May 22nd is Paloma Day

02 April 2025

If you’ve ever sipped this vibrant, grapefruit-forward cocktail on a sunny terrace, you’ll know exactly why it deserves its own celebration. Bright, refreshing and effortlessly cool, the Paloma is Mexico’s understated classic — and perhaps the most versatile tequila cocktail behind the bar.

A Taste of Jalisco

While the Margarita may be more famous internationally, the Paloma is the drink you’ll find locals sipping in Mexico. Its exact origins are unclear, but many credit Don Javier Delgado Corona, bartender and owner of La Capilla in Tequila, Jalisco, for making it a staple.

Traditionally, it’s a simple mix of tequila, grapefruit soda, lime, and a pinch of salt — served long over ice. But simplicity doesn’t mean ordinary. The Paloma is laid-back, yes, but it’s also incredibly balanced — bitter, sweet, tart and fizzy all at once. And with the right tequila? It becomes something exceptional.

 

Choose the Right Tequila

To make a Paloma that sings, quality matters — here are distinctive tequilas that elevate the serve:

Olmeca Altos

Crafted from 100% blue agave grown at altitude in Los Altos, Jalisco, Altos is smooth, herbal and fresh — purpose-built for cocktail creativity. Altos Plata is your go-to for a classic Paloma, while Altos Reposado adds a subtle oak depth for a more complex variation.

Avión Tequila

For something premium, Avión Silver delivers refined flavour, with notes of grapefruit, agave and vanilla. Smooth, crisp, and elegant — it turns any Paloma into a luxury experience.

The Classic Paloma

Effortless, sparkling, and crowd-pleasing.

  • 50 ml Altos Plata

  • 10 ml fresh lime juice

  • Top with grapefruit soda (like Ting or Jarritos)

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • Garnish: lime wedge or grapefruit slice

Build over ice in a highball glass. Stir gently.

The Fresh Press Paloma

Juicy and zesty, with real citrus expression.

  • 50 ml Avión Silver

  • 40 ml fresh pink grapefruit juice

  • 10 ml lime juice

  • 10 ml agave syrup

  • Top with soda water

  • Garnish: grapefruit zest

Shake all but soda, strain into a salt-rimmed highball, and top with soda.

Paloma Picante

For when your guests want something with a little bite.

  • 50 ml Altos Reposado

  • 40 ml grapefruit juice

  • 10 ml lime juice

  • 10 ml jalapeño or chilli syrup

  • Top with grapefruit tonic or soda

  • Garnish: Tajín rim & fresh chilli slice

Shake, strain, and build over ice. Let the spice do the talking.

Please enjoy our brands responsibly. Do not share this website with anyone under legal drinking age.

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