Guava Coconut Paloma

The Guava Coconut Paloma blends tropical fruit, citrus, and spice into a refreshing, modern riff on the classic Paloma. Guava cordial and Ancho Reyes bring depth, while sparkling coconut water adds a light, crisp finish. It’s perfect for warm evenings, beachside lounging, or backyard gatherings. Inspired by Yael Vengroff.

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Tasting Notes

The Guava Coconut Paloma offers a smooth balance of tart citrus, tropical sweetness, and subtle spice. The tequila lays down a clean, agave-forward base, while grapefruit and lime juices add bright, mouthwatering acidity. Guava cordial contributes a soft, rounded fruit note without overpowering the drink. Ancho Reyes adds depth and a gentle warmth, while sparkling coconut water lightens the finish with a hint of tropical softness. Each sip has dimension: fruity and crisp up front, with a lingering herbal and peppery finish. It’s flavorful without being heavy and refreshing without losing its complexity.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing and chilling the base ingredients. A jigger ensures your proportions stay consistent, especially with the balance between sweet, sour, and heat. A fine mesh strainer or Hawthorne strainer helps pour the drink cleanly over fresh ice. Use a rocks glass or short tumbler that holds both ice and garnish comfortably. A bar spoon is useful for adjusting the pour after adding sparkling water to prevent overflow. If possible, chill the glass ahead of time to keep the drink cold longer and preserve the bubbles from the sparkling coconut water.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz blanco tequila
• 0.75 oz grapefruit juice
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 0.75 oz guava cordial
• 0.5 oz Ancho Reyes
• 1 oz sparkling coconut water
• Grapefruit slice, for garnish

Instructions

• In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, guava cordial, and Ancho Reyes.
• Shake until thoroughly chilled.
• Add sparkling coconut water to the shaker and swirl gently.
• Strain into a collins glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed citrus for brighter flavor and balance.
• Add sparkling coconut water after shaking to preserve the bubbles.
• Adjust guava cordial to taste if your cordial is very sweet.
• A pinch of sea salt on the garnish can sharpen flavors.
• Use a large ice cube or clear ice for slower dilution.
• Try chilling the coconut water ahead of time to prevent melting.
• For extra aroma, express a grapefruit peel over the glass before serving.

When to Serve

The Guava Coconut Paloma is ideal for warm afternoons, weekend brunches, or sunset cocktails with friends. Its balance of fruit, spice, and fizz makes it a strong option for backyard gatherings, tropical-themed events, or modern Mexican menus. The low sweetness and bright citrus make it refreshing without being too casual, and the subtle chili warmth gives it character without becoming too bold. Serve it when you want something light but layered perfect for relaxed occasions where flavor and appearance both matter.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Blanco Tequila:

• Espolòn Blanco
• Tequila Ocho Plata
• Olmeca Altos Plata

Ancho Reyes:

• Ancho Reyes Original

Guava Cordial:

• Liber & Co. Tropical Passionfruit + Guava
• Monin Guava Syrup
• Make your own with guava nectar and a touch of citrus juice

Sparkling Coconut Water:

• Harmless Harvest Sparkling
• C2O Coconut Water with Sparkling
• Vita Coco Sparkling

Similar Cocktails

• Guava Paloma
• LALO Southern Batanga
• Tequila Limeade
• Rhubarb Margarita
• Watermelon Grapefruit Margarita