The Mezcal Paloma is a smoky take on the classic Paloma cocktail, incorporating the bold, earthy flavors of mezcal with the refreshing citrus notes from grapefruit and lime. Originally created as a tequila cocktail, the Mezcal Paloma has become a favorite among mezcal lovers who recognize that spirit’s nuanced nature. It’s ideal for warm weather, backyard parties, or whenever you want to have a drink with a refreshing bite.
How to Make Homemade Mezcal Paloma
The Mezcal Paloma begins with good mezcal, which gives the drink its signature smokiness. The combination of fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sparkling soda is sweet yet tart and fizzy. Rim a glass with salt for some savoriness, and garnish with a wedge of grapefruit for aesthetics.
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 3 oz grapefruit soda
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Ice
- Grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Rim a highball glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim of the glass and down into salt. Fill the glass with ice.
- Shake the Mix: Combine mezcal, lime juice, and a handful of ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Shake well.
- Assemble the Drink: Strain the drink into the prepared glass.
- Top with Soda: Add grapefruit soda (or juice mixed with soda water) to the mezcal mixture.
- Serve: Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit or a slice of lime.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Mexican plates like tacos or enchiladas for an upbeat vibe.
- Serve as a pre-dinner drink to come in on an effervescent note.
- For an elegant touch, garnish with edible flowers.
- Also great with chips and guacamole for casual entertaining.
- Use a smoky mezcal to bring out the drink’s big flavors at BBQs.
Tips and Variations
- Use mezcal instead of tequila for a gentler taste.
- For a less sweet version, use fresh grapefruit juice mixed with soda water.
- A hint of chili powder to the rim for a zing.
- You can also try flavored sparkling water for different variations.
- Use an aged mezcal for an extra smoky profile.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Serving Size: 1
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~190-210
- Carbohydrates: ~16-18g
- Sugar: ~12g
- Vitamin C: ~25-30% of daily intake
Ingredient Substitutes
- Mezcal: Use tequila instead for a less smoky flavor.
- Grapefruit Soda: Fresh grapefruit juice + soda water.
- Salt Rim: Use sugar for a sweeter take.
- Lime Juice: If you can’t find fresh limes, you can use bottled lime juice (or try lemon juice for a milder citrus flavor).
- Ice: Instead of regular ice cubes, use chunks of frozen fruit (grapefruit or lime slices work well), which will keep the drink cool without diluting its flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes a Mezcal Paloma from a traditional Paloma?
The Mezcal Paloma swaps in mezcal for tequila, which brings an earthy, smoky note.
Can I use bottled grapefruit juice instead?
Yes, but fresh grapefruit juice delivers a fresher, more natural flavor.
Do I need to rim the glass with salt?
No, but it balances flavors in the drink.”
What mezcal is the best for this recipe?
Choose 100 percent agave mezcal that has a balanced smokiness, like Espadín varieties.
Can I do a mocktail version?
Replace the mezcal with a smoky-flavored nonalcoholic spirit, and follow the same steps.
Conclusion
The Mezcal Paloma is a fantastic cocktail that showcases the smoky complexity of mezcal without being heavy or overly rich. Simple to personalize, it’s an ideal sip for any event, from informal parties to festive soirees. Toast to enjoying this refreshing Mexican classic!
Mezcal Paloma Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Glass
Rim a highball glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim of the glass and down into salt. Fill the glass with ice.
Shake the Mix
Combine mezcal, lime juice, and a handful of ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Shake well.
Assemble the Drink
Strain the drink into the prepared glass.
Top with Soda
Add grapefruit soda (or juice mixed with soda water) to the mezcal mixture.
Serve
Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit or a slice of lime.
