SiestaCocktail recipe
Rating
Crafted at New York City’s Flatiron Lounge by Katie Stipe, the Siesta puts a bittersweet twist on the classic Hemingway Daiquiri by swapping tequila for rum and Campari for maraschino. Though born in the modern cocktail renaissance, its lineage stretches back to the tropics of the 1930s, reimagined for contemporary palates.
Bright citrus notes from fresh lime and grapefruit are balanced by just enough simple syrup to round out the edges, while Campari lends a delicate whisper of bitterness that keeps each sip intriguing.
Ideal for a late-afternoon pause or an aperitif before dinner, the Siesta’s brisk acidity and mellow warmth make it a versatile crowd-pleaser that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Siesta cocktail offers a delightful dance of flavors, combining tequila's smooth warmth with the crisp zing of lime and grapefruit juice, all artfully balanced by a touch of simple syrup. The Campari's subtle bitterness acts as a sophisticated counterpoint, adding depth without overwhelming the palate. This cocktail’s refreshing brightness is perfectly suited for a leisurely afternoon or a sophisticated pre-dinner sip, making it both an ode to classic cocktail sensibilities and a modern twist on tropical elegance.
Method
How to make a Siesta
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- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the tequila blanco, lime juice, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and Campari
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- Shake vigorously until the shaker feels well chilled
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- Strain the liquid into a pre-chilled coupe glass
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- Garnish by floating a lime wheel on the surface and serve immediately
Power tips
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Find out more- Pre-chill both your coupe glass and your cocktail shaker in the freezer for about 15 minutes before using. This ensures your Siesta remains colder for longer and enhances the overall drinking experience.
- To elevate the citrus flavors, opt for freshly squeezed lime and grapefruit juice. The fresh juices will significantly enhance the cocktail's brightness and depth, which is crucial in a drink with such a delicate balance.
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FAQ's
What is the history or origin of the Siesta cocktail?
The Siesta cocktail was crafted by Katie Stipe at New York City's Flatiron Lounge. It's a modern creation inspired by classic cocktails such as the Hemingway Daiquiri. The Siesta switches out rum for tequila and replaces maraschino liqueur with Campari, providing a contemporary twist. Although developed during the modern cocktail renaissance, it pays homage to the tropical drinks popularized in the 1930s, creating a refreshing blend that caters to contemporary tastes while maintaining ties to its vintage roots. This adaptation, with its balance of citrus, sunny tequila, and the bittersweet complexity of Campari, offers a unique and flavorful experience reminiscent of its historical inspirations.
When is the ideal occasion to serve the Siesta cocktail?
The Siesta cocktail is ideal for a variety of occasions, particularly those that call for a refreshing and slightly sophisticated drink. This cocktail suits a late-afternoon pause perfectly, acting as a delightful aperitif before dinner. The bright citrus notes and brisk acidity make it especially fitting for warm climates or summer gatherings. Its balanced profile is equally at home at cocktail parties and modern, elevated social gatherings. The Siesta's versatility ensures it can be enjoyed both by those who appreciate classic cocktails and those looking for a new twist on traditional favorites.
What role does Campari play in the Siesta cocktail?
Campari is an essential ingredient in the Siesta cocktail, contributing a layer of complexity with its signature bittersweet profile. In this drink, Campari adds a whisper of bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tart notes from the lime and grapefruit juices. This balances the overall flavor, ensuring no single element dominates. Additionally, the vibrant color of Campari lends the Siesta an appealing visual allure. Its inclusion reimagines traditional tropical profiles for modern palates by creating a more intriguing and sophisticated taste experience.
What foods pair well with a Siesta cocktail?
The Siesta cocktail pairs excellently with a range of dishes owing to its balanced blend of sweetness, citrus, and bitterness. It complements light, flavorful appetizers such as ceviche or shrimp tacos, enhancing the freshness of seafood with its citrus profiles. Additionally, the Siesta can pair well with spicy Mexican or Southwestern dishes, where its citrus and bitter notes echo the flavor profiles without overwhelming them. The cocktail's bright acidity also makes it a fitting accompaniment to creamy cheese-based appetizers, providing a cleansing contrast that refreshes the palate between bites.
How can you customize the Siesta cocktail to suit different tastes?
The Siesta cocktail can be customized to cater to various flavor preferences. For those who favor a less bitter profile, reducing the Campari can mellow out the bitterness without losing its nuanced contributions. Alternatively, a different bittersweet liqueur, such as Aperol, can be used for an even milder bitterness and sweeter profile. Adjusting the lime and grapefruit juice ratios allows you to tailor the tartness to your liking. For a touch of floral or herbal notes, infusing the simple syrup with herbs like basil or mint can add another dimension to the cocktail. Each customization allows the Siesta to be personalized while maintaining its essential character.
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