Smoky Mezcal Paloma Cocktail
This bold Paloma swaps mezcal for tequila, adding smoky depth to fresh grapefruit, lime, and bubbly soda—a unique, balanced, and refreshing Mexican-inspired cocktail.
Equipment
- Rocks or highball glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Strainer
- Small plate for rimming
- Ice cubes
- Knife
Ingredients
- 2 oz smoky mezcal
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice strained
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz agave syrup or simple syrup
- 2 oz club soda or Topo Chico
- pinch of salt plus more for rim
- grapefruit slice or wedge for garnish
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the glass rim and dip in salt. Fill with ice cubes.
- Add mezcal, grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup, and pinch of salt to shaker. Add ice and shake until cold.
- Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice. Top with club soda. Stir gently and garnish with grapefruit.
Notes
Mezcal brings smoky depth—use espadín or your favorite. Agave syrup is traditional but simple syrup works. Try with grapefruit soda for a sweeter, less smoky drink. Salted rim is optional but recommended.