The cocktail notebook · Tequila & agave
Paloma
Citrus, grapefruit-bitter, gently salty and sparkling. A highball made by build.
- Base
- 100% agave tequila
- Method
- Build
- Glass
- Highball
- Yield
- One drink
Recipe reference: IBA reference recipe. Reference quantities follow IBA. Glass capacity, product selection and local service procedures require venue confirmation.
Paloma recipe
1 serving · IBA reference recipeMillilitres control this recipe. US fluid ounces are rounded to the nearest quarter ounce for convenience and are not a different recipe ratio. Dashes, spoons, leaves and other non-liquid measures are listed as written.
| Measure | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 50 ml≈ 1.75 US fl oz | 100% agave tequila |
| 5 ml≈ 0.25 US fl oz | fresh lime juice |
| 100 ml≈ 3.5 US fl oz | pink grapefruit soda |
| 1 small pinch | salt |
Ice: Cubed ice. Garnish: 1 lime slice.
Learning bar service? Continue with the Paloma in module 1 of the free course →
How to make it
- Measure tequila and lime into the glass.
- Add fresh ice and a small pinch of salt.
- Pour the chilled grapefruit soda slowly.
- Lift gently once and add the lime slice.
Why it works: Grapefruit soda supplies both bitterness and sweetness; grapefruit juice plus plain soda is a different specification.
Common mistakes, useful fixes
Flat soda
open it close to service.
Harsh salt
use a small controlled pinch.
Different grapefruit products
trial the actual brand.
Serving the guest
What to tell the guest
Citrus, grapefruit-bitter, gently salty and sparkling. Grapefruit soda supplies both bitterness and sweetness; grapefruit juice plus plain soda is a different specification.
Dietary and product checks
Check exact products, declared allergens and cross-contact controls before service.
Variations
- Any adaptation needs a recorded recipe and an honest description. Explain the grapefruit character and offer a less bitter citrus option.
Where does the Paloma come from?
Origin: Origin not yet verified in this edition. (Origin not yet verified in this edition)
The Paloma teaches why a mixer is more than a way to lengthen a spirit. Here grapefruit soda contributes flavour, sugar and carbonation together. Our reference establishes the modern formula, not a definitive creation story. Avoid attaching a confident inventor or date to this lesson without a historical source.
Paloma questions
Can grapefruit juice replace the soda directly?
No. Carbonation and sweetness would change; use a separately tested variation.
What preparation detail matters for this order?
Grapefruit soda supplies both bitterness and sweetness; grapefruit juice plus plain soda is a different specification.
From a recipe to a repeatable skill
Learn the method behind the order.
Paloma is a required study in Essential Cocktails & Bar Foundations, module 1: Station, measures and built drinks. Introduce tequila, grapefruit and salt; compare mixers without silent substitution.
The course is free. An optional paid certificate tests knowledge in an online exam; it is not an observed practical assessment or an accredited bartending qualification.