Myth: Tequila comes with Salt and Lime.

The Truth About Tequila Shots: Salt, Lime, and a Longstanding Ritual

Here’s a familiar story: You’re sitting at a table with friends, enjoying a few casual drinks when, suddenly, a server rolls by with a tray of shots, lime wedges perched on top. That one friend—you know the one—has pulled a sneaky move, slipping in an order while pretending to head to the restroom. Instantly, memories flood your mind: the sharp bitterness of salt, the fiery burn of tequila, the sour punch of lime. It feels like a time-honored tradition—but where did it actually come from?

For many, tequila is synonymous with salt, lime, and regret the next morning, but this isn’t how tequila was meant to be enjoyed. The salt and lime were originally used to mask the harshness of lower-quality tequilas, a practice that became widespread as tequila gained popularity in the U.S. in the mid-20th century. Bars and clubs embraced the "lick, sip, suck" ritual as a fun and engaging way to drink tequila, and it quickly became the default method worldwide.

The True Way to Enjoy Tequila

However, in Mexico—the birthplace of agave spirits—tequila is traditionally sipped neat, much like a fine whiskey. High-quality, 100% agave tequilas are smooth and complex, eliminating the need for salt or lime. Another authentic way to enjoy tequila in Mexico is alongside Sangrita, a palate cleanser that enhances the spirit’s flavors.

Sangrita recipes vary, incorporating fruit juices, syrups, sometimes tomatoes, and even a hint of spice. At Elevated Spirits, we stay true to tradition, crafting a pomegranate and orange juice-based Sangrita that perfectly complements our lineup of boutique tequilas.

Want to try it for yourself? Join our newsletter to be the first to know when our Sangrita bottles become available!