LOUISVILLE, KY (April 13, 2026) — As the excitement of the Spring Meet returns to Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”), Tequila Herradura – the official tequila of the Kentucky Derby® – and Q MIXERS introduce a new cocktail: the Paddock Paloma – a bright, refreshing take on the classic Paloma, crafted for both trackside celebrations and at-home entertaining.
Positioned as a modern counterpart to the event’s most iconic serves, the Paddock Paloma brings a fresh, tequila-driven perspective to the track and complements the brand’s signature cocktail, the Horseshoe Margarita. Built around the expressive character of Tequila Herradura Reposado and crafted with Q MIXERS Grapefruit Soda, the Paddock Paloma blends the flavors of fresh grapefruit, lime and subtle sweetness into a bright, citrus-forward serve that works as seamlessly from afternoon races to evening celebrations.
Each Paddock Paloma is finished with a custom Herradura jockey silks cocktail pick, inspired by the bold colors and patterns worn by jockeys. Available exclusively at all Tequila Herradura’s trackside bars inside Churchill Downs, the limited-edition garnishes add a collectible touch—inviting guests to choose their silks, capture the moment and enjoy a subtle nod to the spirit of the racetrack.
“We wanted to create a cocktail that feels right at home at the Kentucky Derby — something fresh, approachable, and visually distinctive,” said Kelley Kerger, Senior Brand Manager of Tequila Herradura. “Using Tequila Herradura Reposado brings a subtle depth and smoothness that elevates the Paddock Paloma, giving it just enough character to stand out amongst a strong line up of race day cocktails.”
The introduction of the Paddock Paloma further reinforces Tequila Herradura’s presence at one of the most celebrated sporting stages in the world, offering a fresh alternative to traditional Kentucky Derby serves while honoring the craftsmanship and heritage behind the spirit.
“At Q MIXERS, we’re focused on elevating the drinking experience through clean, high-quality ingredients and balanced flavor,” said Betsy Frost, CEO of Q MIXERS. “The Paddock Paloma is a perfect example of that — a cocktail that’s crisp, fresh, and built to shine in a high-energy setting like the Kentucky Derby.”
Q MIXERS serves as the “Premium Mixer of the Kentucky Derby” at Churchill Downs. Q MIXERS will be available at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week and throughout the race meets at select locations like Turf Club, Stakes Room, and Millionaires Row.
Paddock Paloma Recipe
- 1 part Herradura Reposado
- 2 parts Q SPARKLING GRAPEFRUIT
- Garnish with lime
Method:
Build in a highball or rocks glass over ice. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish:
Lime wedge and Herradura jockey silks cocktail pick
From the paddock to the grandstand, the Paddock Paloma is poised to become a new visual and sensory signature of Kentucky Derby weekend — a cocktail that captures the spirit of the race in every glass.
