall character of the drink.
The Naked and Famous demonstrates how a modern cocktail can draw inspiration from classics while forging its own identity. The drink’s balanced profile and striking color make it a standout choice for any occasion.
