The Naked and Famous cocktail is a modern classic, celebrated for its unique blend of smoky, sweet, bitter, and sour notes. This complex yet balanced drink has gained popularity among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike for its audacious flavor profile and simple, equal-parts recipe.
The Origins of a Modern Favorite
Created in 2011 by award-winning bartender Joaquín Simó while working at the renowned Death & Co bar in New York City, the Naked and Famous quickly became a staple in the cocktail world. Simó drew inspiration from two other well-known cocktails: The Last Word and Paper Plane. He has even referred to his creation as the “bastard love child” of these two drinks.
Interestingly, despite its strong association with Death & Co, the Naked and Famous first appeared on menus at Candelaria in Paris and Teardrop Lounge in Portland, Oregon, before being featured at its birthplace.
The Recipe: A Symphony of Flavors
The Naked and Famous is characterized by its equal-parts construction, combining four distinct ingredients:
- Mezcal: This is the base spirit that provides a smoky foundation for the cocktail. Del Maguey Chichicapa mezcal is often recommended for its intense smokiness, although other mezcals can be used depending on preference.
- Aperol: This Italian aperitivo adds a bitter complexity and a vibrant orange hue. It provides a tangy flavor that complements the mezcal.
- Yellow Chartreuse: This French herbal liqueur introduces sweetness and herbaceous notes to balance the other flavors. It softens the bitterness of the Aperol, the smokiness of the mezcal, and the acidity of the lime.
- Fresh Lime Juice: This ingredient adds the necessary sour element, creating balance and a refreshing zing to the overall profile of the drink.
How to Make a Naked and Famous
Here’s how to prepare this cocktail at home:
- Gather Your Ingredients: You’ll need ¾ ounce of mezcal, ¾ ounce of Aperol, ¾ ounce of yellow Chartreuse, and ¾ ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice.
- Combine: Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake: Close the shaker tightly and shake well until the outside of the shaker is chilled.
- Strain: Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
- Serve: No garnish is needed for this cocktail, but a lime slice can be used if desired.
Why It Works: The Balance of Flavors
The Naked and Famous is a testament to the power of a well-balanced cocktail. The smoky mezcal is tempered by the bitter Aperol, the sweet and herbaceous yellow Chartreuse, and the sour lime juice. This combination creates a complex yet harmonious drink that is both intriguing and satisfying. The cocktail’s unique profile has led to its widespread popularity and has made it a favorite among both bartenders and cocktail aficionados.
The Naked and Famous as a Modern Classic
The Naked and Famous has become a modern classic for several reasons:
- Simplicity: The equal-parts recipe makes it easy to remember and recreate.
- Complexity: Despite its simple recipe, the drink offers a complex interplay of flavors.
- Uniqueness: The combination of mezcal, Aperol, and Yellow Chartreuse is distinctive and memorable.
- IBA Recognition: The International Bartenders Association (IBA) has officially recognized the Naked and Famous, solidifying its place in cocktail history.
The “Mr. Potato Head” Theory
The Naked and Famous is an example of how small tweaks to classic cocktail formulas can result in new and exciting drinks. It is said to embody the “Mr. Potato Head” concept of cocktail creation, where a base template is modified by substituting one or more ingredients. In this instance, the formula of The Last Word was used, and all of the ingredients were substituted to make this unique drink.
Variations and Twists
While the classic recipe is cherished, there is always room for experimentation. Some variations and twists include:
- Mezcal Substitutions: While Del Maguey Chichicapa is the recommended mezcal, other brands can be used for slightly different flavor profiles. Using a different mezcal allows for exploration into different levels of smokiness and funk.
- Alternative Amari: Instead of Aperol, other amari could be used to alter the bitterness and herbal notes of the cocktail.
- Chartreuse Variations: Green Chartreuse could be used instead of the yellow, though this would result in a different sweetness and herbal note.
A Cocktail with Staying Power
The Naked and Famous cocktail has proven its staying power, continuing to be a favorite for over a decade since its creation. Despite supply issues with some of its key ingredients, it remains a popular choice at bars around the world, a testament to its exceptional balance and flavor.
The Naked and Famous cocktail is not just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s a perfect example of how a few carefully chosen ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its unique flavor profile and simple preparation make it a must-try for anyone interested in exploring the world of cocktails. This cocktail stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of modern mixology.
