The Salty Dog is the Greyhound’s bolder cousin — same clean mix of vodka and grapefruit juice, but served with a salted rim for extra zing. This simple addition transforms the cocktail, giving it a savory edge that makes each sip both refreshing and unique.
The Salty Dog first appeared in the 1950s as a variation of the Greyhound cocktail. The salted rim was introduced to soften the tartness of grapefruit juice and add a touch of complexity. Over the years, it became a popular poolside and beachside cocktail, celebrated for its balance of savory and citrus flavors.
The Salty Dog is beloved by cocktail enthusiasts and Hollywood stars alike. Known as a sophisticated yet easygoing drink, it’s been spotted at coastal bars favored by Jack Nicholson and Chelsea Handler. It’s a favorite for those who appreciate a little bite in their refreshment.
The Salty Dog relies on just two main ingredients, so vodka quality is everything. Illadelph Organic Vodka provides a smooth, clean base that balances perfectly with the tartness of grapefruit and the bite of salt. Pure, USDA-certified, gluten-free, and kosher, Illadelph takes this simple cocktail to elegant new heights.
For the ultimate refreshing classic, mix your Salty Dog with Illadelph Vodka and taste the difference.
A Salty Dog is a refreshing vodka (or gin) cocktail made with grapefruit juice and served in a glass with a salted rim. The salt adds a savory contrast that enhances the citrus flavor.
The drinks are almost identical — but the salted rim turns a Greyhound into a Salty Dog. This simple change brings a whole new dimension to the drink.
A smooth, clean vodka like Illadelph Organic Vodka elevates the grapefruit flavor and keeps the finish crisp without bitterness.
Salt softens the tart, sometimes bitter notes of grapefruit juice and adds a savory balance. It also makes the citrus taste even brighter.
Pink or ruby red grapefruit juice is most common — it’s sweeter and gives a pretty blush color. White grapefruit juice results in a sharper, more bitter cocktail.
A grapefruit wedge or slice is traditional. The drink’s visual appeal comes mainly from the salted rim, so a simple garnish works well.
Moderately strong — it’s usually built with 2 oz of vodka and a generous amount of juice, making it refreshing but still boozy.
Just a light, even coat. Too much salt can dominate the flavor, while a thin rim gives the perfect balance.
Yes — pre-mix grapefruit juice and vodka (e.g., Illadelph) in a chilled pitcher. Salt the rims of individual glasses and pour over fresh ice for the best result.
Try flavored salts like smoked sea salt for depth, or add a splash of soda water for bubbles. Rosemary or basil make great aromatic twists.
Absolutely — grapefruit juice with a salted rim and soda water creates a refreshing mocktail with similar personality.
It’s a classic daytime or warm-weather drink, perfect for beach bars, brunches, and poolside parties.
