The Paloma is a tequila-based cocktail typically made with grapefruit flavor and sparkling water or soda.
A common Paloma combines tequila with grapefruit soda, although versions made with fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, sweetener, and carbonated water are also widely served. The drink is usually built over ice and may be finished with a pinch of salt or a salted rim.
The Paloma is often described as one of Mexico’s best-known tequila cocktails. Its grapefruit profile distinguishes it from the Margarita, whose familiar formula uses lime juice and orange liqueur. Because recipes vary, grapefruit soda is characteristic rather than an absolute requirement in every modern version.
The cocktail’s name means “dove” in Spanish. Its simple highball format makes it especially suitable for long drinks, and the carbonation helps lighten the flavor of the tequila and citrus.