Adding salt to cocktails is becoming a popular trend among bartenders, who argue that it enhances flavor in much the same way it does in cooking. From rimming glasses with flavored salts to using saline solutions, salt offers depth and brightness to various spirits.

Renowned mixologists, like Mariena Mercer Boarini of Wynn North America, emphasize how salt can elevate a drink’s profile. For instance, creative salt blends that include ingredients such as cilantro and lemon can complement specific cocktails. A saline solution, made from one part salt to four parts water, provides a more consistent and effective way to season drinks without the risk of sinking to the bottom as granular salt does.

Salt affects cocktails in several ways: it can sharpen citrus flavors, reduce bitterness, and improve mouthfeel. This makes it a versatile tool in crafting drinks like Margaritas and Negronis. According to veteran bartender Ivy Mix, the incorporation of salt can transform an ordinary cocktail into something truly special, enhancing flavors that might otherwise be overshadowed.

Additionally, some spirits, such as Fishers Gin, are crafted with sea salt-infused botanicals, further reflecting the trend toward salinity in the beverage industry.

For home bartenders hesitant to use salt, it’s recommended to start small. A few drops of saline solution in a cocktail can dramatically improve its taste without making it overly savory. By experimenting with this underappreciated ingredient, anyone can achieve cocktail-bar level drinks from the comfort of their own home.