Salty Dog

Pour a generous layer of fine salt onto a small flat plate and spread it evenly. Cut a wedge of fresh grapefruit and run it around the rim of a highball glass to moisten it.

Dip the moistened rim of the glass into the salt, rotating it gently to ensure an even coating all the way around. Shake off any excess salt and set the glass aside.

Fill the salt-rimmed highball glass with ice cubes, adding enough to nearly fill the glass. Be careful not to disturb the salted rim while adding the ice.

Pour 2 ounces of gin or vodka over the ice in the prepared glass. Use a quality spirit for the best flavor result.

Top the glass with approximately 4 ounces of fresh-squeezed or chilled grapefruit juice, filling it nearly to the brim. Fresh grapefruit juice is strongly recommended for optimal flavor.

Stir the drink gently with a bar spoon two or three times to combine the ingredients without disturbing the salted rim. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or slice on the rim if desired and serve immediately.