Naked And Famous Cocktail Recipe

There’s something inexplicably thrilling about concocting a cocktail that’s as bold as it is refined—let me introduce you to the Naked and Famous, where mezcal and Aperol mingle with an unexpected finesse.

Vibrant cocktails are my passion, and the Naked and Famous is a standout for its bold, smoky, and tangy character. The duo of mezcal and Yellow Chartreuse is a thrilling way to start the drink, and the Aperol and fresh lime juice may present as an unexpected combination but are crucial for the balanced yet interesting flavor the Naked and Famous delivers.

And what flavor! The aroma alone—cultivated by the cocktail’s smokiness and the herbaceousness of Yellow Chartreuse—makes it hard to resist.

Ingredients

• Mezcal: A smoky, earthy spirit, low in carbohydrates, adds depth and complexity.
• Yellow Chartreuse: Herbal liqueur, infused with 130 plants, brings sweetness and spice.
• Aperol: Bittersweet, citrusy aperitif, features notes of orange and rhubarb, low in sugar.
• Fresh lime juice: Rich in vitamin C, provides refreshing tartness and bright citrus notes.

Ingredient Quantities

• 3/4 oz Mezcal
• 3/4 oz Yellow Chartreuse
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Fresh lime juice
• Ice, for shaking

How to Make this

1. Collect and quantify the components that make up this drink: 3/4 ounce Mezcal, 3/4 ounce Yellow Chartreuse, 3/4 ounce Aperol, and 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice.

2. To fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

3. Measure out the Mezcal and place it in the shaker.

4. Add the Yellow Chartreuse to the shaker.

5. Pour the Aperol into the combination inside the shaker.

6. Put the freshly expressed lime juice into the shaker.

7. Ensure the shaker’s lid is on securely, then shake it with gusto for approximately 15-20 seconds, or until you detect that the contents have achieved a uniform chill.

8. Pour the cocktail into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.

9. Let the drink sit momentarily so that it can achieve a smooth surface.

10. Enjoy your Naked and Famous cocktail right away, as it should be served without delay.

Equipment Needed

1. Jigger (or measuring tool)
2. Cocktail shaker
3. Ice cube tray or container
4. Citrus juicer
5. Knife
6. Chopping board
7. Coupe or cocktail glass

FAQ

• What type of Mezcal is best for a Naked And Famous cocktail?Select a Mezcal that has a nicely balanced smoky flavor, such as those made from Espadin agave, to complement the other ingredients without making them feel out of balance.
• Can I substitute Yellow Chartreuse with Green Chartreuse?Although you could try variations, the cocktail finds a better match in the milder, sweeter Yellow Chartreuse. This is because it, in contrast to the sharper Green Chartreuse, can serve not only as a flavorful but also as a more congenial presence in the drink.
• Is it essential to use fresh lime juice?Certainly, fresh lime juice is essential to obtaining the bright and zesty personality of the drink.
• Can I batch this cocktail for a party?Indeed, scaling the recipe upward for a large batch is perfectly acceptable. Just mix all ingredients in a large pitcher by using equal parts of each one, chill it, and then shake individual servings with ice before serving. All elements of the original recipe remain intact.
• How should I serve the Naked And Famous cocktail?Chilled coupe glass is suggested for serving the cocktail. It is simply the best when it comes to both presentation and temperature.
• Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?It can be difficult to create a non-alcoholic version because of the liqueurs and the very distinct flavors of Mezcal, but you can use non-alcoholic Mezcal alternatives and experiment with syrups that are citrusy or herbal.

Naked And Famous Cocktail Recipe Substitutions and Variations

3/4 oz Mezcal: For a different smoky flavor profile, use 3/4 oz of a smoky Scotch whisky in place of the mezcal.
3/4 oz Yellow Chartreuse: Use 3/4 oz of Strega or Benedictine instead, for a slightly different herbal flavor profile.
3/4 oz Aperol. Substitute with 3/4 oz of Campari for a more bitter flavor, or use 3/4 oz of a bitter orange liqueur like Gran Classico.
3/4 oz Fresh lime juice: Substitute with 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice for a slightly different, less sharp alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Chill Your Glass Before you start mixing the ingredients, place your cocktail glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill it. A cold glass enhances the drink’s enjoyment and keeps it at the perfect temperature longer.

2. Quality Ice Matters Use clear, large ice cubes for shaking. They dilute the drink less and chill it more effectively, ensuring that the cocktail’s flavors remain bold and true.

3. Fresh Lime Juice is Key Always use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled for the best flavor. Fresh juice adds a vibrant acidity that balances the sweetness of the liqueurs and the smokiness of the mezcal.

4. Consider a Garnish Though the original recipe doesn’t call for one, a thin lime wheel or a twist of lime zest can add an aromatic element and a bit of visual flair to your cocktail.

5. Fine Strain for Smoothness After shaking, you might want to double strain the cocktail while pouring it into the glass. This helps to catch any small ice chips, giving the drink a smoother texture and more polished presentation.