The Story of the Paloma Cocktail
Travel Distilled tells the story of the Paloma, the classic Mexican tequila cocktail, with its origins and recipes, including one spicy Paloma made with mezcal.
The Paloma is one of Mexico’s most beloved cocktails, often overshadowed internationally by its more famous cousin, the Margarita. Yet, in its homeland, the Paloma reigns supreme—a refreshing, effervescent blend of tequila, grapefruit, and soda that perfectly complements Mexico’s warm climate and vibrant food flavors.
The History of the Paloma
The origins of the Paloma (Spanish for “dove”) are somewhat murky, but it is widely believed to have emerged in Mexico in the mid-20th century. Unlike many classic cocktails with well-documented histories, the Paloma’s creation is more folklore than fact.
Possible Origins
1. The Tequila Boom (1940s-1950s) – As tequila gained popularity in Mexico, bartenders experimented with mixing it with local ingredients. Grapefruit soda (like Squirt or Fresca) was a natural pairing, given its widespread availability.
2. Don Javier Delgado Corona’s Claim – Some credit the invention of the Paloma to Don Javier Delgado Corona, a bartender at La Capilla in Tequila, Jalisco. His version reportedly used freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and soda.
3. The Squirt Connection – Another theory suggests that the Paloma was popularized by Squirt, a grapefruit-flavored soda introduced in the 1950s. The soda’s crisp, slightly bitter taste made it an ideal mixer for tequila.
Regardless of its exact origin, the Paloma became a staple in Mexican bars and homes, celebrated for its simplicity and refreshing taste.
Key Ingredients of a Classic Paloma
The traditional Paloma is made with just a few ingredients:
1. Tequila – Blanco (silver) tequila is preferred for its clean, crisp flavor, though reposado can add a subtle oakiness.
2. Grapefruit Soda – Squirt, Fresca, or Jarritos Toronja are common choices. Alternatively, fresh grapefruit juice and club soda can be used.
3. Lime Juice – A squeeze of fresh lime balances the sweetness.
4. Salt Rim – A salted rim enhances the drink’s flavors, much like in a Margarita.
5. Ice – Served over ice for maximum refreshment.
Paloma Recipes
Here are three delicious versions of the Paloma, ranging from the classic to modern twists.
1. The Classic Paloma
The original: simple and refreshing.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) blanco tequila
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup (optional, if using unsweetened grapefruit juice)
– 3 oz (90 ml) grapefruit soda (Squirt, Fresca, or Jarritos)
– Salt rim (optional)
– Grapefruit wedge or lime wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt (optional).
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using).
4. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or lime wheel.
2. The Fresh Grapefruit Paloma
A less sweet, more natural version.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) reposado tequila
– 2 oz (60 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) agave syrup (or simple syrup)
– 2 oz (60 ml) club soda
– Salt rim (optional)
– Grapefruit twist for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a glass with salt (optional).
2. In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into an ice-filled glass.
4. Top with club soda and stir lightly.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
3. The Spicy Paloma
A modern twist with heat and herbal notes.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) mezcal (for a smoky twist) or tequila
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh grapefruit juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) honey syrup (or agave)
– 2 oz (60 ml) grapefruit soda or club soda
– 2 slices of jalapeño (muddled)
– Tajín rim (chili-lime salt)
– Lime wheel and jalapeño slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim the glass with Tajín.
2. In a shaker, muddle jalapeño slices with lime juice.
3. Add tequila (or mezcal), grapefruit juice, and honey syrup. Shake with ice.
4. Strain into an ice-filled glass and top with soda.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and jalapeño slice.
Why the Paloma Deserves More Love
While the Margarita often steals the spotlight, the Paloma offers a lighter, more balanced alternative. Its bittersweet grapefruit profile pairs beautifully with tequila, making it an ideal cocktail for brunch, beachside sipping, or happy hour.
Fun Variations to Try:
– Beer Paloma – Top with a splash of Mexican lager for extra effervescence.
– Cucumber Paloma – Muddle cucumber for a fresh, crisp twist.
– Rosemary Paloma – Infuse the tequila with rosemary for an herbal note.
Final Thoughts
The Paloma is a testament to Mexico’s cocktail ingenuity—simple, refreshing, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you stick to the classic grapefruit soda version or experiment with fresh juices and spices, this drink is sure to become a favorite. So next time you crave a tequila cocktail, skip the Margarita and let the Paloma take flight. ¡Salud! 🍹
Recent Posts
