Palomas can be made with grapefruit soda or a combination of grapefruit juice and simple syrup, depending on where you order them. This recipe for piña paloma adds a tropical flavor to the original recipe.
We replace simple syrup with pineapple juice, which imparts a moderate, fruit-forward sweetness instead. You can use bottled, chilled, or fresh pineapple juice in this recipe. In contrast, grapefruit and lime juice should always be fresh.
The sort of tequila you use is entirely up to you, however this recipe suggests using reposado or blanco tequila. Reposado tequila is matured for up to a year in oak barrels, resulting in a warm smoothness with aromas of vanilla and caramel.
It's an excellent choice for cocktails (especially when grapefruit is incorporated), since the smoothness balances out the acidic and vivid citrus flavors.
YIELDS:1 serving(s)PREP TIME:5 minsTOTAL TIME:10 mins
INGREDIENTS:Kosher salt1 lime wedgeIce2 oz. reposado or blanco tequila1 oz. fresh grapefruit juice1 oz. pineapple juiceJuice of 1/2 limeSoda water, for topping off1 pineapple leaf1 grapefruit wedge
Step 1: Place some salt on a small plate. Rub one side of a Collins glass with a lime slice, then dip it into salt and spin to coat.
DIRECTIONS:
Step 2: Fill prepared glass with ice. Combine the tequila, grapefruit juice, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
Step 3: Top with club soda and swirl gently with a bar spoon. Garnish with a pineapple leaf and grapefruit wedge.