Paloma
Build ∙ 2 min ∙ 9.3% ABV ∙
The Paloma is a Mexican tequila highball of tequila blanco, fresh lime juice and grapefruit soda, served over ice in a Collins glass.
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
- A pinch of salt, or the optional salted rim, sharpens the grapefruit and cuts the sweetness; it's a common touch in Mexico.
- Open a fresh, cold grapefruit soda such as Squirt or Jarritos; a half-flat bottle makes a dull drink.
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. The drink is closely tied to Mexico, where it is commonly made with grapefruit sodas such as Squirt, Jarritos, or Fresca. A 2021 account in The Counter tied the drink's history to 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?
Tequila blanco, freshly squeezed lime juice and grapefruit soda. A salted rim is optional.
Is a Paloma shaken or stirred?
Neither: it is built in the glass. Pour the tequila and lime over ice, top with grapefruit soda and give it one gentle stir. Shaking would knock the fizz out of the soda.
What glass is a Paloma served in?
A Collins glass over ice, garnished with a grapefruit wedge. A highball glass works just as well if you don't have a Collins.
