When you think of Christmas movies, this absolutely tops the list. Boris Karloff narrating, Chuck Jones directing, and a sweet & loving puppy? SIGN. ME. UP. There are certainly years that I have resembled the Grinch more than Buddy from Elf. This year the only thing Grinch that I am feeling this season is this delicious cocktail.
This cocktail, The Cuddly Cactus Paloma, is our holiday version of the classic tequila cocktail, the Paloma. The Paloma was originally just two ingredients, tequila and grapefruit soda (Squirt or Jarritos). It was not on the cocktail scene until after the 1950’s, when the grapefruit soda was originally bottled. Since then it has had lots of variations. We have used our 3 Herb Gracious Grapefruit syrup to give this cocktail a savory addition.
Cuddly Cactus Paloma
1.5 oz reposado tequila
1 oz grapefruit juice
1 oz Gracious Grapefruit Syrup
2 sage leaves
Wedge of lime
Club Soda or Tonic Water
In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sage leaves and lime wedge. Add tequila, juice, syrup and ice. Shake until very cold. Strain onto fresh ice and top with club soda or grapefruit sparkling water. Garnish with a grapefruit peel or a fresh wedge of lime.
Actual footage of me after one or two of this Paloma.