Cranberry Paloma

The holidays usually usher in seasonal cocktails with cozy spices to stay warm in the winter. But some people (myself included) prefer bright, refreshing beverages all year long. If you love sipping on margaritas and palomas but want a more festive recipe to enjoy during the holiday season, meet the cranberry paloma.

Just like a classic paloma, this version is made with a base of tequila and grapefruit. But it gets a boost of sweetness and tartness with the addition of cranberry juice cocktail. This sweetened cranberry-based beverage replaces the need for sugary sodas or simple syrup. Bonus: It adds a gorgeous red hue to your glass.

The type of tequila you use is ultimately up to you, but this recipe recommends either reposado or blanco tequila. Reposado tequila is aged for up to a year, typically in oak barrels, and takes on a warm sweetness with notes of vanilla and caramel. It’s a great choice for cocktails (especially when grapefruit is involved) because the smoothness balances out the tart and bright citrus.

Blanco tequila, on the other hand, is for people who want to double down on the brightness. It’s barely aged, if even aged at all, so it retains the sharp, vegetal flavor of the agave plant. This recipe works well with either option, so it all comes down to personal preference and what you already have on your bar cart.

Did you try making this? Let us know how it went in the comments!