Classic Paloma: The Traditional Recipe
Rim your glass with water, a lime wedge, or a grapefruit wedge, then roll it in salt to coat. Mix the tequila, lime juice, and sugar syrup. Once well combined, pour the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Alternatively, you can mix everything directly in the glass—it’s quicker, and skipping the sugar creates a less sweet but equally delightful version. The next step is adding the grapefruit soda. While you can use any brand, options like Jarritos, Squirt, or Fresca are more traditional choices. Top off the drink with grapefruit soda. Alternatively, you can use grapefruit juice and sparkling water for a lighter version. Garnish with a slice of lime or grapefruit and enjoy!
Have you ever wondered what the classic Paloma recipe is? This iconic cocktail, originating in Mexico, has gained worldwide recognition. However, its versatility has led to countless variations, leaving the traditional recipe often overlooked.
At Altos, we’re bringing you the authentic version of the Paloma—simple, refreshing, and absolutely delicious—so you can enjoy it anytime, anywhere.
Ingredients to Prepare the Classic Paloma Recipe
The authentic version of this cocktail requires just four ingredients, with tequila, of course, being the star. Use a jigger to measure the quantities accurately.
- 2 parts Altos Plata tequila
- 1 part Grapefruit soda (grapefruit juice and sparkling water)
- 1 part Freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 Agave or simple syrup
- Optional garnishes: salt, lime and grapefruit slices
How to Make the Traditional Paloma Recipe
To prepare this authentic Paloma recipe, follow these steps:
- Prepare your glasses (optional): Pour salt onto a small plate. Moisten the rim of your glass with water, a lime wedge, or a grapefruit wedge, then roll it in the salt to coat.
- Mix the tequila, lime juice, and sugar syrup in a cocktail shaker: Shake well, then strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Alternatively, you can mix everything directly in the glass—it’s quicker, and skipping the sugar creates a less sweet but equally delightful version.
- Add the grapefruit soda: Choose any brand, but traditional options include Jarritos, Squirt, or Fresca.
- Top it off with grapefruit soda: Alternatively, use a combination of grapefruit juice and sparkling water for a lighter take.
- Garnish and enjoy: Add a slice of lime or grapefruit for the perfect finishing touch.
Learn With Olmeca How to Make a Classic Paloma Drink
In this video, you’ll discover how to prepare a delicious and authentic Mexican Paloma recipe that’s both easy and fun to make. The ingredients are mostly common household staples, and the final result is a wonderfully refreshing drink that’s perfect for keeping your guests cool on a hot day.
Try Other Variations of the Classic Paloma
Why not explore other versions of the Paloma crafted by our bartender, Dré Masso:
Olmeca Altos Plata for a Truly Authentic Recipe
To create a truly classic Paloma, you need to use Altos Plata tequila. Why? For starters, Altos Plata is crafted in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico—the birthplace of the Paloma. This gives it an authentic connection to the cocktail’s origins, ensuring a genuine experience.
But that’s not all. This is a premium tequila, carefully crafted by master tequila makers. Made exclusively from the finest 100% blue agave, it’s the ideal choice for a cocktail like the Paloma, where balanced and harmonious flavours are key.
