Paloma

The Paloma is a refreshing Mexican cocktail that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying. Tequila provides a smooth, earthy base, while fresh lime juice adds brightness. Grapefruit soda brings a crisp, citrusy sweetness with a subtle bitter edge, making the drink both thirst-quenching and full of flavor. A pinch of salt enhances the overall taste and balances the tartness, while the lime garnish adds a final burst of aroma. Served over ice in a tall glass, the Paloma is perfect for warm days, casual gatherings, or anytime you want a light yet flavorful cocktail.

Tasting Notes

The Paloma is crisp, citrusy, and refreshingly light. High-quality tequila provides a smooth, agave-forward base that pairs beautifully with the tangy brightness of fresh lime juice. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors, softening any bitterness from the grapefruit soda while highlighting its natural sweetness. The soda adds gentle bubbles that lift the drink, making it bright and thirst-quenching without feeling heavy. Garnished with a lime wheel or wedge, the Paloma has an inviting aroma and a clean, well-balanced taste. Each sip delivers a mix of sweet, tart, and lightly salty notes, perfect for casual sipping in any season.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare a Paloma, you’ll need minimal equipment. A jigger ensures accurate measurements for the tequila and lime juice. A citrus juicer is useful for extracting fresh lime juice, enhancing the drink’s brightness. A bar spoon works well for stirring the ingredients once they’re in the glass. The ideal serving vessel is a tall highball glass, allowing plenty of room for ice, grapefruit soda, and garnishes. Fresh ice cubes are essential to keeping the drink chilled from start to finish. For an extra touch, you can also rim the glass with salt before pouring, though it’s optional for the classic version.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila high-quality
• 1/2 oz lime juice fresh-squeezed
• salt pinch
• grapefruit soda to top it off
• lime wheel or wedge to garnish

Instructions

• Add ice to a highball glass
• Add the tequila, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
• Top off the mixture with grapefruit soda and stir.
• Use a lime wheel or wedge for a garnish.
• Serve, sip, and enjoy your fresh cocktail

When to Serve

The Paloma is a versatile cocktail that fits any occasion, from sunny afternoons to evening get-togethers. Its crisp, sparkling character makes it ideal for warm weather, poolside lounging, and outdoor barbecues. It’s equally at home as a refreshing pre-dinner drink or paired with spicy dishes, where its citrusy sweetness helps balance heat. Light, easy to prepare, and consistently well-received, the Paloma is a reliable choice for gatherings where you want to serve something fresh and approachable without spending time on complex preparation. Its bright flavor and bubbly texture keep it a favorite year-round.

Similar Cocktails

• Black Paloma
• Mango Paloma
• Apricot Paloma
• Blood Orange Paloma
• Kiwi Paloma