Paloma With Grapefruit And Mint Sugar Rim Cocktail Recipe

A Paloma already feels fresh—no surprise there—but when you throw in a grapefruit twist and a mint sugar rim, it just hits different. The combo of citrus and mint brings a crisp, cool vibe that’s honestly perfect any time, whether it’s summer or not.

Here’s how I make a Paloma with a grapefruit and mint sugar rim that’s both gorgeous and super refreshing.

I love how easy this cocktail is. You won’t need fancy gadgets or weird ingredients—just a handful of basics that come together fast.

That mint sugar rim? It adds a gentle sweetness, which balances out the tart grapefruit and fizzy soda in the best way.

You’ll see each step, what gear I use, and what flavors you can expect in every sip. It’s a quick way to add some brightness to a party, or even just a quiet night in.

Paloma With Grapefruit And Mint Sugar Rim Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this Paloma when I want something light and citrusy, but still crisp. Mixing grapefruit juice, tequila, and that mint sugar rim gives the drink a refreshing twist that hits a sweet spot between sweet and tart.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker to mix things up evenly
• Citrus juicer for squeezing fresh lime and grapefruit
• Highball glass or Collins glass for serving
• Small plate or shallow dish for the mint sugar rim
• Measuring jigger so you don’t overdo it
• Bar spoon for stirring
• Ice cubes to chill things out
• Knife and cutting board for slicing citrus
• Fine strainer if you want a smoother drink

I always chill my glass first. It helps keep the drink cold longer and the mint sugar actually sticks better to the rim that way.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila blanco (or reposado tequila if you like it smoother)
• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice or pink grapefruit juice
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.25 oz agave nectar or simple syrup
• 2 to 3 oz club soda, sparkling water, or grapefruit soda (like Jarritos or Topo Chico)
• Ice cubes for shaking and serving
• Mint leaves for the rim and garnish
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar for the rim
• Optional: pinch of flaky sea salt for a little extra pop

I usually go for tequila blanco because it tastes clean and crisp. That mint sugar rim? It’s a little herbal, a little sweet, and it really works with the grapefruit.

Instructions

• Toss mint leaves and sugar into a small dish and rub them together until they smell amazing.
• Run a lime wedge around the rim of your chilled glass, then dip it into the mint sugar.
• Fill the glass halfway with ice cubes.
• Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave nectar to a cocktail shaker.
• Throw in some ice and shake it up for about 10 seconds.
• Strain everything into your prepped glass.
• Top with club soda or grapefruit soda and give it a gentle stir.
• Garnish with a mint sprig or a grapefruit slice if you’re feeling fancy.

If the grapefruit’s too tart, I just add a splash more agave.

Notes

Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice always tastes better. Bottled stuff usually ends up too sweet or just kind of flat.

If you want a smoky edge, swap in mezcal for the tequila blanco.

For something lighter, use sparkling water instead of soda. If you’re making these for a group, just multiply everything and mix it in a big pitcher—add the soda right before you pour.

This Paloma cocktail recipe works with both silver tequila and reposado tequila, so you can pick how bold you want it. The mint sugar rim adds a subtle aroma that just makes the whole thing feel extra bright and clean.

Tasting Notes

Right away, I get this bright mix of grapefruit and lime. The flavor comes off crisp and a bit tart—honestly, not too sharp though.

That mint sugar rim? It brings a gentle sweetness, which really helps balance the citrus.

The tequila adds a soft warmth, but it just hangs out quietly in the background. It blends with the fruit instead of pushing its way to the front.

I have to say, those bubbles from the soda keep each sip feeling fresh and lively.

After a couple of sips, the mint steps up. It cools things down and leaves a clean finish.

The sugar rim gives a soft crunch, making the texture a little more fun.

Flavor highlights:

• Citrus: bright, tangy, refreshing
• Mint: cool and light
• Sweetness: mild, thanks to the sugar rim
• Tequila: smooth, balanced

Honestly, I find this cocktail easy to drink. It strikes a nice balance between sweet, tart, and herbal notes.

Feels like the kind of thing I’d want to sip slowly on a warm day.