Mezcal Paloma with Fresh Grapefruit and Chili Salt Rim
This refreshing Mezcal Paloma is a smoky, citrusy twist on the classic Mexican cocktail. The vibrant combination of fresh grapefruit, lime, and a chili-lime salt rim gives it a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and spicy. Serve it at brunch, happy hour, or any time you want a bold yet bright drink.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker (or mason jar with lid)
- Highball or rocks glass
- Small plate or saucer (for rimming the glass)
- Measuring jigger (or standard tablespoon)
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice about ½ a grapefruit
- ½ oz fresh lime juice about ½ a lime
- ½ oz agave syrup or simple syrup
- 2 oz sparkling water club soda or grapefruit-flavored soda
- Ice cubes
- 1 tbsp chili-lime salt e.g., Tajín or mix 1 tsp chili powder + 1 tsp salt + lime zest
- 1 lime wedge for rimming
- 1 grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Rim the GlassRub the rim of a highball or rocks glass with a lime wedge. Dip the rim into the chili salt mixture on a small plate. Set aside.
- Mix the DrinkIn a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine mezcal, fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
- Shake It UpShake vigorously for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Pour and TopFill your rimmed glass with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass, then top with sparkling water.
- Garnish and ServeGarnish with a grapefruit wedge and enjoy immediately.
Video
Notes
- No mezcal? Use tequila for a milder version, though you’ll miss that signature smoky character.
- Sweeter Paloma? Add a splash more agave or use grapefruit soda instead of sparkling water.
- Make it spicy: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for extra heat.
- Batch it: Multiply the ingredients by 6–8 for a party pitcher version. Add sparkling water right before serving to keep it fizzy.