Pomegranate Rosé Paloma

Why pomegranate and grapefruit make a dream team

There’s something magical about the combo of pomegranate and grapefruit. You get tartness from both, but they come from different angles. Grapefruit brings the citrusy zing, while pomegranate adds rich, berry-like depth. Together, they balance out beautifully, creating a cocktail that’s complex but still super easy to sip.

Pomegranate juice also adds a vibrant color that instantly makes the drink look a little fancier. Whether you’re pouring for friends or treating yourself on a Tuesday, this version of the Paloma feels like something special, no effort required.

Also see: Pomegranate Cocktails (12 Delightful Recipes You’ll Love)

Rosé in a Paloma? Yes, and here’s why it works

Rosé might not be a traditional Paloma ingredient, but here it absolutely earns its place. A sparkling rosé adds delicate bubbles, a touch of sweetness, and floral notes that play nicely with the tangy grapefruit and tart pomegranate.

If you’re shopping for a bottle, here’s what to look for:

• Dry sparkling rosé for a more grown-up, crisp finish.
• Semi-sweet rosé if you like your cocktails on the fruitier side.
• Avoid anything too oaky or heavy—light and bright is the vibe.
• Feeling adventurous? A rosé Prosecco or sparkling rosé wine with a splash of berry essence can elevate this cocktail even more.

Read next: 15 Spritz Cocktails to Sip On this Summer

Ways to dress up your Pomegranate Paloma

If you want to add a little wow factor to this already gorgeous drink, here are a few easy ways to take it up a notch:

• Sugar rim with citrus zest: Mix coarse sugar with grapefruit or orange zest for an eye-catching rim that adds flavor with every sip.
• Frozen pomegranate arils: Freeze a handful and use them as edible ice cubes.
• Herbal flair: Garnish with a sprig of rosemary, thyme, or mint to add a fresh aromatic lift.
• Serve in a coupe: Want to class it up? Pour it into a chilled coupe or stemless wine glass for a modern cocktail-bar feel.

Learn more: 10 Fun Paloma Variations for Picture-Perfect Sipping

Food pairings that make it even better

This cocktail is light, slightly tart, and full of sparkle, which means it plays beautifully with rich, salty, and slightly sweet foods. Here’s what we’d serve with it:

• Charcuterie board: Think cured meats, soft cheeses, and tart fruit like berries or dried cranberries.
• Goat cheese crostini: Creamy, tangy, and perfect with pomegranate.
• Grilled chicken skewers with lemon glaze: Light protein and citrus are a perfect match here.
• Roasted beet and feta salad: Earthy and sweet, with a zing of vinegar that mirrors the cocktail’s bite.

More cocktails to try if you like this one

If the Pomegranate Paloma is your kind of pour, you might also enjoy the following sips. They’re fruity, fizzy, and made for good times.

Blood Orange Margarita
French 75
Italian Paloma
Cranberry Mimosa Recipe
Pomegranate Martini