Paloma
Build ∙ 2 min ∙ 10.3% ABV ∙
The Paloma is Mexico's favorite tequila highball — tequila blanco, fresh lime, and grapefruit soda built long over ice in a Collins glass. Tart pink grapefruit and lime carry a clean agave backbone, finishing crisp and lightly fizzy — an easygoing daytime or warm-weather sipper.
Ingredients
1
Servings
Garnish
Instructions for 1 serving
- Pre-chill a glass
- Optionally, rim the glass with salt
- Pour the ingredients into the ice-filled glass: Tequila blanco 50 mlLime juice 10 mlGrapefruit soda 120 ml
- Stir gently
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge
Tips
- Build directly in the glass over ice — no shaking needed, which keeps the soda's carbonation lively.
- Squeeze the lime in first, then top with grapefruit soda and stir once gently to combine without flattening the fizz.
- A pinch of salt or a salted rim sharpens the grapefruit and cuts sweetness, a common Mexican touch.
- Use a fresh, lightly chilled grapefruit soda such as Squirt or Jarritos so the drink stays bright, not flat.
History
The Paloma is a tequila cocktail whose name is usually read as Spanish for "dove," though some suspect it derives from pomelo, the Spanish word for grapefruit. Its documented origin is thin: it is closely tied to Mexico, where it is commonly built with grapefruit sodas such as Squirt, Jarritos, or Fresca. A 2021 account in The Counter traced the drink's history alongside the rise of Squirt soda. A stripped-down "simple Paloma" uses only tequila and grapefruit soda, while a more elaborate cousin, the cantarito, adds lemon and orange juice to the lime. It is often compared to the grapefruit-and-vodka greyhound, which many consider the Paloma's closest relative.
FAQ
What is a Paloma made of?
A Paloma is made of tequila blanco, freshly squeezed lime juice, and grapefruit soda, built over ice in a Collins glass and garnished with a grapefruit wedge. Grapefruit sodas like Squirt or Jarritos are traditional in Mexico. A pinch of salt is a common optional addition.
Is a Paloma shaken or stirred?
A Paloma is built, not shaken. Pour the tequila and lime over ice, top with grapefruit soda, and give it one gentle stir. Shaking would knock the carbonation out of the soda, so a light build keeps it fizzy.
What glass is a Paloma served in?
A Paloma is served in a Collins glass over ice, garnished with a grapefruit wedge. The tall glass suits its long, soda-lengthened build; a highball glass works equally well if you don't have a Collins.
What is a dirty Paloma?
A dirty Paloma is a variation that swaps clear grapefruit soda for fresh grapefruit juice, or adds a splash of it, giving a cloudier, more intensely citrus drink. Some versions also use mezcal in place of tequila for a smoky edge.
Is a Paloma healthier than a Margarita?
A Paloma is often lighter than a Margarita because grapefruit soda dilutes the drink and there is no orange liqueur or added syrup. This version runs about 10.3% ABV. Sugar content still depends on the soda you choose.
