The Ultimate Paloma Fresh Grapefruit Tequila Cocktail

Prep the glass: rub a lime wedge around the rim, dip the rim in coarse salt on a small plate, then fill the glass with ice and set aside.

Juice and measure: juice lime(s) and grapefruit if using fresh; strain through a fine mesh strainer if you prefer no pulp.

Build (grapefruit soda method - quickest): add tequila, lime juice, and agave directly into the ice-filled glass; stir gently to combine, top with grapefruit soda, garnish and serve. Do not shake the soda.

Build (fresh grapefruit + soda method): add tequila, lime juice, agave, and fresh grapefruit juice to the ice-filled glass, stir gently, then top with chilled club soda and garnish.

Shake (for more chill and integration): in a shaker with ice combine tequila, grapefruit juice (if using), lime juice, and agave; shake 8–10 seconds until chilled, strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice, top with soda, and garnish.

Finish and garnish: add a lime wheel or grapefruit wedge and optionally express a grapefruit peel over the top for aromatics; taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

Pitcher method: combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave in a pitcher; chill, then add chilled club soda to taste just before serving and serve over ice with salted rims and garnish slices.