The Paloma embodies the spirit of a stress-free summer cocktail, balancing sweet, sour and salty flavors with a tangy boozy kick – this iconic Mexican drink takes just a minute or two to mix together . The Spanish name “la paloma” translates to “the dove” (maybe making one will bring you some peace), but some believe the origin of this tequila cocktail name has something to do with the similar-sounding “yuzu,” the Spanish word for grape. Pomelo and grapefruit mean the flavor at the heart of the drink.
To serve the Paloma cocktail in its simplest form, the host might leave a bottle of tequila, some grapefruit soda (like Squirt or Jarritos), and lime wedges for guests to pour themselves. For a brighter grapefruit flavor, this paloma recipe swaps out the sparkling water for fresh juice and sparkling water, plus a sweetener of your choice, giving you as much control over each element as you want. In keeping with the simplicity of the classic version, you can still make the drink in the glass you intend to drink it from, meaning you don’t need a cocktail shaker, and making a big batch is as simple as scaling up each ingredient.
For an alcoholic base, tequila is more common, but few people say “no” to mezcal paloma. If your home bar needs restocking, consider purchasing white tequila at Pueblo Viejo and mezcal at Sombra or Vida. Use the leftovers to make another round or series of other tequilas, like margaritas or naps.