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Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma - Bright, Herbal, and Refreshing

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Blanco tequila: Clean and fresh, it lets the citrus shine. Reposado also works if you prefer a hint of oak.
  • Fresh grapefruit juice: Ruby red or pink grapefruit gives sweetness and color; white grapefruit is more tart and aromatic.
  • Fresh lime juice: Brightens and sharpens the flavors.
  • Rosemary simple syrup: Equal parts sugar and water infused with fresh rosemary. It adds subtle herbal sweetness.
  • Club soda or sparkling water: For that refreshing fizz.
  • Kosher salt or flaky sea salt: Optional for a salted rim that highlights the citrus.
  • Ice: Cubes for shaking and serving. Large cubes melt slower.
  • Garnishes: Fresh rosemary sprig and a grapefruit wedge or slice.

Method
 

  1. Make the rosemary simple syrup: Combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Add 2 rosemary sprigs. Bring to a gentle simmer, stir to dissolve, and remove from heat. Let steep 15–20 minutes, then strain and cool. Store in the fridge.
  2. Salt the rim (optional): Run a lime wedge around half the rim of a highball or rocks glass. Dip that side into kosher or flaky salt. Salting only half gives control with each sip.
  3. Fill the glass with ice: Use fresh, solid cubes. More ice keeps the drink colder and prevents dilution.
  4. Shake the base: In a shaker, add 2 oz blanco tequila, 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5–0.75 oz rosemary simple syrup (to taste). Add ice and shake 10–12 seconds, until chilled.
  5. Strain and top: Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice. Top with 2–3 oz club soda or sparkling water. Give a gentle stir to combine.
  6. Garnish: Smack a rosemary sprig between your palms to release oils and place it in the glass. Add a grapefruit wedge or thin slice on the rim.
  7. Taste and adjust: If it’s too tart, add a dash more syrup. If it’s too sweet, squeeze in a touch more lime or add extra soda.