Ginger-Spiced Paloma

Just over a week left to wrap up all the holiday preparations - and if you're like me, you need a little boost to get you through the home stretch.

I think tequila has a unique "lifting" effect - perhaps because it reminds me of being on a vacation that involves a beach, a swimming pool and temperatures north of 80 degrees.

Throw in one of my new favorite things - Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur, some of the season's best citrus - fresh ruby red grapefruit and you have a signature cocktail to warm up any holiday gathering.

This recipe created by Nate Wales, general manager of La Paloma in St. Helena, CA, is perfection in a glass.

Ginger-Spiced Paloma

• 1 1/2 oz Herradura Silver
• 1/2 oz Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur
• 1 1/2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/2 oz fresh ginger juice (simple syrup infused with fresh ginger) 

Combine all ingredients and shake with ice. Pour into a Collins glass, and top off with a grapefruit soda like Jarritos Toronja. Garnish with a candied ginger slice and/or wedge of grapefruit.

 Salud!