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Paloma
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.9 / 5
The Paloma, meaning “dove” in Spanish, is a classic Mexican cocktail that perfectly balances the bold flavors of tequila with the refreshing tang of grapefruit. Often attributed to Don Javier Delgado Corona, the legendary bartender from Jalisco, the Paloma is known for its simplicity and vibrant citrus profile. While the Margarita might be better known internationally, the Paloma is a favorite in Mexico, offering a delightful mix of tequila, lime, and grapefruit soda. With its light effervescence and refreshing zest, the Paloma is a go-to choice for any occasion.
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Microbadges

Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Tequila
Calories
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106 calories
Garnish
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Slice of grapefruit or a lime wedge
Alcohol content
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14.5% | 2 units *
Details
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Classic
Stirred

Tags

Tequila ingredient icon
Tequila cocktails
Tequila ingredient icon
Top ten Tequila cocktails
Soda water ingredient icon
Top ten Soda water cocktails
Grapefruit Juice ingredient icon
Top ten Grapefruit Juice cocktails
Salt ingredient icon
Top ten Salt cocktails

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Tequila cocktail ingredient icon for the Paloma cocktail
Tequila
Grapefruit Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the Paloma cocktail
Grapefruit Juice
Lime juice cocktail ingredient icon for the Paloma cocktail
Lime juice
Salt cocktail ingredient icon for the Paloma cocktail
Salt
Soda water cocktail ingredient icon for the Paloma cocktail
Soda water (If you can, use grapefruit soda water)
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

A brilliant example of balance and simplicity in cocktail form. Its foundation of tequila, the heart of Mexico, shines through with just the right amount of punch, while the grapefruit soda provides a refreshing, zesty counterpoint that keeps the drink light and incredibly drinkable. The subtle tang of lime adds brightness, and the gentle effervescence elevates the whole experience, making each sip feel crisp and invigorating. It's a cocktail that doesn't overpower the senses but instead invites them to explore the nuanced interplay of sweet, sour, and bitter. The Paloma is truly a drink for all occasions—refreshing enough for a summer afternoon yet sophisticated enough to stand among the great classics.

Method
How to make a Paloma

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Start by preparing a glass (ideally a highball glass) by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into a small plate of salt to coat the edge
Fill the glass with ice cubes
Pour in the tequila, followed by the grapefruit juice and lime juice
Add a pinch of salt to the mixture
Gently top off the drink with soda water, preferably grapefruit soda water for an extra citrusy kick
Stir the drink gently to mix all the ingredients
Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or a lime wedge, and enjoy your refreshing Paloma!
~ If this mixture tastes too salty add sugar syrup to balance the flavour. ~

Power tips
Elevate the Paloma with these master mixologist tips

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Smoked Salt Rim: Elevate the traditional salt rim by using smoked salt. The smoky flavor adds a subtle depth that beautifully complements the earthy notes of the tequila while contrasting with the bright grapefruit and lime. For an even more elevated experience, try a mix of smoked salt and Tajín for a slight chili kick.
Fresh Grapefruit Peel Zest: Before juicing your grapefruit, zest a bit of the peel directly into the glass. The essential oils released from the fresh peel will intensify the aroma and give the Paloma a more complex citrus profile, adding a dimension that bottled grapefruit juice can't achieve.
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Paloma masterclass

Master the craft of the Paloma cocktail with one of our cocktail deep dive masterclasses

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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Highball  ·  Rim  ·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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Comments

Paul Lockman avatar
Paul Lockman

I didn't have grapefruit juice, so I used orange instead, and it came out surprisingly refreshing! The tequila really shines through with a nice citrusy twist. Perhaps it isn't quite as tangy as the original, but it was still a delicious sipper! Must try if you like experimenting. 🍹

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Paloma cocktail?

The Paloma is a popular Mexican cocktail with somewhat unclear origins. Some believe it was created by Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner of La Capilla bar in Tequila, Mexico. However, its true origins remain somewhat of a mystery, with no definitive creation story. What's known is that the drink has been widely enjoyed in Mexico for decades and has gained international popularity for its refreshing taste.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I use a different type of citrus instead of lemon juice in a Paloma?

Yes, while traditional Paloma recipes call for grapefruit juice, lemon juice is already a variation. Typically, you can also use lime juice as an alternative to lemon juice, which brings a tart and bright flavor closer to the classic Paloma taste profile. Experimenting with different citrus juices can add a unique twist to the cocktail.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the ideal way to serve a Paloma?

A Paloma is best served in a highball glass, filled with ice. For an authentic touch, rim the glass with salt before adding the ingredients. Pour the tequila, lemon or grapefruit juice, and top off with soda water. Gently stir to combine. This method ensures a cold, refreshing drink ideal for warm weather.

Garnishing tips icon

What garnishes work well with a Paloma?

For a Paloma, garnishes that complement its citrus profile are ideal. A slice or wedge of grapefruit, a lime wheel, or even a sprig of fresh mint can add both visual appeal and aromatic depth to the cocktail. These garnishes enhance the drink's refreshing qualities and add a pop of color.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content in a Paloma compare to other cocktails?

The alcohol content in a Paloma depends largely on the ratio of tequila to the other non-alcoholic ingredients like grapefruit juice and soda water. Generally, a Paloma is considered to have a moderate alcohol content compared to other cocktails. For instance, it's typically lower in alcohol than a straight-up Margarita but higher than a light spritz. However, the Paloma's strength can be adjusted based on personal preference.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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