Salty Dog

Salty Dog

The Salty Dog is a simple cocktail that blends your preferred spirit (gin or vodka) with grapefruit juice.

Salty Dog is the twin brother of the popular Greyhound cocktail, with the only difference being that the Salty Dog is served in a glass with a salty rim.

The Salty Dog was the creation of George Jessel in the 1950s. Jessel wanted to find a way to mask the bitterness of the grapefruit.

  • Total Time:
  • Type: Cocktail
  • Units: 2

Equipment

  • Highball glass

Ingredients

  • 45 ml gin or vodka
  • 90 ml grapefruit juice
  • 1 grapefruit slice (to garnish)
  • salt (for the rim)

Instructions

  1. Fill a saucer with enough salt to coat the entire rim of the glass, then rub the slice of grapefruit around your glass. Holding the glass upside down, dip the wet rim into the salt. Press the glass down gently and twist it around until it is evenly coated.
  2. Fill the glass with ice, then pour the alcohol, and top up with grapefruit juice.
  3. Stir well then garnish with a grapefruit slice.
In Costa Rica grapefruit are commonly cooked to remove the bitterness.

FAQ

What’s the first thing you should do when making a salty dog?

The Salty Dog cocktail gets its name from the salted rim of the highball glass its served in – so you should do that just before mixing the drink.

What is in a Salty Dog cocktail?

A Salty Dog is typically made with gin or vodka and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, served in a salt-rimmed glass.

Why is it called a Salty Dog?

The name comes from the salted rim and its slightly sharp, bracing flavour—like a seasoned sailor’s palate.

What’s the difference between a Salty Dog and a Greyhound?

The only difference is the salted rim. A Greyhound has the same ingredients but is served without salt.

Can I use bottled grapefruit juice?

Freshly squeezed juice is strongly preferred for its brightness and lack of added sugar or preservatives.

Should I use gin or vodka?

Traditionally gin, for a more aromatic profile. Vodka is a cleaner, milder option if preferred.

What kind of salt should be used on the rim?

A fine sea salt or kosher salt works well – avoid iodised table salt which can taste metallic.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.
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