Paloma With Elderflower Liqueur Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always had a soft spot for tequila cocktails, and honestly, the Paloma’s right up there at the top for me. Adding elderflower liqueur? That’s where things get interesting—suddenly it’s lighter, a bit more playful, and just a touch floral.

A Paloma with elderflower liqueur is bright, refreshing, and floral in a way that feels special but still super easy to throw together.

If you’re tired of the usual margarita routine, this Paloma twist might surprise you. I like that the ingredients are simple; chances are, you’ve got most of them already.

It’s great for those nights in or when you’ve got friends dropping by and want to impress without fuss.

Paloma With Elderflower Liqueur Cocktail Recipe

What I love most is how this Paloma brings together citrusy zing and that soft, sweet floral edge. It’s not your average grapefruit-tequila combo—the elderflower really stands out.

The mix of tequila, grapefruit, and bubbly soda with a floral note is just… well, it’s kind of irresistible.

Equipment

• Highball glass
• Jigger (or just a small measuring cup)
• Bar spoon
• Citrus juicer (manual or electric, either works)
• Knife and cutting board for the fruit
• Ice cube tray
• Small plate or saucer (if you want a salt rim)
• Cocktail napkin (optional, but it’s a nice touch)

I keep my bar tools within reach, so making this is a breeze. A highball glass is my go-to—it shows off that pink color and makes the drink look as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila (I’m partial to blanco, it’s fresh and clean)
• 1 ounce elderflower liqueur
• 2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
• 0.5 ounces fresh lime juice
• 4 ounces grapefruit soda (make sure it’s cold)
• Ice cubes
• Grapefruit wedge or slice, for garnish
• Optional: Salt (for the rim, if you’re into that)

Fresh juice does wonders here, trust me. The elderflower liqueur isn’t overpowering—it’s just enough to make you go, “Hmm, what’s that?”

Instructions

• If you like a salted rim, rub a lime wedge around the glass, dip it in salt, and set it aside.
• Fill up your glass with ice cubes.
• Pour in the tequila, elderflower liqueur, grapefruit juice, and lime juice.
• Give it a gentle stir with your bar spoon so everything mingles.
• Top with chilled grapefruit soda, then one last gentle stir.
• Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or slice.
• Serve with a cocktail napkin if you’re feeling fancy.

I always stir gently—don’t want to kill those soda bubbles. The grapefruit garnish is more than just pretty; it smells amazing as you sip.

Notes

Blanco tequila is my favorite for this, since it keeps things crisp. If you don’t want it too sweet, just dial back the elderflower liqueur a little.

You can swap out grapefruit soda for club soda and more juice if you’re watching your sugar. Pink grapefruit gives the best color, but white’s totally fine.

Sometimes I squeeze in extra lime if I’m craving more tartness. For a party, I just multiply everything (except the soda) in a pitcher, then add soda right before serving to keep it fizzy.

Tasting Notes

So, first sip—there’s this gentle floral thing happening, definitely from the elderflower liqueur. It sort of floats over the tartness of the grapefruit soda, and honestly, it’s a pretty inviting start.

The flavor? Crisp, refreshing, almost delicate. The elderflower brings in a bit of sweetness, but it’s subtle, not at all cloying.

Compared to a classic margarita, this one feels softer, less sharp on the tongue. There’s just not as much acidity going on, which I kind of appreciate.

The tequila is there, adding just enough warmth. Then the grapefruit and lime come through, making the whole thing feel really bright and zesty.

It’s hard not to think of summer with this in your glass.

Here’s a quick comparison with a classic margarita:

• Paloma with Elderflower Liqueur: Smooth, floral, lower in acidity, more sweetness
• Margarita: Citrusy, higher acidity, tart, sometimes a bit salty

Honestly, I like how balanced this cocktail feels. It’s light, but it doesn’t get boring.

The floral notes are noticeable, but they don’t take over. Every ingredient gets its little moment—nothing’s lost.