For the summer garden parties there are few cocktails that get my vote, but the classic Paloma, a tequila cocktail, is one of my favourites at the moment. Don't be put off by the tequila, choose wisely and you won't be disappointed.
For the recipe below, I am using Don Julio 70 Añejo Cristalino, another excellent option is Clase Azul Reposado, both smooth and if drank with responsibility are a joy before and after. I have seen this same recipe done with mezcal, it is a matter of taste, I prefer tequila.
I have made my own variations of this Paloma cocktail recipe, I have been out of grapefruit soda and added tonic water (Fever-Tree if you ask). Play with the citrus juices, if you omit the grapefruit juice make sure you do use grapefruit soda. One thing is for sure, the drink will always look better if you strain the bits from the grapefruit and lemon juice, but frankly this recipe is so refreshing and delicious than citrus bits will do not harm.
For a party it is easy to scale up. You can batch-mix the first four ingredients a few hours in advance and store in the fridge until needed.
Serves
One
Ingredients
- 50ml silver tequila, or 3 tbsp (which is slightly less than 50ml)
- 15ml / 1tbsp freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
-
15ml / 1tbsp lime juice - ½ tsp sugar or agave syrup
- grapefruit soda to taste, but at least 60ml per serve.
- lime or grapefruit slice, to garnish
Method
- Mix the tequila, grapefruit and lime juice and agave or sugar syrup.
- When ready to serve, pour into an ice-filled tumbler or highball, top with grapefruit soda and garnish with a slice of lemon.
Photo by No Revisions on Unsplash