Elderflower Paloma
Refreshing summer cocktail
A bright and refreshing twist on the classic Paloma, this elderflower version pairs the crisp bite of tequila with the soft floral sweetness of elderflower cordial, the sharp tang of fresh lime, and the zesty bitterness of pink grapefruit juice.
It’s an elegant yet easy summer cocktail that feels right at home in summer, whether served at a garden party or enjoyed quietly in the evening sun.
While the traditional Paloma is thought to have emerged in Mexico in the mid-20th century, this variation takes inspiration from English elderflower season, blending Mexican heritage with British floral notes. The addition of a Tajín-salted rim nods back to Mexico, bringing gentle heat and citrusy spice that sharpens the grapefruit and adds depth to each sip.
The hero ingredients here are the elderflower cordial, which adds perfume and sweetness without overpowering, and the grapefruit juice, which gives the drink its characteristic balance of bitter and bright. The soda water lengthens it into a crisp, thirst-quenching drink without diluting its character.
This Elderflower Paloma is simple to mix, refreshing to drink, and made for long, lazy lunches in the sun. The optional Tajín rim gives a lively kick that balances the floral and citrus notes, making each sip even more memorable.
Elderflower Paloma
Elderflower Paloma made with tequila, grapefruit, and lime – this summer cocktail is floral, refreshing, and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 100ml tequila blanco
- 50ml elderflower cordial
- 50ml fresh lime juice
- 150ml fresh pink grapefruit juice (or good-quality bottled)
- Soda water, to top up
- Ice
- Grapefruit wedge or twist
- Salt or Tajín for the rim (optional)
Instructions
- If using a salted rim, run a lime or grapefruit wedge around the edge of a tall glass and dip it into salt or Tajín.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the tequila, elderflower cordial, lime juice, and grapefruit juice. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your prepared glass with ice, strain the drink in, and top with soda water.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or twist before serving.
Shopping List
100ml tequila blanco
50ml elderflower cordial
50ml fresh lime juice
150ml fresh pink grapefruit juice (or good-quality bottled)
Soda water
Ice
Grapefruit wedge or twist
Salt or Tajín for the rim (optional)
Approximate values per serving
Ingredients and sourcing tips
Where to buy ingredients for Elderflower Paloma
Use a good-quality tequila blanco – look for 100% agave on the label for a smoother finish. Elderflower cordial is widely available in supermarkets and farm shops, or you can make your own if it’s in season. Fresh pink grapefruit juice is best, but high-quality bottled juice works well if fresh is unavailable. Tajín is a Mexican seasoning made from chilli, lime, and salt and can be found online, in Mexican grocers, and in some larger supermarkets.
Elderflower Paloma substitutions and seasonal swaps
For a boozier drink, try adding a floral liqueur like St-Germain instead of the elderflower cordial (adjusting for sweetness). For a less bitter finish, use blood orange juice instead of grapefruit. If you can’t find Tajín, either use regular salt or mix equal parts flaky sea salt with mild chilli powder and a little finely grated lime zest. For a stronger, shorter drink, omit the soda water and serve over ice in a rocks glass.
Kitchen notes
Tips and pitfalls: Shake vigorously for a properly chilled and slightly aerated finish. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold – about 15 seconds. The final drink should be lightly sparkling with a balanced sweetness and bitterness. If using Tajín, don’t overload the rim – too much will overpower the floral notes.
Make ahead and storage: You can pre-mix the tequila, cordial, lime juice, and grapefruit juice in a jug a few hours ahead. Store chilled, then shake with ice and top with soda just before serving.
Leftovers: Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice will keep for 2–3 days in the fridge. It can be added to sparkling water for a non-alcoholic refresher, used in vinaigrettes or salad dressings, or frozen into ice cubes for future cocktails. Elderflower cordial works in sparkling water, prosecco spritzes, iced tea, or drizzled over fresh fruit and desserts.
Serving suggestions
Presentation ideas: Serve in a tall highball glass with plenty of ice and a salted or Tajín rim for a touch of spice. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or twist for colour.
What to serve with it: Pairs beautifully with light snacks like tortilla chips and salsa, fresh salads or a summery ceviche.
Dietary swaps: This recipe is naturally dairy free and vegan, as long as your cordial and soda water don’t contain animal-derived additives. Naturally gluten free – just ensure your tequila brand is certified gluten free.
