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Mezcal Paloma with Fresh Grapefruit and Chili Salt

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Servings: 1 Cocktail
Course: Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

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

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)

Method
 

  1. Rim the Glass
    Rub 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.
  2. Mix the Drink
    In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine mezcal, fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
  3. Shake It Up
    Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until chilled.
  4. Pour and Top
    Fill your rimmed glass with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass, then top with sparkling water.
  5. Garnish and Serve
    Garnish 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.