Naked & Famous: A Bright, Balanced Modern Classic with Depth

A Fósforo Mezcal Naked and Famous in a Coupe Glass with a Lime Wedge Garnish

Flavor Profile: Bright, Herbal, Tart

Originally created by Joaquín Simó, the Naked & Famous finds new dimension with the Fósforo Ensamble. Our blend of Espadilla and Tobalá agave adds richness to a vibrant mix of citrus, herbal, and bitter notes –balanced, bold, and unforgettable.

How to Make a Naked & Famous with Fósforo

¾ oz. Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble
¾ oz. Yellow Chartreuse
¾ oz. Aperol
¾ oz. Lime Juice

Shake all ingredients with ice until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Why Fósforo Mezcal Works in a Naked & Famous

Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble—a blend of espadilla and tobalá agave—is the perfect base for a cocktail built on contrast. Its subtle smoke, floral undertones, and peppery finish provide just enough structure to ground the vibrant mix of Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime.

This drink is a study in balance: tart yet smooth, herbal yet bright, smoky yet crisp. With Fósforo at the foundation, the mezcal Naked & Famous becomes a more elegant and layered version of the original.

The History Behind the Naked & Famous

The Naked & Famous debuted in the early 2010s and quickly became a modern classic. Created by Joaquín Simó at New York's acclaimed cocktail bar Death & Co., it draws inspiration from both the Paper Plane and Last Word – blending equal parts of bold, aromatic ingredients with mezcal’s mystique.

This version, featuring Fósforo Mezcal from Puebla, stays true to the original recipe while amplifying the balance and elegance that only an artisanal mezcal can bring.

Tips for a Perfect Naked & Famous

  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice to preserve the cocktail’s bright balance.

  • Don’t skip the chill—this drink benefits from a hard shake and cold glassware.

  • Try a lime twist to enhance citrus aromatics without adding acidity.

FAQ: Naked & Famous with Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble

Q: What does the Naked & Famous taste like?
A: It’s bright, herbal, slightly bitter, and tart—balanced by the smooth smokiness of mezcal. Each sip offers a vibrant contrast of citrus and alpine complexity.

Q: What kind of Chartreuse should I use?
A: Yellow Chartreuse is essential. It’s softer and more honeyed than its green counterpart, and pairs perfectly with Aperol and mezcal.

Q: Can I use another amaro in place of Aperol?
A: You can try alternatives like Contratto Aperitif or Cappelletti, but the balance will shift. Aperol provides the ideal gentle bitterness and color.

Q: Is this drink very smoky?
A: With Fósforo Mezcal, the smoke is refined and balanced – not overpowering – offering depth without dominating the palate.

Q: Can I pre-batch this cocktail?
A: Yes. Combine equal parts of each ingredient, refrigerate, and shake individual servings with ice just before pouring.

Previous
Previous

Mezcal Old Fashioned: A Rich, Earthy Reinvention of a Classic

Next
Next

Mezcal Clover Club: A Silky, Tart Take on a Pre-Prohibition Classic