When it comes to classic cocktails, few are as refreshing—or as effortlessly stylish—as the Paloma. With its roots in Mexican tradition and a rise to global popularity, the Paloma has become a staple for those who love a drink that’s citrusy, crisp, and just the right mix of bitter and sweet. At Sodasmith, we set out to craft a Grapefruit Soda that doesn’t just complement a Paloma — it elevates it. The result? A clean, balanced mixer that sings with top-shelf tequila and stands proudly on its own.
Whether you’re a bartender, a home mixologist, or someone who simply enjoys sipping something special, this is your go-to guide for making the ultimate Paloma with Sodasmith.
What is a Paloma?
If you haven’t been formally introduced, the Paloma is a tequila-based cocktail typically made with grapefruit soda and lime juice, served over ice with a salted rim. It’s a staple in Mexico — and for good reason.
Unlike a Margarita, which leans sour and sharp, the Paloma is softer, more quenching, and relies on the delicate bitterness of grapefruit to do the heavy lifting. The result? A cocktail that’s perfect for summer afternoons, lazy evenings, or anytime you want something with just the right amount of zing.
Why the Grapefruit Soda matters
The star of the Paloma is undeniably grapefruit. But not all grapefruit sodas are created equal. Many mainstream options are either too sweet, too artificial, or lack that proper bitter-citrus balance that makes a Paloma sing.
Sodasmith’s Grapefruit Soda was developed specifically for people who care about what’s in their glass. We use real grapefruit juice and no artificial nasties — just pure flavour, natural sweetness, and the purity of Tasmanian mountain spring water.
It’s everything a grapefruit soda should be: fragrant, citrusy, and just bitter enough to balance beautifully with tequila. That’s why it’s become a favourite not only in our own kitchen but also behind the bar at some of Australia’s best cocktail venues.
What Makes Sodasmith Grapefruit Soda Different?
We built Sodasmith on a commitment to provenance and quality. Our Grapefruit Soda is:
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Made with real grapefruit juice, delivering authentic citrus notes
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Balanced with just a touch of sweetness from natural Australian cane sugar
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Finished with Tasmanian mountain spring water, renowned for its purity
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Free from artificial flavours, colours, and preservatives
The result is a soda that holds its own in a cocktail but is equally delicious on its own over ice. And because it’s not overly sweet, it gives you the flexibility to play with the flavour profile of your Paloma depending on the tequila you choose.
How to Make the Perfect Paloma with Sodasmith
Here’s our take on the classic, no-fuss Paloma — just the way we like to serve it:
Ingredients:
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45ml quality tequila (we love a good reposado or blanco)
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Big squeeze of fresh lime juice
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Salt for the rim
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Ice
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100–120ml Sodasmith Grapefruit Soda
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Lime wedge or grapefruit slice for garnish
Method:
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If desired, rim your glass with lime juice and dip it into coarse salt
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Fill the glass with ice
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Add the tequila and fresh lime juice
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Top with Sodasmith Grapefruit Soda
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Stir gently and garnish with a slice of lime or grapefruit
Tip: Want to take it up a notch? Add a splash of mezcal for a smoky twist or infuse your tequila with jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Pairing Notes: When to Serve a Paloma
The Paloma is the perfect companion to:
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Lazy Sunday barbecues
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Spicy Mexican dishes like tacos al pastor or ceviche
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Brunch sessions where Mimosas feel a bit too sweet
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Sunset drinks with good mates and a cheese board
Its lightness makes it a great option for daytime sipping, and its complexity (when done right) means it’s more than just a summer fling. It’s a cocktail you’ll come back to again and again.
Final Sip
The Paloma might be simple — but when made with the right ingredients, it’s anything but basic.
With its natural citrus bite, delicate bubbles, and refreshing finish, Sodasmith Grapefruit Soda is the perfect foundation for this classic cocktail. So whether you’re toasting with friends, pairing it with food, or just winding down after a long day, make yourself a Paloma and taste the difference.
Where to Find Sodasmith Grapefruit Soda
Our Grapefruit Soda is available online, in Liquorland stores across Australia, and through independent stockists who care about great ingredients as much as we do. You’ll find it alongside our full range of mixers and soft drinks, all made with Tasmanian spring water and the best local ingredients we can find.
If you're ready to upgrade your cocktail game — or just sip something better — grab a can of Grapefruit and taste the difference.