Salty Dog

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice—bottled juice lacks the brightness and tartness that define this drink.
• Chill your glass before serving to keep the drink cold longer and protect the salt rim.
• Shake vigorously with ice for 10–15 seconds to achieve proper dilution; this balances the spirit and citrus acidity.
• Taste the grapefruit juice first—if it's very tart, reduce the salt proportion slightly to avoid overbalancing.

Substitutions

• Gin → Vodka (creates a lighter, less botanical version)
• Grapefruit juice → Pink grapefruit juice (sweeter, slightly softer profile)

Storage & make-ahead

Mix and serve immediately; do not prepare ahead as dilution and carbonation loss will degrade flavor.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · barware (jigger, bar spoon, strainer)

What kind of salt should I use for the rim?

Coarse sea salt or kosher salt works best; it adheres better than table salt and dissolves more slowly on the rim.

Can I make this without fresh grapefruit juice?

Fresh juice is strongly recommended for flavor, but unsweetened bottled grapefruit juice works in a pinch—avoid sweetened varieties.

How do I salt the rim?

Rim a chilled glass with salt by running a cut lemon or lime around the edge, then dipping into a shallow dish of coarse salt.

What gin pairs best with this drink?

London Dry style gins work well; avoid heavily botanical gins that may compete with the grapefruit tartness.

Should this drink be shaken or stirred?

Shake with ice and strain into a salted rocks glass filled with fresh ice for proper dilution and chill.