Elderflower Paloma

Prep time: 5 minutes 

Serves: 2

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.

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

To garnish

Grapefruit wedge or twist

Salt or Tajín for the rim (optional)

Method

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.

Kcals	Carbohydrates	Sugar	UK Alcohol Units
170	14g	13g	1.5

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.