Mezcal Paloma

Looking for a cocktail that’s sweet, tart, and a little smoky? The Mezcal Paloma is your answer. With a perfect blend of grapefruit and mezcal, this drink will transport you straight to Mexico with each refreshing sip. It’s the ideal cocktail for when you want something light yet full of bold flavor.

Ingredients

• Mezcal: Mezcal gives this cocktail its signature smoky flavor. Made from agave plants, this spirit has gained huge popularity lately, and for good reason. It’s similar to tequila but with a unique depth from the smoking process.
• Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness. One lime per cocktail will do the trick.
• Grapefruit soda: A fizzy grapefruit soda like Jarritos or Fresca adds a bright, citrusy sweetness. Adjust to your taste!
• Honey simple syrup: Made by dissolving honey in water, this adds a richer sweetness compared to regular simple syrup. See the instructions below for how to make it.
• Ice: Don’t forget plenty of ice for that perfectly chilled sip.

How to Make a Mezcal Paloma

Step 1: Make the honey simple syrup

In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup of honey with ¼ cup of water. Heat over medium, whisking until the honey is fully dissolved. Set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Assemble the cocktail

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add your freshly squeezed lime juice, a shot of mezcal, and a splash of honey simple syrup. Shake for at least 15 seconds to mix and chill everything nicely.

Step 3: Serve

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

Step 4: Garnish and enjoy

Add a slice of lime or a wedge of grapefruit for a pop of color. If you want to get creative, try dipping the grapefruit wedge in chili powder for a spicy twist!

FAQ

Why is it called a Paloma?
"Paloma" is Spanish for dove. The cocktail is believed to have originated in Mexico in the 1920s.

What makes mezcal different from tequila?
Mezcal is made from various types of agave plants, while tequila is only made from blue agave. Its smoky flavor comes from roasting the agave.

Can I use tequila instead of mezcal?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less smoky flavor, you can swap the mezcal for tequila. It’s still a delicious drink either way.

What grapefruit soda should I use?
Any grapefruit soda works! Popular choices include Jarritos and Fresca, but feel free to use your favorite brand.

Recipe Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a kick by garnishing with pickled jalapeños or habaneros. Just be sure to remove the seeds if you don’t want too much heat.
• Salted rim: For an extra layer of flavor, dip the rim of your glass in salt or chili powder before pouring in your cocktail.
• Swap the sweetener: If you don’t have honey on hand, you can use regular simple syrup or even agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness.

How to Serve Mezcal

Mezcal can be enjoyed in so many ways! While it’s delicious in cocktails like this Paloma, it can also be sipped straight, served with a slice of orange, or mixed with club soda for a lighter drink.