There’s something magical about cocktails that balance bright citrus with aromatic herbs. The Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma is that perfect marriage — a refreshing tequila-based drink with a fragrant rosemary twist that elevates it from simple to sophisticated.
While the classic Paloma relies solely on grapefruit soda or juice, this version incorporates fresh-squeezed juice for depth, rosemary-infused simple syrup for complexity, and a light sparkling topper for effervescence. The result? A drink that’s both elegant enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a sunny afternoon.
I first discovered this combination at a coastal bar in Baja, where rosemary sprigs grew wild near the beach. Since then, I’ve made it my go-to crowd-pleaser — a drink that looks stunning in the glass, delights the palate, and keeps guests asking for “just one more.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz rosemary simple syrup
- Sparkling water to top
- Coarse salt for rim (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish
Ingredients Breakdown
Blanco Tequila – Choose a high-quality blanco tequila with crisp agave notes to let the citrus and rosemary shine.
Fresh Grapefruit Juice – Freshly squeezed juice gives the Paloma a vibrant, tangy kick that bottled juice can’t match.
Fresh Lime Juice – Adds acidity and brightness, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Rosemary Simple Syrup – Made by simmering sugar, water, and rosemary sprigs. This aromatic syrup infuses a subtle herbal depth.
Sparkling Water – A light, bubbly finish keeps the drink crisp and refreshing without overpowering the flavors.
Coarse Salt – Optional for a salted rim, enhancing both the sweetness and tartness of the drink.
Fresh Rosemary Sprig – A fragrant and photogenic garnish that hints at the flavors inside.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your glass
If using a salted rim, run a grapefruit wedge along the edge of your glass and dip into coarse salt. This extra touch adds a professional look and flavor.
Step 2: Mix the base
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and rosemary simple syrup. Shake for 10–12 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
Step 3: Build the drink
Strain the mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice. The vibrant pink-orange color will be instantly eye-catching.
Step 4: Add bubbles
Top with sparkling water for a refreshing effervescence. Adjust the amount based on your preference for strength and fizz.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Gently slap the rosemary sprig between your hands to release its oils, then place it into the drink. Serve immediately for maximum aroma and freshness.
Ingredients
Method
- Optional: Rim your glass with coarse salt.
- In a shaker with ice, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and rosemary simple syrup.
- Shake well and strain into a glass over ice.
- Top with sparkling water and garnish with rosemary.
Notes
- For the rosemary syrup: Simmer 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 3 rosemary sprigs for 5 minutes. Cool before using.
- Use ruby red grapefruit for a sweeter, more vibrant color.
The Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma is a modern twist on a Mexican classic — perfect for brunches, warm-weather happy hours, or as a signature drink at your next dinner party. It’s easy to make in batches, photographs beautifully for social media, and delivers a layered, refreshing flavor that guests will remember long after the last sip.