What tequila is best for a Paloma?
Blanco (silver) tequila is the go-to because it is clean, peppery, and plays nice with citrus. That said, reposado is also very common and delicious here if you want a slightly warmer, vanilla-oak note.
Can I use fresh grapefruit juice instead of grapefruit soda?
Yes. Swap the soda for 2 to 3 ounces fresh grapefruit juice plus 2 to 4 ounces sparkling water. Taste and adjust: some grapefruit is extra bitter or extra sweet, so you may want a little agave or a tiny pinch of salt to round it out.
How do I make it less spicy?
Skip the jalapeño (if using) and do a half rim of tajín so each sip is in your control. You can also rim with plain kosher salt, or just go very light with the tajín since it can be salty.
How do I make a pitcher for a group?
For 8 drinks, stir together: 2 cups tequila, 2 cups pineapple juice, 1 cup fresh lime juice, and 2 to 4 tablespoons agave (optional). Chill. To serve, pour over ice and top each glass with 3 to 4 ounces grapefruit soda.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Yep. Replace tequila with cold club soda or a zero-proof tequila alternative. Keep the pineapple, lime, and tajín rim. It is still super refreshing.
What pineapple juice should I use?
Use whatever you have, but know this: sweetness varies. Unsweetened canned pineapple juice is usually the most consistent, and fresh pineapple juice can be brighter but sometimes sweeter. Start without agave, taste after topping with soda, then sweeten only if needed.
