Video about Paloma on my YouTube channel.
If the Margarita stands as the most popular tequila-based cocktail in the world, the Paloma (meaning “dove” in Spanish) takes the crown as Mexico’s absolute favorite and even holds the title of the national cocktail.
The exact origins of the Paloma remain unclear, but we know it was already popular by the 1950s. Some credit its creation to the legendary Don Javier Delgado Corona, the former owner and bartender of La Capilla in Tequila, Mexico. However, no documentary evidence supports this claim.
Others believe the drink emerged spontaneously when Squirt grapefruit soda was introduced to Mexico in the 1950s.
Even the name’s origin is uncertain—some say it comes from the folk song La Paloma, which dates back to the 19th century, while others suggest it was inspired by the Spanish word pomelo, meaning grapefruit.
The simplest and most common version of the Paloma is refreshingly minimalistic: tequila and grapefruit soda poured over ice and stirred. A pinch of salt is optional.
The International Bartenders Association (IBA) offers a slightly more complex variant, calling for:
-1 2/3 oz / 50 ml Tequila
-1/6 oz / 5 ml Fresh Lime Juice
-3 1/3 oz / 100 ml Pink Grapefruit Soda
-A pinch of salt
Traditionally, Palomas are made with Tequila Blanco, though a lightly aged Reposado can add interesting depth. However, well-aged Añejo tequila isn’t recommended, as its strong oak notes can interfere with the cocktail’s crisp and refreshing profile.
For the salt, you can rim the glass, add a pinch directly to the drink, or skip it altogether if you prefer a cleaner taste.
Over time, more complex variations of the Paloma have emerged, substituting part of the grapefruit soda with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. This version requires a little more effort but results in a much richer flavor.
I tried one of these variants, and it proved to be a delightful and refreshing summer beverage.
Ingredients:
-1 2/3 oz / 50 ml Tequila Blanco
-5/6 oz / 25 ml Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice
-5/12 oz / 12.5 ml Fresh Lime Juice
-1/4 oz / 7.5 ml Agave Syrup
-Pinch of Salt
-Grapefruit Soda to the top.
If you prefer a stronger drink, use less soda; for a lighter one, add more.
Process:
Add the first five ingredients into an ice-filled glass and stir. Top with soda.
Garnish with grapefruit or lime wedge.
Drinkware:
Collins glass
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