The Naked and Famous cocktail is a modern classic that gained popularity in the early 2010s. This cocktail is known for its bright, complex flavor profile that balances the sweetness of agave with the smokiness of mezcal and the tartness of lime. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, recipe, and nutrition facts of the Naked and Famous cocktail.
History of the Naked and Famous Cocktail
The Naked and Famous cocktail was created in 2011 by Joaquín Simó, a bartender at the renowned Death & Co. in New York City. Simó created this cocktail as a tribute to the four influential cocktail books that inspired him: Ted Haigh’s Vintage Spirits and Forgotten Cocktails, Harry Craddock’s The Savoy Cocktail Book, Dale DeGroff’s The Craft of the Cocktail, and Gary Regan’s The Joy of Mixology. The name of the cocktail was inspired by a song of the same name by the indie rock band The Talking Heads.
Why People Like the Naked and Famous Cocktail
The Naked and Famous cocktail has gained a following for its unique flavor profile that combines the sweetness of agave with the smokiness of mezcal and the tartness of lime. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the bold flavors of mezcal, but also want a drink that is balanced and refreshing. The addition of Aperol, an Italian aperitif made with bitter orange, gives this cocktail a bright and citrusy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
IThe Naked and Famous cocktail is made with four ingredients:
- Mezcal: This is the primary spirit in the cocktail, and it gives it its signature smoky flavor. Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from the agave plant, much like tequila, but with a distinct smoky flavor that comes from roasting the agave before distillation.
- Aperol: Aperol is an Italian aperitif made from bitter orange, gentian root, and rhubarb. It has a bright orange color and a bitter, citrusy flavor that pairs well with mezcal.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a tart, acidic element to the cocktail that balances the sweetness of the agave and Aperol.
- Agave Syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener made from the agave plant, which is also used to make mezcal and tequila. It has a mild, honey-like flavor that complements the other ingredients in the cocktail.