The Paloma: Mexico's Favourite Cocktail (And How to Make One)
The paloma is a tequila and grapefruit cocktail that even outsells the margarita across Mexico. And once you’ve made and tasted one, that stops being a surprise. The taste is memorable because it is sharp, bittersweet and, above all else, refreshing. It is also easy to make and can be ready in under five minutes, with no cocktail shaker required.
Below, we take a look at what goes into it, how to make it, which tequila to reach for, and a few paloma cocktail variations worth trying.
What is a paloma cocktail?
A paloma cocktail is a Mexican paloma made with tequila and grapefruit. The name means “dove” in Spanish and is most likely linked to the folk song La Paloma, which played in the cantinas where the drink first became popular.
Its exact origin is debated, but most accounts place it in 1950s Jalisco, the same region known for tequila production.
It is widely considered the most popular tequila-based drink in Mexico. While the margarita may be more well known internationally, the paloma Mexican drink is lighter, more refreshing, and easier to enjoy over time.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the best tequila for a paloma
Best tequila for a paloma
The type of tequila you choose will shape the overall flavour of your paloma, so it is worth getting right.
Blanco tequila is most commonly used in the best paloma recipe because it is clean and allows the citrus flavours to stand out.
Reposado can also be used, adding a slightly warmer and more rounded flavour.
Añejo is less suitable, as the heavier oak notes can overpower the freshness of the drink.
If you are unsure where to start, blanco is the safest option and gives you the most balanced result.
How to make a paloma cocktail
Paloma ingredients
The paloma cocktail ingredients are simple but each one plays an important role in creating balance.
- 50ml blanco tequila
- 100ml pink grapefruit soda, or 75ml fresh grapefruit juice topped with 50ml sparkling water
- 15ml fresh lime juice
- 10ml agave syrup or simple syrup
- A pinch of salt
- Ice
- Grapefruit wedge for garnish
Method
- Rub a grapefruit wedge around the rim of a highball glass, then dip it into salt.
- Add the tequila, grapefruit element, lime juice and syrup
- If you are using fresh juice, top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
This is an easy paloma recipe that delivers a well-balanced drink without overcomplicating the process.
Paloma variations worth trying
Pink paloma
A pink paloma cocktail can be made by adding a small amount, around 5 - 10ml, of grenadine or hibiscus syrup. This creates a slightly sweeter drink with a deeper colour.
Spicy paloma
Drop three or four slices of fresh jalapeño into your tequila and leave it to steep for 10 to 15 minutes, the heat infuses quickly. Alternatively, mix a pinch of chilli flakes into the rim salt. Either way, it works well. Heat and sour grapefruit pair better than you might expect.
Mezcal paloma
Replace the tequila with mezcal which is a young, unaged style such as joven or espadín. Smoke and grapefruit is a genuinely surprising pairing. Add a touch more agave syrup than in the classic version to balance the earthiness.
Frozen paloma
Blend tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup, and a generous scoop of ice until smooth. Serve in a chilled glass with a salted rim. It drinks like a slushy with considerably more character. Very easy to make too many of.
Gin twist on a paloma-style serve
If you enjoy the structure of a paloma but prefer gin, this is an easy swap. Simply swap the tequila for a citrus-forward gin, something with grapefruit, pink pepper, or floral botanicals rather than a full-on London Dry. Use pink grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a splash of elderflower cordial in place of agave syrup.
It is lighter than the classic, surprisingly elegant, and a natural next step for anyone who enjoys gin but wants to move beyond a standard G&T.
Frequently asked questions
What is a paloma drink made of?
Tequila, grapefruit (fresh juice or grapefruit soda), lime juice, agave or simple syrup, and a salt rim. Served over ice in a highball glass with a grapefruit wedge garnish.
Is the paloma Spanish or Mexican?
The paloma is a Mexican cocktail. "Paloma" is the Spanish word for dove, but the drink originated in Mexico and it remains far more popular there than anywhere else in the world.
What is a dirty paloma?
A dirty paloma replaces some or all of the tequila with mezcal, giving the drink a smoky edge. Some bartenders also use the term for versions with grapefruit or citrus bitters added for extra complexity.
Can I make palomas ahead of time?
Yes. Mix the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and syrup in a jug and keep it chilled. Add the fizzy element per glass just before serving so it stays properly carbonated.
What are tips for the perfect paloma?
Use fresh grapefruit when you can. Soda is convenient and gives consistent results, but a paloma made with freshly squeezed pink grapefruit tastes noticeably better. The bitterness and depth from fresh fruit is a big part of what makes the drink worth making.
Don't skip the salt rim. This isn't decorative, in fact, the salt makes the grapefruit flavour come through more brightly. Maldon or another flaky sea salt is better than fine table salt, which dissolves too quickly and can make the drink taste overly salty.
Let the ice do its job. If your first sip tastes too strong, give it two minutes before adjusting anything. The ice dilutes as it melts and often fixes the balance without you needing to add anything.
Taste and adjust. Grapefruits vary considerably, some are bitter, some are sweet. Make the drink, taste it, and add a little more syrup or lime until it feels right.