Paloma
The Paloma is a wonderful introduction to tequila-based libations and aptly named (the ‘dove’ in Spanish) for it’s light and refreshing taste. Often compared to the Margarita, the use of soda gives the Paloma a sparkling quality that helps differentiate it from becoming a grapefruit derivative. Common iterations of the Paloma combine blanco tequila and lime juice, topped generously with grapefruit soda (typically, bottled Squirt or Jarritos). Alternatively, you can forgo the grapefruit soda for a more fresh approach combining, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and club soda. Instead of relying on soda, I prefer to make the Paloma with fresh juices. In addition to freshness, this composition allows for even greater flexibility of the taste. To brighten the overall flavor of the cocktail, add a small pinch of salt (or a couple drops of saline solution) into the shaker — this technique is often used in baking because salt helps balance any bitterness from the citrus at the same time enhancing overall sweetness. The Paloma is often served “tall” in a highball or Collins glass with a salted rim, garnished with a slice of grapefruit amongst the ice cubes or clear ice spear. If “tall” is not your style, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with using a rocks glass, however it may simply change the way you approach the garnish of your cocktail. But don’t take my word for it, make one and try it yourself!
Paloma
In your shaker, combine the salt, simple syrup, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and blanco tequila.
1 pinch of Salt / 4 drops of Saline Solution
0.25 oz of Simple Syrup
0.5 oz of Lime Juice
2 oz of Grapefruit Juice
2 oz of Blanco Tequila
1 oz of Club Soda (to top)
Salt the rim of your Collins glass. Add ice to your shaker and shake until it develops a frost. Double-strain the contents (by pouring them from the shaker through a fine mesh strainer) into your Collins glass over ice and top with club soda. Garnish with a half-wheel of grapefruit.
Looking to try something a little more streamlined? Try the traditional recipe:
1 pinch of Salt
0.5 oz of Lime Juice
2 oz of Blanco Tequila
3 oz of Grapefruit Soda (to top)
TIP(S):
Half-rim of salt — rub the juiced lime or grapefruit around half of the glass and gently rock the cocktail glass in a dish of salt.
How to make saline solution — mix one part salt to four parts water (a 1:4 ratio) to achieve a saline solution with 20% dilution.
