Paloma
Mexico's beloved tequila highball mixing grapefruit soda, lime, and a pinch of salt for thirst-quenching tang.
11%
ABV
180
Calories
Highball
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Rim a highball glass with salt if desired and fill with ice
Add tequila and lime juice
Top with grapefruit soda and a pinch of salt, then gently stir
Garnish with a lime wedge or grapefruit slice
Glassware
Built over ice in a tall glass
Garnish
Fresh cut
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use a pinch of salt in the drink to amplify grapefruit flavors
Chill the soda so the ice doesn't melt too quickly
Fresh grapefruit juice topped with club soda creates a brighter version
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Paloma.
Mezcal Paloma
A smoky reinvention of Mexico's beloved Paloma, where mezcal's earthy complexity transforms the classic grapefruit highball into a sophisticated, layered cocktail.
Cantarito
A Jalisco roadside classic—blanco tequila with lime, orange, grapefruit and a splash of grapefruit soda over ice.
Other Variations
Fresh Paloma
Uses fresh grapefruit juice and club soda instead of bottled soda.
Changes
Spicy Paloma
Muddles jalapeño slices for gentle heat.
Changes
History & Heritage
“The Paloma likely emerged in mid‑20th‑century Mexico and is often attributed to Don Javier Delgado Corona of La Capilla in Tequila, Jalisco. While its exact origin is uncertain, the drink eclipsed the Margarita in popularity among locals thanks to its refreshing blend of tequila and grapefruit soda such as Squirt or Jarritos.”
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Cantarito
A Jalisco roadside classic—blanco tequila with lime, orange, grapefruit and a splash of grapefruit soda over ice.
Vampiro
A uniquely Mexican cocktail that offers a captivating blend of savory, sweet, tart, and spicy flavors, setting it apart from its more famous cousin, the Bloody Mary.
Mezcal Paloma
A smoky reinvention of Mexico's beloved Paloma, where mezcal's earthy complexity transforms the classic grapefruit highball into a sophisticated, layered cocktail.