The Correct Order of Limes, Salt, and Booze: A Tequila Shots Guide

Whether you're a seasoned tequila drinker or just starting your journey, understanding the proper order for lime, salt, and which tequila to use is crucial for an enjoyable shot experience. Let's break down the traditional and more modern approaches to mixing your tequila shots.

The Traditional Order: Salt, Booze, Lime

For those on a budget or sticking to more traditional forms of tequila shots, the order is simple: start with salt, follow it with your tequila, and finish with a squeeze of lime. This method is based on the belief that starting with salt helps cover the bitter taste of the tequila, followed by the smooth flavor of the alcohol itself, and finally, the citrusy notes of the lime to bring everything together.

Why the Traditional Order?

Jose Cuervo Gold's marketing campaign famously suggested that you should "salt, shot, lime" to avoid the bitter taste of their budget tequila. The logic here is that salt helps to suppress the bitterness and salinity of the tequila, making it more palatable. Once you can tolerate this initial saltiness, the alcohol follows. The lime is introduced last because its citrus notes can help mask the lingering taste of the salt and provide a fresh burst of flavor.

Modern Approaches: Salt, Lime, Booze

More sophisticated tequila drinkers might opt for a different order, especially when using high-quality spirits. In this approach, the lime is applied first, followed by the salt, and then the tequila. The idea is that the citrus flavor can help to mask the bitterness of the tequila, and the salt can further enhance this flavor.

Why Start with Lime?

The argument for starting with lime is that the fresh, zesty notes can distract you from the alcohol's potent taste. Jose Cube’s original ad campaign did highlight this method, suggesting that applying a lime first could make the tequila more palatable. Once the lime introduces a citrusy element, the next step is to add the salt, which can then enhance and balance the flavors. Finally, the tequila is poured, providing a more harmonious experience.

Choosing High-Quality Tequila

For those who prioritize taste over following the traditional methods, choosing a good quality tequila is key. A high-quality tequila, such as Peligroso Plata, Espolon, or Milagro, can be enjoyed straight without the need for lime or salt. These spirits are designed to showcase the agave's flavor without being overly fiery or bitter.

Consider trying:

Peligroso Plata - approximately $25.00 Espolon - approximately $25.00 Milagro - approximately $30.00

Alternatively, some top-tier tequilas that don't require any additional flavoring include:

Casa Amigos Reposado Don Julio 1942 Tequila Herradura Barrilito Hedionda Anejo

Conclusion

There is no one "right" way to enjoy a tequila shot. The correct order depends on your personal preferences and the quality of the tequila you are drinking. Whether you start with salt, lime, or opt for a high-quality spirit straight up, the most important thing is to enjoy your drink responsibly and in moderation.

So, stay thirsty and happy sipping!