There’s something about the Siesta cocktail that just hits the spot—bright, citrusy, and with just the right touch of bitterness. It’s one of those drinks that feels like sunshine in a glass. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, especially on warm evenings when I want something refreshing that still has a bit of complexity. If you’ve never tried one before, this is the perfect place to start.
Siesta
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Chilled coupe or highball glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) tequila (blanco or reposado)
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– ¼ oz (7.5 ml) fresh lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) Campari
Substitutions:
– Use mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky kick
– Swap simple syrup with agave nectar or honey for a natural sweetener
– Try Aperol in place of Campari for a gentler, sweeter version
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your coupe or highball glass into the freezer while you mix the drink. A cold glass keeps everything crisp and refreshing.
- Fill a shaker with ice. Then add the tequila, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and lime juice.
- Shake it like you mean it. About 15 seconds should do the trick—listen for the sound to change slightly; that’s how you know it’s chilled enough.
- Strain into your chilled glass. This keeps the cocktail smooth and clean.
- Float the Campari on top. Gently pour it over the back of a spoon to create a beautiful, layered look. It’s a small touch that makes the drink look like it came from a fancy bar.
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh juice matters. Bottled citrus just won’t give you the same bright flavor. Squeeze it fresh—you’ll taste the difference.
– Tweak to taste. Like it more tart? Add a bit more lime. Want it a little sweeter? Up the syrup slightly.
– Watch your pour. Too much Campari can overpower the drink. Stick to the ½ oz for balance.
Make-Ahead Notes
Mix the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick shake with ice before serving, then float the Campari fresh.
Storage
Since it’s citrus-based, the Siesta is best enjoyed fresh. But if you batch the base (without ice or Campari), it’ll keep in the fridge for a day. Don’t store once it’s been shaken—melted ice will water it down.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines on its own, but it’s even better with the right food. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-cocktail pairings too—grilled shrimp tacos with a squeeze of lime. It’s a match made in summer heaven.
Perfect Pairings
– Seafood: Think grilled fish, shrimp skewers, or ceviche. The citrusy notes in the cocktail balance out the richness beautifully.
– Spicy dishes: Try it with spicy Thai noodles or tacos with a little heat. The Siesta cools things off in the best way.
– Fresh salads: Especially those with citrus dressings or avocado—it’s light, crisp, and refreshing.
Why It Works
The Siesta is like a cousin to the Margarita, but with a few twists that make it stand out. The grapefruit adds a tart, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness, while the Campari adds depth and color. The result? A cocktail that’s layered, refreshing, and just a bit unexpected.
Variations to Try
Sunset Siesta
– Add a splash of cranberry juice for a rosy hue and a hint of tartness.
Spicy Siesta
– Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding other ingredients. It gives a gentle heat that lingers after each sip.
Winter Siesta
– Swap grapefruit juice for blood orange juice. It’s richer, a little sweeter, and perfect for cooler months.
Virgin Siesta
– Replace tequila with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic tequila alternative. Skip the Campari, or use a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif. Still refreshing, still delicious.
FAQs
Can I make a Siesta without grapefruit juice?
Yes, try blood orange or even a splash of orange juice. The flavor will shift, but it’ll still be tasty.
How can I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the simple syrup or use a lighter sweetener like agave.
Best time to enjoy a Siesta?
It’s perfect in the afternoon or early evening—especially when the sun’s out. But honestly, it’s good anytime you want something fresh and uplifting.
Can I make this for a group?
Absolutely. Multiply the base ingredients by the number of servings and mix in a pitcher. Add ice and Campari to individual glasses when serving for the best presentation.
Does the tequila matter?
Yes! A good-quality blanco or reposado makes a big difference. Avoid anything too harsh—it’ll throw off the balance.
Is there a non-alcoholic version that still feels like a cocktail?
Yes—use non-alcoholic tequila and a bitter aperitif alternative, or skip both and go for sparkling water with citrus juice and a splash of pomegranate for color.
Whether it’s your first Siesta or your fiftieth, this is a cocktail that always feels special. It’s bright, bold, and just the right mix of sweet and bitter. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to for sunny afternoons or relaxed evenings—just like it did for me.
