Mezcal Siesta: A Bright, Bitter Escape in a Glass

A Fósforo Mezcal Siesta in a Coupe Glass

Flavor Profile: Bright, Bitter, Balanced

A modern classic with a mezcal twist, the Mezcal Siesta brings together the crisp tartness of citrus, the bittersweet edge of Campari, and the rich depth of Fósforo Ensamble. Light and complex, it's the perfect afternoon escape.

Explore the process behind our artesanal mezcal on our mezcal production page.

How to Make a Mezcal Siesta:

1½ oz. Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble
½ oz. Grapefruit Juice
¾ oz. Lime Juice
¾ oz. Simple Syrup
¼ oz. Campari

Shake all ingredients with ice until well chilled. Strain into a coupe or Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with a grapefruit peel.

Why Use Fósforo in a Siesta Cocktail?

Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble is crafted in Puebla from a blend of Espadilla and Tobalá agave, resulting in a smooth and structured mezcal with a flavor profile built for mixing. In the Mezcal Siesta, its earthy depth enhances the drink’s citrus brightness and Campari’s complex bitterness, creating a cocktail that is both familiar and fresh. The Ensamble’s notes of white pepper, papaya, and subtle smoke shine in this sessionable, afternoon-ready drink.

Whether you’re lounging under the sun or looking for a sharp pre-dinner pour, the Mezcal Siesta hits that perfect balance of bright, bitter, and smooth.

The History of the Siesta Cocktail

The original Siesta cocktail was created by New York bartender Katie Stipe in the early 2000s as a contemporary take on tequila cocktails, blending elements of the Hemingway Daiquiri and the Negroni. Known for its bold use of grapefruit juice and Campari, the Siesta quickly became a favorite in craft cocktail bars for its crisp, unexpected flavor.

The Mezcal Siesta elevates the formula with the complexity of mezcal, turning the drink into a smoky-sweet refresher with modern edge and timeless appeal. As mezcal continues to rise in popularity, variations like this one highlight its versatility in bitter-citrus formats.

FAQ: Mezcal Siesta with Fósforo Ensamble

Q: What makes this different from a traditional Siesta cocktail?
A: The classic Siesta uses tequila; this version features Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble, which adds smoky, earthy depth and a more complex flavor profile.

Q: What kind of grapefruit juice works best?
A: Ruby red grapefruit adds a slightly sweeter note and a richer color, but white grapefruit can be used for a drier, crisper finish.

Q: Can I use Aperol instead of Campari?
A: Yes, but it will be less bitter and slightly sweeter. Campari offers the ideal balance for this drink’s structure.

Q: Is Fósforo Mezcal made with additives?
A: No. Fósforo is made from 100% agave with zero additives, sugars, or artificial ingredients. It’s handcrafted in Puebla using traditional production methods.

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