Here’s sneaky thing about the Paloma: this lovely little beauty is the drink to drink in Mexico, not the margarita. After tasting this, I totally understand why! Get out there, try one for yourself, and you’ll know it too. With our combined efforts, we’ll spread the word and get this drink the recognition it deserves!

Traditionally (and I’m one to happily buck tradition if the mood strikes me), you’ll make this with a grapefruit flavored soda. And if we’re being honest, and really standing by tradition, you’ll use Jarritos. There’s no disputing that fact.

Did I follow that tradition? Nope, not this time.

When I can, I’ll try to hunt down fresh ingredients (in this case, ditching the canned soda for fresh grapefruit juice) and use those instead. I always figure that if you can get something fresh and do it yourself, you’ll be even happier with the results. Plus, freshness? Why not?

Oh, and as it’s a touch, uh, grapefruit-y, I opted for some agave nectar. Sure, you can go sugar instead, or even honey (that’d be my usual pick), but I figured as the Paloma is tequila based, why not keep it in the agave family?

After saying all of that, if you go with Jarritos instead, I’m positive you’ll still enjoy a Paloma. An entire country can’t be wrong.

June 2nd, 2014 | by morgan