Classic Paloma Cocktail with Tequila, Grapefruit & Lime
A classic Paloma made with tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and lime, topped with sparkling water for a crisp, refreshing finish. Bright, slightly bitter, and perfectly balanced, it’s one of the easiest highballs to get right.
The Paloma is one of the most refreshing tequila cocktails you can make—bright grapefruit, sharp lime, and a clean effervescence that keeps it light from start to finish. This version uses fresh juice for a more vibrant, balanced profile while staying true to the drink’s simple, highball style.
Background
The Paloma is widely considered Mexico’s most popular cocktail, often preferred over the Margarita for its ease and refreshment. Originating in the mid-20th century, it became a staple thanks to its simple build—tequila, grapefruit, and soda—delivering bold flavor with minimal effort.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Tequila Blanco – the crisp agave base that defines the drink
- Grapefruit Juice – the main flavor, bringing bitterness and natural sweetness
- Lime Juice – adds sharp acidity to tighten the balance
- Simple Syrup – optional sweetness to round out tart grapefruit
- Sparkling Water – adds lift and keeps the drink light
- Salt – enhances citrus and balances bitterness
Substitution Tips:
- No fresh grapefruit juice? Use grapefruit soda and skip simple syrup
- Swap simple syrup for agave nectar for a more natural sweetness
- Try mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky variation
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
Why This Version Works
Grapefruit Forward, Not Washed Out
Using a full measure of grapefruit juice keeps the drink anchored, even after topping with soda. You get a clear citrus profile instead of a diluted highball.
The lime sharpens the edges, while optional sweetness lets you fine-tune depending on how tart your grapefruit is.
Substitutions & Variations
- Classic Shortcut: Use grapefruit soda instead of juice + syrup
- Spicy Paloma: Add a slice of jalapeño or a pinch of chili salt
- Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme as garnish
- Low-Sugar Version: Skip simple syrup entirely
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh citrus for a cleaner, brighter drink
- Salt the rim lightly—too much will overpower the balance
- Stir gently after adding soda to keep carbonation lively
- Use plenty of ice to maintain dilution and chill
- Adjust sweetness depending on your grapefruit’s natural bitterness
Paloma Recipe
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Type of Glass
Highball Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/4 oz. (optional)
- top
- rim Salt
Directions
- If desired, rim a highball glass with Salt and fill with ice.
- Add Tequila Blanco, Grapefruit Juice, Lime Juice, and Simple Syrup.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Top with Sparkling Water and give a light stir to integrate.
- Garnish with a grapefruit slice or lime wedge, then serve.
Simple, bright, and endlessly drinkable, the Paloma is a highball that proves less really is more.
