
By Tahona Society Editorial Team
The Palomary: National Paloma Day!
Written by
The Tahona Society Editorial Team
Published on
May 19, 2023
Tell us what type of palate your client has and we’ll tell you what style of Paloma they prefer… Whether it’s traditional, crafted, delicate or innovative, let’s toast Paloma Day on May 22 with one of them!
This is ideal for a client who enjoys classic recipes. The original Paloma is made with 60 ml of blanco or reposado tequila, 30 ml of fresh lime juice, grapefruit soda and a salted rim. Just make sure you use a 100% agave tequila.
This is for the client that always asks you to upgrade his drink by using the best 100% agave tequila or with the highest quality of fresh sustainable, local, natural ingredients. Here are some tips for customizing your client’s Crafted Paloma:
1. Use fresh grapefruit juice instead of grapefruit soda.
2. Use locally-sourced citrus — be sustainable!
3. Invent your own authentic crafted drink on Paloma Day.
4. Aim for the perfect citrus balance.
5. Choose a locally-sourced natural sweetener.
6. Garnish with a half slice of pink grapefruit and rim glass with salt and smashed pink peppercorns.
How could anyone celebrate Paloma Day without our exquisite Crafted Paloma? The inspiration for this came from the classic cocktail, but our version is unique because it reflects the hand-crafted spirit of the Altos production process. It is a modern twist on the classic, embracing our premium spirit with fresh ingredients.
Acidic but at the same time bitter and somewhat sweet, the grapefruit is the protagonist of the Paloma, right beside the tequila of course.
Select one or two different grapefruits local to your area but choose them for their correct citrus balance with the sweetener you will use. The amount of citrus juice used will also depend on the sweetness and acidity of the fruit available locally.
Varieties:
Lemon juice
Try exchanging the fresh lime juice – from the classic Paloma – with fresh lemon juice.
While the classic Paloma has grapefruit soda, which often contains artificial sugar, preservatives, and coloring among its ingredients, we recommend using alternative natural sweeteners for an exciting and sustainable twist. Consider these options below in your concoction, keeping in mind they may alter the final color of your cocktail.
Demerara sugar
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Use a 1:1 mix of pink ground pepper (not pulverized) and flaky sea salt.
To achieve the balance between acidity, sweetness and bitterness, salt is needed. Salt enhances the overall flavor since it increases the palatability of the drink; it also intensifies the umami — considered the fifth taste — which causes salivation and stimulates the throat, palate and back of the mouth.
Pour all the ingredients, except the grapefruit juice, into a glass. Mix using the Altos molinillo (grinder) to dissolve the agave syrup. Fill the glass with ice and finish with the pink grapefruit juice.
If your client asks you for a floral, balanced and citrus-forward Paloma, consider the Lavender Paloma with its subtle fruity notes which beautifully highlight the tequila, adding elegance and delicacy. This ethereal version seems to emerge straight out of a spring paloma dream. Always serve up!
*Created by our beloved Simon Kistenfeger, Global Bran Ambassador @the_real_vikingo.
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake. Serve into a coupette glass. Garnish with lavander twig.
This one is ideal for surprising customers who always come to the bar and ask for signature drinks with a different touch because they enjoy flavors with character.
A deep red rather than pink, this Paloma is earthy with mineral hints, and has a nice acidity that balances out its natural sweetness. Very refreshing and perfect for brunch or evening drinks!
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake. Serve into a tumbler rimmed with salt and spices. Garnish with basil leaves.