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The classic Paloma cocktail goes glam with this herby grapefruit rosemary Paloma cocktail perfect for brightening up your day with fresh grapefruit syrup and herby rosemary accent!

What is a Paloma made of?

The classic Paloma is made of really simple, but gorgeous, ingredients! The key is freshness, and combining silver tequila, fresh grapefruit juice and squeezed lime is the only way to do it. It can also include a simple syrup like mine does here to amplify the grapefruit flavor. 

Originating in Mexico, a Paloma is one drink that I will go to again and again, even over a margarita because I love the variety of fresh citrus and pucker factor that goes along with it. 

How do you make a Paloma?

My big batch Paloma cocktail is so great for a crowd, because when you’re entertaining the last thing you want to do is make another single cocktail. This big batch version goes above and beyond the typical Paloma, since it includes making a grapefruit simple syrup to up the grapefruit taste and really pack a punch. 

A Paloma typically includes ice, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and soda water. Some variations can include using a grapefruit soda water, Jarritos, or other bubbly version, and garnishes it with slices of grapefruit or a lime wedge. 

This one also includes a rim of a mix of kosher salt and sugar, because I love the balance of those flavors. And I can never pick just one. But if you are a salty gal and like a salted rim, go for it! This is a choose your own adventure moment! 

And frankly, no one would be mad if you decided to do a Tajin rim either.

Paloma Cocktail Ingredients

The ingredients in any Paloma are very simple, and this is one that you can build off of to suit your tastes. 

Grapefruit Simple Syrup:

  • 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice (about 2 grapefruits)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 strips of grapefruit zest (use a vegetable peeler for wide strips)

Palomas:

  • 3 cups fresh grapefruit juice (about 6 grapefruits)
  • 2 cups tequila (Silver, preferred)
  • 1 cup grapefruit simple syrup, to taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
  • Club soda, to top
  • Ice

Steps

The part that takes the longest in this particular big batch cocktail is making the grapefruit simple syrup. 

  1. Make the Grapefruit Simple Syrup:
    1. In a small saucepan, combine the grapefruit juice, sugar, and grapefruit zest strips.
    2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
    3. Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
    4. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely. Strain out the zest strips and transfer the syrup to a container. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  2. Prepare the Palomas:
    1. In a large pitcher, combine the grapefruit juice, tequila, grapefruit simple syrup, and lime juice. Stir well to mix.
    2. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or acidity as needed by adding more simple syrup or lime juice.
  3. Serve the Palomas:
    1. If desired, rim the glasses with salt. To do this, rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into a plate of coarse salt.
    2. Fill each glass with ice and pour the Paloma mixture over the ice, leaving some room at the top.
    3. Top each glass with a splash of club soda.
    4. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and lime wedges and rosemary sprigs

FAQ About This Grapefruit Rosemary Big Batch Paloma

Can I use a different tequila?

Sure! I prefer a silver tequila in my Paloma, but there is definitely something to be said about using a reposado tequila or tequila blanco! Or, if you prefer to make a mocktail, or use a zero proof alcohol alternative, go nuts! 

What else can I add into my Paloma?

Since these are so citrus forward, try adding in an orange liqueur! It’s sweeter than just using the orange juice, but will give it a fun kiss of sweetness. Just an ounce or two will do quite a lot. 

If you don’t want to make a simple syrup, you could also use an agave nectar or agave syrup for sweetness if that is your thing! 

More Favorite Grapefruit and Cocktail Recipes

Grapefruit Marmalade

Grapefruit Kombucha Mojitos

25 Fall Inspired Drinks and Cocktails

Bourbon Amaretto Coolers

Strawberry Guava Mint Agua Fresca

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Big Batch Grapefruit Rosemary Paloma

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 2 reviews
  • Author: Megan Keno
  • Prep Time: 15 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 Minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 Servings 1x
  • Category: Cocktail
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: Mexican
Print Recipe

Description

A perfect all season cocktail made in a big batch for sharing!

Ingredients

Units Scale
Grapefruit Simple Syrup:
  • 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice (about 2 grapefruits)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 strips of grapefruit zest (use a vegetable peeler for wide strips)
Palomas:
  • 3 cups fresh grapefruit juice (about 6 grapefruits)
  • 2 cups tequila (Silver, preferred)
  • 1 cup grapefruit simple syrup, to taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
  • Club soda, to top
  • Ice
Garnishes:
  • Grapefruit slices
  • Lime wedges
  • Rosemary Sprigs
  • Coarse salt (for rimming glasses, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Grapefruit Simple Syrup:
    1. In a small saucepan, combine the grapefruit juice, sugar, and grapefruit zest strips.
    2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
    3. Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
    4. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely. Strain out the zest strips and transfer the syrup to a container. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  2. Prepare the Palomas:
    1. In a large pitcher, combine the grapefruit juice, tequila, grapefruit simple syrup, and lime juice. Stir well to mix.
    2. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or acidity as needed by adding more simple syrup or lime juice.
  3. Serve the Palomas:
    1. If desired, rim the glasses with salt. To do this, rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into a plate of coarse salt.
    2. Fill each glass with ice and pour the Paloma mixture over the ice, leaving some room at the top.
    3. Top each glass with a splash of club soda.
    4. Garnish with grapefruit slices and lime wedges and rosemary sprigs

Equipment