Mezcal

The Naked & Famous is a vibrant, smoky cocktail that combines equal parts mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and lime juice for a perfectly balanced drink with a touch of complexity. Created by bartender Joaquín Simó in 2011 at New York City’s Death & Co, this modern classic has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best mezcal cocktails around. With its smoky, herbal, and citrus notes, the Naked & Famous is perfect for adventurous drinkers and mezcal fans looking for a unique twist. Let’s dive into the history, unique qualities, and recipe for crafting the perfect Naked & Famous at home.

The Origins of the Naked & Famous

The Naked & Famous was created by Joaquín Simó, an award-winning bartender and former partner at Death & Co, a well-known cocktail bar in New York City. Inspired by another iconic cocktail, the Last Word (a classic made with gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice), Simó decided to create a mezcal-based variation that would have a similar balance of bold flavors.

Named after the clothing brand Naked & Famous, Simó’s cocktail has quickly become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts, with its unique blend of mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and lime juice. The Naked & Famous strikes a perfect balance of smokiness, sweetness, and acidity, making it both refreshing and complex—a true modern classic that showcases mezcal’s versatility.

What Makes the Naked & Famous So Unique

The Naked & Famous is distinctive for a few reasons:

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: With equal parts mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and lime juice, the Naked & Famous achieves a harmonious blend of smokiness, citrus, and herbal sweetness.
• Smoky Mezcal Base: Mezcal adds a signature smoky depth that distinguishes this drink from other cocktails, giving it an earthy, slightly mysterious edge.
• Colorful, Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright orange hue from the Aperol and lime juice makes this cocktail as visually appealing as it is flavorful, adding a touch of vibrancy to any setting.

How to Make the Perfect Naked & Famous

The Naked & Famous is easy to make and follows a straightforward formula of equal parts. Here’s the classic recipe for this bold, balanced cocktail.

Classic Naked & Famous Recipe

Ingredients:

• ¾ oz (2.25 cl) mezcal
• ¾ oz (2.25 cl) Aperol
• ¾ oz (2.25 cl) yellow Chartreuse
• ¾ oz (2.25 cl) fresh lime juice
• Ice
• Lime twist or dehydrated lime wheel for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and fresh lime juice.
2. Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
3. Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with a lime twist or a dehydrated lime wheel for a touch of aroma and visual appeal.

Tip: Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor balance—it brings the acidity needed to counter the richness of the mezcal and the sweetness of Aperol and Chartreuse.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

1. Mezcal: Look for a quality mezcal that has a balanced, smoky profile without overpowering the other ingredients. Del Maguey Vida is a popular choice for its approachable smokiness and smooth finish, though any espadín mezcal will work well.
2. Aperol: Aperol provides a subtle sweetness and bright orange color, along with light herbal and citrus notes. It’s less bitter than Campari, making it an ideal choice for balancing the mezcal’s smokiness.
3. Yellow Chartreuse: Yellow Chartreuse adds an herbal sweetness with floral and honeyed notes, complementing the Aperol and mezcal while keeping the drink balanced. It’s milder than green Chartreuse, allowing the other flavors to shine.
4. Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the Naked & Famous, adding the necessary acidity and brightness to counter the richness of the other ingredients.
5. Garnish: A lime twist or dehydrated lime wheel enhances the cocktail’s presentation and aroma, adding a subtle hint of citrus on the nose.

Tips for Perfecting Your Naked & Famous

• Shake Well for a Smooth Texture: Shaking the cocktail thoroughly with ice not only chills it but also creates a smooth, well-blended drink.
• Measure Carefully: The equal parts formula is key to achieving the Naked & Famous’s balance. Use precise measurements for each ingredient to get the right flavor.
• Experiment with Garnishes: A lime twist, dehydrated lime wheel, or even an orange twist can enhance the drink’s presentation and aroma, adding a touch of personal style.
• Serve in a Chilled Glass: Serving the Naked & Famous in a chilled coupe or cocktail glass helps keep it cold and refreshing.

Naked & Famous Variations to Try

While the classic Naked & Famous is delicious as is, here are a few variations to explore:

1. Spicy Naked & Famous: Add a few dashes of chili bitters or muddle a small slice of jalapeño for a spicy twist that complements the smokiness of the mezcal.
2. Grapefruit Naked & Famous: Substitute fresh grapefruit juice for lime juice for a slightly sweeter, more citrus-forward version.
3. Blood Orange Naked & Famous: Use fresh blood orange juice in place of lime juice for a seasonal twist that enhances the cocktail’s color and adds a unique flavor.
4. Smoky Negroni Twist: Try substituting Campari for Aperol for a slightly more bitter version that leans closer to a smoky Negroni.
5. Naked & Famous Fizz: Top the finished cocktail with a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, fizzy version that’s perfect for warm weather.

When to Serve the Naked & Famous

The Naked & Famous’s bold, refreshing profile and balanced flavors make it ideal for various occasions:

• Pre-Dinner Aperitif: With its balanced acidity and herbal complexity, the Naked & Famous is a great choice for whetting the appetite before a meal.
• Casual Gatherings: This cocktail’s vibrant presentation and unique flavors make it a fun option for sharing with friends or serving at a cocktail party.
• Adventurous Tasting: For those looking to explore mezcal cocktails, the Naked & Famous is a must-try, offering a modern take that showcases mezcal’s versatility.
• Summer or Outdoor Events: Its bright citrus and balanced sweetness make the Naked & Famous a refreshing choice for warm-weather gatherings or outdoor events.

Why You Should Try the Naked & Famous

The Naked & Famous is more than just a cocktail—it’s a celebration of bold, modern flavors and innovative mixology. With its blend of mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and lime juice, this drink offers a harmonious balance of smokiness, herbal sweetness, and citrusy brightness. It’s perfect for fans of mezcal, adventurous drinkers, or anyone looking to try a new classic with a twist.

For fans of smoky cocktails or those looking to expand their mezcal repertoire, the Naked & Famous is a must-try. Its easy preparation, eye-catching presentation, and layered flavors make it a standout choice that’s sure to impress.

So next time you’re in the mood for a drink that’s bold, balanced, and a little bit daring, mix up a Naked & Famous, raise your glass, and toast to the art of modern cocktails. Cheers!