Every cocktail has a story. The Siesta is a drink that stands out in my collection, and I would like to share it with you today. This cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s an experience, with the ideal balance of citrus, sweetness, and tequila. It’s the kind of drink that makes you stop and appreciate every moment. Whether you’re relaxing after a long day or looking to liven up your party, the Siesta is your go-to option. Here are some reasons why you should try this drink:
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Tasting Notes
The Siesta provides a lovely blend of flavors that dance on your tongue. The sweetness of the simple syrup wonderfully balances the sharpness of the grapefruit juice, while the lime juice adds a spicy tang. The tequila has a smooth, agave-based backbone, with a hint of Campari for depth and a slightly bitter finish. This beverage is delightful, with a brilliant hue and an energizing yet soothing flavor.
Equipment and Glassware
To make the ideal Siesta, you will need a cocktail shaker, a strainer, and a fine mesh screen for double filtering. This results in a smooth, pulp-free cocktail. Serve your Siesta in a chilled coupe glass to highlight its elegance and concentrate the aromatics, making each sip a treat.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Tequila (preferably blanco for its crisp, clean taste)
- 1/2 oz Campari
- 1/2 oz. Lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 oz. Grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 oz Simple syrup
Instructions
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice to chill.
- Pour in the tequila, Campari, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds or until the shaker feels ice-cold.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a grapefruit twist, releasing its oils over the drink.
Pro Tips
- Freshly squeezed juices provide the best flavor profile. Freshness makes a major impact in drinks.
- Pre-chill your glass. A chilled glass will help your Siesta last longer.
- Experiment with different amounts of simple syrup to find the perfect sweet balance.
When to Serve
The Siesta is versatile, making it perfect for practically any event. It’s an excellent choice for a summer afternoon gathering, a peaceful sunset viewing, or a sophisticated cocktail party. Its refreshing properties make it popular in warm weather, but its complexity is enjoyed all year.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Choosing the right blanco tequila is essential for making the ideal Siesta cocktail. Choose Espolòn, Casamigos, or Patrón for their clean, agave-rich flavor, which pairs well with lime and grapefruit juice. Simple syrup offers sweetness, while Campari provides a refined bitterness, resulting in a perfect combination. These options provide a premium cocktail experience while emphasizing the Siesta’s refreshing and nuanced nature.
Similar Cocktails
- Paloma: A refreshing mix of tequila and grapefruit soda.
- Margarita: The classic combination of tequila, lime, and triple sec.
- Negroni: A bold blend of gin, vermouth, and Campari.
- Tequila Sunrise: A visually stunning gradient of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
- Hemingway Daiquiri: Also known as the Papa Doble, is a tart and refreshing cocktail that combines white rum, fresh lime and grapefruit juices, with a touch of maraschino liqueur for sweetness.
History
Katie Stipe created the Siesta, a relatively new drink, in New York. It’s a twist on the classic Hemingway Daiquiri, replacing rum with tequila and adding Campari to the mix. This tweak gives a Cuban classic a Mexican touch, demonstrating cocktails’ versatility and global appeal.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Tequila preferably blanco for its crisp, clean taste
- 1/2 oz Campari
- 1/2 oz Lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 oz Grapefruit juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 oz Simple syrup
Instructions
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice to chill.
- Pour in the tequila, Campari, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds or until the shaker feels ice-cold.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a grapefruit twist, releasing its oils over the drink.