Salty Dog

Pro tips

• Salt the rim generously but tap off excess—oversalting overpowers the citrus balance.
• Use fresh grapefruit juice (not from concentrate) for maximum brightness and flavor depth.
• Chill the glass with ice before pouring to keep the drink cold longer.
• Stir well with ice to chill and dilute slightly—this mellows the gin's heat.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry gin (Beefeater, Tanqueray) or New Western dry gin (note: flavor profile will shift slightly)
• Grapefruit juice → fresh pink grapefruit juice (note: sweeter, less bitter than white grapefruit)
• Salt rim → sugar rim or no rim (note: removes the signature savory element)

What kind of gin works best for a Salty Dog?

Dry gin (like Old Mr. Boston or similar London Dry style) works best. The botanicals complement grapefruit without competing with the citrus.

How do you salt the rim of a Salty Dog?

Wet the rim with a grapefruit slice or water, then dip into kosher or sea salt. Tap off excess before pouring the drink.

Can you make a Salty Dog ahead of time?

No—mix fresh to order. Pre-made drinks will oxidize and lose carbonation (if using club soda) and citrus brightness within minutes.

What glassware should you use?

Serve over ice in a highball or rocks glass. The salted rim is the signature presentation.