The Mezcal Paloma is a bold twist on a classic. With smoky mezcal, fresh lime, fizzy grapefruit soda, and a hint of honey, this cocktail is equal parts refreshing and complex. Whether you’re winding down solo or serving friends, this is one of those easy drinks that feels a little fancy—but takes just minutes to make.
Looking for a smoky summer cocktail? This one’s it. Below, you’ll find what you need to make it, plus tips, substitutions, and a non-alcoholic version too.
Mezcal Paloma Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal: Distilled from agave with a bold, smoky flavor. Don’t love smoke? Swap in tequila for a milder take.
- 1 oz fresh lime juice: About 1 medium lime. Adds brightness and balance.
- 3–4 oz grapefruit soda: Jarritos, Fresca, or any citrusy soda you like. Adjust based on sweetness level.
- ½ oz honey simple syrup: Combine equal parts honey and hot water until dissolved. Adds depth and natural sweetness.
- Ice: For shaking and serving.
- Garnish (optional): Lime wheel or grapefruit wedge. Try a chili-salt rim for a spicy finish.
How to Make a Mezcal Paloma
Step 1: Make the honey syrup
In a small pot, combine ¼ cup honey and ¼ cup water. Warm over low heat, stirring until fully dissolved. Let cool and store in the fridge. Honey Syrup lasts up to a week.
Step 2: Mix the cocktail
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2 oz mezcal, 1 oz lime juice, and ½ oz honey syrup. Shake for 15 seconds until chilled.
Step 3: Serve and garnish
Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Top with 3–4 oz grapefruit soda. Stir gently. Garnish with lime or grapefruit, or rim your glass with salt or chili powder for extra flavor.
Variations to Try
- Make it spicy: Add a jalapeño or habanero slice (remove seeds for less heat).
- Switch the sweetener: Agave syrup, maple syrup, or plain simple syrup all work.
- Mocktail version: Replace mezcal with sparkling water or kombucha for a zero-proof twist.
Mezcal Paloma FAQs
What’s the best grapefruit soda for Palomas?
Jarritos and Fresca are go-tos, but any citrus soda will work. If you prefer it less sweet, try Q Mixers or make your own with grapefruit juice and club soda.
Can I use tequila instead of mezcal?
Yes—tequila makes a great substitute. It’s smoother and less smoky, but still gives a fresh Paloma profile.
How long does honey syrup last?
Up to one week in the fridge in a sealed jar. Make extra for more cocktails or iced tea.
Mezcal Paloma
The Paloma is another simple, delicious, tequila-based cocktail. With mezcal and grapefruit as the primary flavors. It's a margarita's simpler cousin, made with grapefruit soda instead of lime or lemon.
The result is a light, bubbly, refreshing drink that's easier on the palate than a margarita.
Ingredients
- 1 ounce mezcal
- ½ ounce lime juice
- ½ ounce grapefruit soda
- ½ ounce honey simple syrup (measured equal parts honey and water)
- Club soda to fill.
Instructions
To make the honey simple syrup:
- Add ¼ cup of honey to ¼ cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk honey until it has dissolved into the water.
- Set aside to cool.
Assemble
- Combine mezcal, lime juice, and grapefruit soda in a cocktail shaker.
- Shake well to combine
- Strain into a rocks or Collings glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda.
- Drizzle the top of the cocktail with honey simple syrup.
Notes
Have fun with garnishes on this one! Dip your grapefruit wedge in chili powder or add a salt rim. Garnish with pickled jalapenos or habaneros for some additional heat, but make sure to remove the seeds if you want it less spicy.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 155Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 18mgCarbohydrates: 203gFiber: 0gSugar: 199gProtein: 0g
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