Swap tequila for mezcal and the Paloma picks up a layer of smoke that makes it feel like a late-afternoon drink even at lunch.
Why you are pouring this tonight
The Mezcal Paloma is the Paloma’s smokier cousin. Mezcal in place of tequila, fresh pink grapefruit, lime, agave, cold soda, salt rim, grapefruit wedge. The smoke takes over the room. Use a smoother espadin so it is a back-note, not the entire show.
Use Vago or Del Maguey Vida espadin mezcal. The cheaper mezcals can be aggressively smoky in a one-note way. Fresh-squeezed pink grapefruit. Real agave syrup, not honey. Cold soda from the fridge. Salt the rim with flaky Murray River salt and a small pinch of Tajín. Pair with smoky pork, mole negro, anything that has spent serious time near coals.
What changes from the Paloma
Tequila out, mezcal in. Everything else stays. Salt rim essential.
What to pour it alongside
Smoked trout tostadas, barbacoa, anything with charred corn.
The recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Salt half the rim of a highball glass.
- Fill with ice. Pour in mezcal, lime juice, pinch of salt.
- Top with grapefruit soda. Stir once gently.
- Garnish with lime wedge.
Nutrition
Want the classic? Our Paloma recipe is here.
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