Paloma Sunrise

Once summer rolls around I’m in full relaxation mode, which includes sipping on simple tequila cocktails at night. The timeless margarita may be the first tequila cocktail you think of, but that isn’t the inspiration for what I’m serving this summer. I’m taking a tip from two other tequila cocktails: a classic paloma and a tequila sunrise. The former is a pretty pink cocktail made with grapefruit juice and a squeeze of lime, and topped off with bubbles, while the latter is a fruit-forward brunch beverage that’s all about the gorgeous gradient of color. This recipe for a paloma sunrise combines the best parts of both cocktails into a light and refreshing cocktail that tastes as good as it looks. 

• The flavor is fruity and refreshing. This cocktail is perfectly balanced so that it isn’t too sweet or strong. The grapefruit soda finish keeps it light and refreshing.
• It’s so pretty. I’ll never get over how simple it is to make beautiful cocktails at home. The gradation of grenadine, grapefruit juice and tequila, and fizzy soda looks just like a beachside sunrise.

• Grapefruit juice: Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice gives this drink the most dramatic appearance, but bottled juice can also be used. 
• Tequila: Use 100% agave tequila blanco for this cocktail. Blanco, or silver, tequila is clear and unaged.
• Lime juice: I always include freshly squeezed lime juice in classic palomas, because it adds another note of citrus flavor.
• Grenadine: Grenadine is a non-alcoholic sweet-tart pomegranate syrup that sits on the bottom of the glass and provides the most intense layer of color.
• Grapefruit soda: I prefer Jarritos grapefruit soda, but other brands like Squirt and Fever Tree also sell this citrusy soda.

To prepare a big batch (12 servings) of paloma sunrises for brunches or parties, combine 3 cups silver (blanco) tequila, 3 cups red or pink grapefruit juice, and 6 ounces lime juice in a pitcher. Stir in 1 2/3 cups cold water to replace the ice dilution in individually shaken cocktails, and chill. You’ll also need 6 ounces grenadine and 3 cups grapefruit soda for serving the cocktails. 

To serve, pour 1/2 ounce grenadine into each ice-filled glass, then top with 3 ounces of the tequila mixture and 2 ounces grapefruit soda.