As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that you can order a Paloma at most bars. The Paloma is a refreshing cocktail that is typically made with tequila and grapefruit soda. However, if the bar doesn't have grapefruit soda, you can still enjoy a Paloma by asking for tequila and grapefruit juice topped off with soda water.
I have been to many bars and have found that grapefruit juice is a common ingredient that most bars have readily available. It is often used in other cocktails such as the Greyhound or the Salty Dog. So, if you're in the mood for a Paloma, you can simply ask the bartender if they have grapefruit juice, and if they do, they will be able to make you a Paloma using that.
Now, it's important to note that the traditional Paloma recipe calls for grapefruit soda, such as Jarritos or Squirt. These sodas have a unique flavor profile and carbonation that adds a special touch to the cocktail. However, if you can't find a bar that has grapefruit soda, using grapefruit juice and soda water can be a suitable alternative.
If you're a bourbon lover and not a fan of tequila, you might be wondering if you can still enjoy a Paloma. While the traditional recipe calls for tequila, there is no hard and fast rule that says you can't use bourbon instead. In fact, experimenting with different spirits is part of the fun of mixology.
I have personally tried making a Paloma with bourbon instead of tequila, and I found that it creates a unique and delicious twist on the classic cocktail. The rich and slightly sweet notes of bourbon complement the tartness of the grapefruit juice beautifully. So, if you're a bourbon lover, don't despair – you can still enjoy a Paloma by simply asking for bourbon and grapefruit juice topped off with soda water.
While the availability of grapefruit soda may vary from bar to bar, grapefruit juice is a common ingredient that most bars have on hand. Whether you prefer the classic tequila-based Paloma or want to switch things up with bourbon, you can enjoy this refreshing cocktail at most bars by simply asking for the ingredients you desire. So, next time you're at a bar, don't hesitate to order a Paloma and savor its vibrant flavors.