The Paloma is one of the easiest tequila cocktails to make well. Its combination of earthy agave, tart lime, a touch of salt and sparkling grapefruit creates a drink that is bright, refreshing and less sweet than many restaurant-style margaritas.
This guide covers the classic recipe, how to choose between blanco and reposado tequila, and several simple variations you can make at home.
Quick Paloma recipe
Ingredients
- 1 2/3 oz 100% agave tequila
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- 3 1/3 oz pink grapefruit soda
- Ice
- Lime wheel or grapefruit wedge
Method
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the tequila, fresh lime juice and a small pinch of salt.
- Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with lime or grapefruit.
These proportions closely follow the International Bartenders Association formula. Adjust the soda slightly to suit the size of your glass and the sweetness of the brand you use.
Blanco or reposado tequila?
Blanco tequila keeps the cocktail crisp and agave-forward. It is the best starting point when you want citrus, pepper and vegetal notes to remain prominent.
Reposado tequila adds a softer texture and light barrel flavors such as vanilla, caramel and oak. It creates a rounder Paloma that works especially well with fresh grapefruit juice.
Whichever style you choose, look for a bottle labeled 100% agave. Explore our tequila collection for blanco, reposado and other agave spirits.
Grapefruit soda versus fresh juice
Traditional, easy-service Palomas are commonly built with grapefruit soda. It provides sweetness, acidity and carbonation in one ingredient.
For a fresher version, combine 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice, 1/2 oz lime juice and 1/2 oz agave syrup with 2 oz tequila. Shake briefly with ice, strain over fresh ice and top with club soda. Taste before adding more syrup because grapefruit varies greatly in sweetness.
Easy Paloma variations
Spicy Paloma
Add one or two thin jalapeño slices to the glass, or use a chili-salt rim. Start cautiously—the heat becomes stronger as the drink sits.
Mezcal Paloma
Replace half the tequila with mezcal for a smoky, earthy edge without overwhelming the grapefruit.
Low-sugar Paloma
Use fresh grapefruit juice, club soda and a small amount of agave nectar instead of commercial grapefruit soda.
Party pitcher
Multiply the tequila, lime and salt by the number of servings and chill the mixture. Add grapefruit soda immediately before serving so the pitcher stays lively.
Common mistakes
- Using too much lime: grapefruit is already tart, so begin with a small amount.
- Over-salting: a pinch in the drink or a partial salt rim is enough.
- Stirring aggressively: gentle stirring preserves carbonation.
- Using warm ingredients: chill the soda and glass whenever possible.
Final verdict
Choose blanco tequila for the brightest classic Paloma and reposado when you want a richer, softer drink. The soda-based recipe is ideal for speed; the fresh-juice version gives you more control over sweetness and acidity.
Please enjoy responsibly. Availability and shipping eligibility vary by destination.
