Name: Mezcal Paloma
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ounce mezcal; 1/2 ounce lime juice; 1/2 ounce grapefruit soda; 1/2 ounce honey simple syrup (measured equal parts honey and water); Club soda to fill.

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a cocktail that’s sweet, tart, and smoky? The Mezcal Paloma is your answer. With a mix of grapefruit soda and mezcal, it delivers bold flavors and refreshing sips that transport you straight to Mexico. Whether you're relaxing after a long day or hosting friends, this cocktail hits the spot.

three mezcal paloma cocktails garnished with slices of lime and grapefruit

Ingredients for Mezcal Paloma

Mezcal: The smoky depth of mezcal is what sets this drink apart. Distilled from agave, it’s like tequila’s bolder cousin. Not a fan of smoke? Try tequila instead for a lighter twist.
Lime juice: Fresh lime juice balances the drink with its zesty tartness. Just one lime is all you need for each cocktail.
Grapefruit soda: A fizzy grapefruit soda like Jarritos or Fresca brings bright, citrusy sweetness. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.
Honey simple syrup: Made by mixing honey with water, this syrup adds a richer flavor than regular sugar syrup. You can easily whip it up at home in a few minutes.
Ice: Lots of ice is key for that perfectly chilled sip.

Directions

Step 1: Make the honey simple syrup

In a small saucepan, combine equal parts honey and water (¼ cup each). Warm over medium heat, stirring until the honey dissolves. Let it cool before using.

Step 2: Mix the cocktail

Fill a shaker with ice, then add fresh lime juice, mezcal, and a bit of honey simple syrup. Shake for at least 15 seconds to mix and chill the drink.

Step 3: Serve

Strain the mixture into a rocks glass or Collins glass filled with ice. Top it off with grapefruit soda, stirring gently to combine.

Step 4: Garnish

A lime slice or grapefruit wedge is a classic garnish. Want a little spice? Try dusting the grapefruit with chili powder for a fun twist.

Mezcal Paloma Recipe Variations

Make it spicy: Toss in a slice of jalapeño or a habanero ring for a spicy kick. If you don’t want too much heat, just remove the seeds.
Salted rim: Dip the rim of your glass in salt or chili powder before pouring in your drink for an extra burst of flavor.
Switch up the sweetener: No honey? Agave syrup or regular simple syrup works just as well.

Mezcal Paloma Recipe Tips

How long does honey simple syrup last?

Store it in the fridge, and you’re good for up to a week. Perfect for making a few Palomas whenever the mood strikes!

Can I use tequila instead of mezcal?

Of course! If you prefer a less smoky drink, swapping mezcal for tequila is a great option. It gives you a more traditional Paloma experience.

What’s the best grapefruit soda to use?

Jarritos and Fresca are popular, but feel free to use any brand you like. Try a few to find your favorite!

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Just skip the mezcal and replace it with club soda or sparkling water. You’ll still get the refreshing citrusy flavors without the booze.

📖 Recipe

Mezcal Paloma

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

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:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 155Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 18mgCarbohydrates: 203gFiber: 0gSugar: 199gProtein: 0g