The Naked & Shameless cocktail is a vibrant and bold spin on the modern classic "Naked & Famous," first crafted in 2011 by Joaquín Simó at the famed Death & Co. bar in New York City. If you’re a fan of the classic Paper Plane or the Last Word, this mezcal-based cocktail is the perfect marriage of smoky, fruity, and herbal flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. At Mezcalum, we’re excited to offer our version of this unforgettable cocktail, incorporating our all-natural, artisanal mezcal to elevate it to a whole new level.

Mezcalum is a brand rooted in tradition and excellence, using only the finest Espadin and Cuishe agave harvested in Oaxaca’s central valleys. Our mezcal is rich in flavor and steeped in Mexican heritage, making it the perfect base for a daring cocktail like the Naked & Shameless.

What Makes This Cocktail Special?

At Mezcalum, we’re all about creating exceptional mezcal experiences, and the Naked & Shameless is no exception. By blending the robust smokiness of our mezcal with the herbal sweetness of Genepy, the tartness of fresh lime juice, the bittersweetness of Aperol, and the tropical flair of papaya juice, this cocktail is an explosion of flavor that’s both complex and refreshing.

Why Mezcalum Mezcal?

Our Mezcalum mezcal is the star ingredient of this cocktail, and for good reason. Our agave is hand-selected and crafted using age-old methods passed down through generations. Unlike other spirits that may be loaded with additives, our mezcal is zero carbs, zero sugar, non-GMO, vegan, and all-natural. You’ll get pure, rich agave flavors with every sip, plus the depth and complexity that only traditional Oaxacan mezcal can deliver.

Be sure to explore more about our artisanal mezcal and how it’s made by visiting Mezcalum’s production page.

Where Did the Naked & Famous Come From?

The Naked & Famous cocktail, which inspired this mezcal variation, was created by bartender Joaquín Simó in 2011. Simó was working at the iconic New York City bar Death & Co. when he dreamt up this drink. His goal was to create something balanced yet bold, smoky yet refreshing, and packed with a variety of flavors. The original drink combined equal parts mezcal, Aperol, Yellow Chartreuse, and fresh lime juice.

This cocktail quickly became a fan favorite and a go-to for those who enjoy modern cocktails with smoky undertones. At Mezcalum, we’ve taken that formula and added a new layer of complexity with the inclusion of Genepy and papaya juice, resulting in the Naked & Shameless.

How Is the Naked & Shameless Different From Other Mezcal Cocktails?

The uniqueness of this cocktail lies in its balance of boldness and fruitiness. While many mezcal cocktails lean heavily into smoky flavors, the Naked & Shameless creates a symphony of contrasts. The Mezcalum mezcal provides that traditional smoky base, but it’s paired with the sweet, herbaceous notes of Genepy, the bittersweet and citrusy bite of Aperol, and the tropical touch of papaya juice. It’s a drink that delivers complexity without being overwhelming, making it perfect for cocktail lovers looking for something a little different.

When Should You Enjoy the Naked & Shameless?

The Naked & Shameless is a cocktail for all occasions. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, enjoying a summer evening on the patio, or simply winding down after a long day, this mezcal cocktail will add an extra layer of fun to your day. With its balance of smoke, citrus, and sweetness, it’s particularly well-suited for warm weather, but mezcal enthusiasts will appreciate its complexity year-round.

For more exciting mezcal cocktail recipes, check out our recipe page and explore the rich history of mezcal through our blog.

FAQ: Naked & Shameless Cocktail

What is the difference between Mezcal and Tequila?

Mezcal and tequila are both made from agave, but they come from different regions in Mexico and use different production methods. Mezcal is typically smokier due to the roasting process of the agave, while tequila has a cleaner, crisper taste. Check out more about mezcal on our Mezcal 101 page.

What can I use instead of Genepy in this cocktail?

If you can’t find Genepy, you can substitute it with Yellow Chartreuse, which has a similar herbal profile and pairs well with mezcal. However, we recommend sticking with the original ingredients for the best flavor.

Can I use a different mezcal in this recipe?

You could, but for the best flavor and authenticity, we highly recommend using Mezcalum mezcal. Our mezcal is crafted with care using traditional methods and the finest agave, making it the perfect base for this cocktail. Visit our mezcal selection to find the right bottle for you.

What glassware is best for the Naked & Shameless cocktail?

We recommend serving this cocktail in a rocks glass over one large ice cube to ensure the drink stays chilled without becoming diluted.

Is the Naked & Shameless strong?

The Naked & Shameless is a well-balanced cocktail with a robust flavor profile. While it does pack a punch thanks to the Mezcalum mezcal and Aperol, the lime juice and papaya juice add a refreshing touch to keep it balanced.