Crafthouse Paloma

Crafthouse Paloma is a ready-to-drink canned or bottled take on the paloma, the Mexican highball built on grapefruit and agave spirit. The details supplied for this product don't list its ABV, base spirit, or ingredients, so check the label for those. Palomas in this format typically taste of grapefruit, with a bitter-sweet citrus edge, a squeeze of lime, and a dry, lightly mineral finish. Expect fizz, since the classic is built with grapefruit soda. Serve it cold. Chill it thoroughly in the fridge, or pour over plenty of ice, because a paloma that warms up turns sweet and flat quickly. Pouring it over ice is better than drinking it straight from the container, since the glass opens up the citrus aroma and lets you control dilution. Fill a tall highball or Collins glass with fresh ice, pour gently to keep the carbonation, and garnish with a grapefruit wedge or a lime wheel. A salted rim is the traditional touch and suits the bitter grapefruit well. Run a lime wedge around the rim and dip it in coarse salt before adding ice. It's a straightforward drink, so it needs little work, but a few additions suit the style. A fresh squeeze of lime sharpens the citrus. A splash of extra tequila or mezcal, if you keep either at home, adds depth and a little smoke. Don't add much else, because the drink works best uncomplicated. For food, palomas go well with the dishes the style comes from. Try tacos al pastor, grilled fish with lime, ceviche, guacamole and chips, or anything with chile heat, where the acidity and bitterness cut through richness. It also works with grilled chicken and salty snacks.