This is week 3 of Tequila Cocktails
Today Cocktail, The Paloma, is a refreshing Mexican concoction that artfully blends tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice. Translating to “dove” in Spanish, the Paloma is a smooth, easy-drinking libation that has become popular on both sides of the border. Let’s explore the history and original recipe for this tangy tequila drink.
Like many classic cocktails, the exact origins of the Paloma are murky. But it became firmly rooted in Mexican drinking culture. The Paloma likely originated sometimes in the mid-20th century as tequila began gaining popularity in tourist spots like Tijuana and Mexico City.
Recipes for the tequila-grapefruit drink appear in Mexican magazines by the 1960s. The earliest-known Paloma recipe comes from a newspaper in 1966, calling for tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime. Many believe the cocktail got its start along the border regions of Mexico.
One account credits Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner of La Capilla bar in Tequila, Jalisco with inventing the Paloma in the 1950s using locally produced tequila and Squirt grapefruit soda. As this story goes, he named it the Paloma as an ode to his favorite dove. The cocktail then spread from there.
Another legend points to bartender Feliciano Cervantes of Cantina La Piedad in San Luis Potosí in 1938 as the creator. But the true origins remain obscured. Regardless, the Paloma clearly arose in Mexico sometime mid-century, likely created by multiple bartenders riffing on tequila and grapefruit.
This light, quasi-salty cocktail eventually gained popularity in the U.S. as tequila’s profile rose. It became a common drink order in Mexican restaurants and bars, especially on the West Coast. The Paloma remains an accessible introductory tequila drink for its easy-drinking nature.
The Paloma
Ingredients
- 2 ounces blanco tequila
- 1⁄2 ounce fresh lime juice
- 3-4 ounces grapefruit soda (Squirt or Jarritos)
- Lime wedge, for rimming the glass
- Sea salt or chili salt, for rimming the glass
- Grapefruit wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Add lime juice to half of the rim of a tall glass and dip in salt to coat the edge.
- Fill the glass with ice, add tequila and grapefruit soda.
- Stir gently 3-4 times to incorporate.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and stir again.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
The ideal Paloma balances the bright citrus flavors with earthy, peppery tequila. The sweet grapefruit soda helps tame the spirit, while the lime adds brightness. Make sure to use fresh, quality ingredients. Customize your Paloma with different tequila styles, soda brands, and rim salts. Cheers!
As always I am open to hear your take and your input. You can reach me at [email protected]