Naked & Famous: a bold balance of Cocktail Innovation

BY: Charlotte Johansen

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updated 19 Jan 2023

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IBA Cocktail

The Naked & Famous may have a cheeky name, but it’s backed by a fearless blend of Mezcal, Aperol, and Yellow Chartreuse. Crafted by Joaquín Simó, this recipe bridges distinctive flavors to create something new and surprising. Smoky notes offset by herbaceous sweetness and subtle bitterness result in a lively, balanced sip that stays memorable from first swirl to final drop.

Naked & Famous: a bold balance of Cocktail Innovation

The heart of the Naked & Famous lies in the interplay of Mezcal, with its signature smoky character, and Aperol, offering a mild bittersweet contrast. Adding Yellow Chartreuse injects a layer of delicate herbal complexity, while fresh Lime Juice ties it all together with bright citrus tang. Though the flavor profile seems bold, the drink is impressively cohesive—none of the components dominate to the point of overshadowing the others.

Served traditionally in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass, its color can range from a gentle burnt orange to a warmer pinkish hue, depending on the precise ratio of ingredients. The aroma greets you with a soft smokiness and hints of citrus, followed by a sweet-herbal echo that invites further exploration. On the palate, the sip transitions seamlessly through smoky, citrusy, and softly bitter phases.

It’s neither too sweet nor too sharp, striking a satisfying midpoint that appeals to connoisseurs of both agave-based spirits and gentler aperitivos. If you’re looking for a modern classic that delivers layers of flavor while remaining pleasantly approachable, the Naked & Famous delivers on all fronts.

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a vibrant fusion of smoky mezcal, citrusy aperitivo, and herbal liqueur in perfect harmony.

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Did you know that Naked & Famous...

... draws inspiration from both classic sour builds and the Negroni style, bridging old and new cocktail worlds?

Who invented this cocktail

The Naked & Famous was created by Joaquín Simó in New York City around 2011, merging mezcal with aperitivo and herbal liqueur.

The origin and history of "Naked & Famous"

Unlike older classics with decades (or centuries) of lineage, the Naked & Famous emerged in the early 2010s. Joaquín Simó, a renowned bartender affiliated with establishments like Death & Co., was experimenting with ways to highlight mezcal’s smoky depth in a more accessible format. Inspired by recipes that balanced bittersweet liqueurs and citrus, Simó landed on a formula where Mezcal meshes harmoniously with Aperol and Yellow Chartreuse.

When the drink first appeared, it quickly garnered positive buzz among industry professionals and cocktail enthusiasts, thanks to its distinctive synergy of smoky, sweet, and herbal notes. People who might have been hesitant to embrace mezcal found themselves intrigued by the gentler acidity and the interplay of flavors. This new creation also arrived at a time when modern bars were increasingly celebrating innovative combinations, encouraging guests to explore beyond the usual spirit categories. Over time, the Naked & Famous has maintained a cult following, securing its place on specialty menus and in home bars as a sophisticated yet playful cocktail option.

Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Naked & Famous"

To make the perfect Naked & Famous, try these tips:

Choose a moderately smoky Mezcal, so it doesn’t overpower the citrus and herbal nuances.
Measure equal parts Mezcal, Aperol, Yellow Chartreuse, and Lime Juice (roughly 3/4 oz each).
Shake vigorously with ice for about 10-12 seconds to ensure a well-blended texture.
Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass for a tidy, elegant appearance.
Skip elaborate garnishes—its bold color and aroma often speak for themselves.

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"Naked & Famous" Variations

Bright & Famous – Uses Orange Liqueur in place of Aperol for a zestier citrus push and a different kind of sweetness.
Green Twist – Swaps Yellow Chartreuse for Green Chartreuse, amplifying herbal intensity.
Tropical & Famous – Adds a splash of Pineapple Juice or Passion Fruit purée for a fruit-forward layer.
Lighter Smoke – Chooses a milder mezcal or even a Blanco Tequila with a dash of smoky bitters.
Barrel-Aged Version – Batched and aged in a small barrel for a few weeks, enhancing depth and integrating flavors.

Embracing both tradition and modern creativity, the Naked & Famous showcases how disparate elements—mezcal’s rustic smoke, Aperol’s gentle bitterness, and Chartreuse’s herbal dimension—can unite in seamless equilibrium. It’s a cocktail that speaks to adventurous palates and proves that even fresh recipes can become enduring favorites. If you crave something bold but balanced, let this modern gem intrigue your senses.

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Current Comments: 3

billy_jane

3 Feb 2024

Too bitter for my taste. Maybe less Aperol would help.

Roberto.m

22 Jan 2024

Yellow Chartreuse is expensive but worth it. The herbal notes really shine through. Perfect proportions in this recipe.

WineLover

10 Jan 2024

The mezcal's smokiness pairs beautifully with the Aperol. Sharp and complex.