Paloma

What it tastes like

Bright, citrus-forward, a long, fizzy finish. Overall it reads as refreshing.

Ingredient tips

• Use fresh lime — bottled juice tastes flat and slightly bitter against the spirit.
• Open mixers as late as possible and pour gently — flat fizz makes a tall drink feel tired.

When to serve it

Serve on a warm afternoon, with plenty of ice.

Common mistakes

• Over-stirring. Stop once the outside of the mixing glass is cold and frosted — usually 20–30 seconds.
• Reaching for bottled juice. Fresh-squeezed citrus is the single biggest quality jump you can make.
• Pouring mixers in early or hard. Add them last, down the side of the glass, to keep the fizz.

Variations to try

• Swap the tequila for mezcal for a smokier, more savoury version.
• Top with tonic water instead of soda for a drier, more bitter finish.
• No lime? Try Lemon as a substitute (changes the flavour slightly).