The Paloma is a summertime tequila favorite made with tequila, lime juice, and most importantly, grapefruit soda. I’ve experimented with several variations of the Paloma, and this is by far the most balanced while nailing the signature Paloma flavor!
Brief History
The Paloma is believed to have originated in Mexico, though its exact origins are unclear. It is widely attributed to bartender Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner of the bar La Capilla in Tequila, Mexico. The cocktail features tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda. Squirt and Jarritos are among the most popular choices in Mexico.
The Paloma is a built cocktail, assembled right in the serving glass so no bar tools are required. Numerous variations of this cocktail have emerged over the years, most using a combination of fresh grapefruit juice and club soda instead of grapefruit soda. In my opinion, the best overall flavor is with grapefruit soda.
The Palmoa is garnished with a grapefruit wedge but the juice isn’t used in the cocktail. I like to save leftover juice for a Hemingway Daiquiri, Bohemian, or Brown Derby.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Grapefruit soda: grapefruit soda is the key to a delicious Paloma. Jarritos or Squirt are the preferred sodas of choice but Fever Tree makes a great sparkling pink grapefruit soda as an alternative. Avoid grapefruit-flavored seltzer as the grapefruit flavor is too subtle.
- Tequila: blanco tequila will make for the brightest-tasting cocktail. Aged tequila will tend to overpower the delicate grapefruit flavor.
- lime juice: always use fresh limes for the best citrus pop.
- Simple syrup: 1:1 simple syrup is made with equal parts sugar and water. It’s easy to make homemade simple syrup in a few minutes.
- Salt: I like to use margarita salt or flakey sea salt!
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities below.
Expert Tips
- Salt is also important in this recipe. I like adding a pinch to the glass to bring out all of the flavors.
- Grapefruit soda adds a more intense grapefruit flavor and fizz while omitting some bitterness. Depending on the grapefruit soda you use, the drink may benefit from a teaspoon of simple syrup to add a bit more roundness.
- Serve this cocktail over plenty of ice in a highball glass. This is the classic glassware for several fizzy cocktails such as the Americano and Dark ‘n Stormy.
Similar Cocktails
Enjoy this recipe? If you made this cocktail, please leave a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ star rating in the recipe card below & a review in the comments!
Paloma
Ingredients
- 4 ounces grapefruit soda pref Jarritos
- 2 ounces blanco tequila
- 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon simple syrup optional
- Pinch of coarse sea salt
- Grapefruit wedge garnish
Instructions
- Add salt, tequila, lime juice, and optional simple syrup to a highball glass. Stir to mix.
- Add ice and top with grapefruit soda. Stir to mix and garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Notes
Nutrition
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