Salty Dog

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed grapefruit or lemon juice—bottled juice tastes flat and dulls the drink's brightness.
• Shake with ice for at least 10 seconds to properly chill and dilute; this softens the salt's bite and balances flavors.
• Apply salt to only half the rim if you prefer subtlety; guests can sip from either side.

Substitutions

• Grapefruit juice → lemon juice (tangier, less bitter)
• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry gin (similar botanicals)
• Salt → smoked salt or celery salt (variant flavor, same technique)

What juice works best in a Salty Dog?

Fresh grapefruit juice is traditional and provides balanced bitterness; lemon juice offers a sharper, more tart alternative. Avoid bottled or concentrate for best results.

How do you salt the rim?

Wet the rim with a citrus wedge or water, then dip into fine sea salt or kosher salt spread on a small plate. Tap off excess.

Can you make a batch of Salty Dogs?

Yes—combine gin and juice in a pitcher, chill, then pour over ice into salt-rimmed glasses just before serving. Prepare salt rims ahead.

What's a good gin substitute?

Vodka creates a milder version; white rum adds tropical notes. Gin's botanicals are key to the classic profile.

Should this be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice to chill and lightly dilute, then strain into the salt-rimmed glass over fresh ice.