The Paloma Cocktail
Little is known about the historical origin of the Paloma, but shockingly, it has surpassed the Margarita as the most popular tequila-based cocktail in Mexico.
Some believe that it is named after La Paloma, which translates to The Dove, a popular folk song composed in the early 1860s. Diffords Guide claims it was created by the Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner and bartender of La Capilla, in Tequila, Mexico.
We can’t confirm or deny either theory, but this classic is here to stay as it’s a favourite in bars all over the world.
Paloma Cocktail Ingredient Tips
- A quality tequila that isn’t a mixto. Olmeca Altos, Espolon, El Jimador are all quality choices that won’t break the bank.
- Limes, simple syrup, soda water, and fresh grapefruit juice.
- Or if you prefer, instead of using grapefruit juice, simple syrup and soda water, you can use a grapefruit soda such as Jarritos to accomplish a similar taste.
Bartender Tips
- It’s up to you whether you prefer this cocktail made with fresh grapefruit juice or grapefruit soda, and both versions have merit. Would it surprise you if we preferred fresh?
- This cocktail has a beautiful hue that can be complemented with a tajin salt rim, or even a black salt rim if you’re looking for a harsher contrast.
- As always, make sure the lime juice is fresh, even if you’re only using a half-ounce of it.
Paloma Cocktail Variations
The Paloma already is a variation, but that doesn’t stop the spin off from spinning further away from the classic Rickey that this cocktail originally stems from.
The Siesta is a modern classic that’s basically a deconstructed paloma, still featuring tequila, grapefruit, lime, and simple syrup, but instead of using soda water to make the cocktail sparkle, it’s shaken and served in a cocktail glass with a splash of Campari, resulting in a slightly more bitter twist.
But don’t stop variating there, if Campari is too bitter for you, try an Aperol Siesta. And who says it has to be tequila? Vodka is just as close a friend to grapefruit as it’s Mexican-counterpart.
