Tequila 101: The Story Behind The Salt And Lemon Tradition

If you have ever taken a shot of tequila, chances are that you go through the ritual of licking salt, tossing it back, and then biting into a lemon wedge. It's just one of those things done in bars across the world and has almost become synonymous with tequila drinking. But have you ever wondered why that is? Is it for fun and games, or is there more to it? Tequila has become popular, not only for the vivid flavours that it possesses but also for its entangled history. While today's tequilas are much smoother, the tradition of salt and lemon has remained. Let's find out why salt and lemon are served with a tequila shot and go deep into the history of this iconic ritual. 

The Origins of Salt and Lemon with Tequila 

According to Sonal C. Holland, India's only Master of Wine, this tequila shot ritual actually dates back to the 1950s. In one of her Instagram posts, Holland explains that during this time, the production of tequila was very different from what it is today. The core ingredient was the piña or heart of the agave plant, mostly harvested before it fully ripened. Thus, the tequilas being produced from such unripened agaves were very harsh and pungent with strong, overwhelming flavours-not easy to drink neat at all. 

Due to this harshness, people started mixing tequila with lime and salt to tone down this quality. The acidity in the lime and the savoury quality of the salt balanced the strong flavours, and mollified the sting of the alcohol, making it much more palatable and smooth. 

With today's advances in modern tequila production, however, today's tequila is considerably smoother than it once was. Holland points out that though the salt-and-lemon tradition continues, a good quality tequila should be sipped and savoured on its own rather than masked by additional flavours. 

Here's What You Should Know About the Tequila Shot Ritual 

Although Tequila drinking has long evolved, the convention of using salt and lemon has remained very popular, especially in social settings. Here are a few reasons why this pairing has remained relevant: 

Enhances the Flavour 

The salt and lime bring out the natural flavours of the tequila. The acidity of the lime cuts through the heaviness of the alcohol, and the salt brings out the subtle sweetness in it. Together, they are a counterbalance that elevates the drinking experience and adds dimension to the tequila's taste profile. For those who might be unfamiliar with tequila, this could make that first sip much easier to take. 

Reduces the Burn 

Tequila has long been described as burning, especially when going straight and highly proofed. The salt will blunt that burn by serving as a sort of sensory distraction from the harsh upfront attack of the alcohol. Furthermore, with a squeeze of lime acidity, it soothes the throat and makes the tequila glide much more smoothly down the hatch. For many, this is the most practical reason to follow the salt and lemon ritual. 

Hides Poor Quality Tequila 

Historically, tequila's popularity exploded in the late 19th century. Houses started mass production and churning out a pretty low-quality spirit. Most of these were bitter and tasted rather unpleasant. Salt and lime were used to mask the flavours of such low-grade spirits and made them palatable. Tequila production has long since improved, but the ritual has stayed on, though most modern tequilas really do not need their flavours masked. 

Serves as a Sensory Diversion 

The salt acts as a sensory distraction, such that taking a tequila shot involves a little more entertainment than the simple, mental focus on just how much the drink will burn on the way down. This clever little trick thus becomes a psychological diversion from the raw sensation of the tequila and, therefore, much more pleasant and non daunting for those who do not regularly consume tequila. 

While a salt-and-lemon ritual does have its ring, the true believers in tequila insist on its being neat. As Sonal Holland points out, the finest tequilas being produced today require sipping. Rich reposado or smooth añejo-sipping is the best way to enjoy those complex flavours modern tequila can have. A good quality tequila may bring in notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and even citrus which get masked if it is thrown down as a quick shot. 

At the end of the day, how to enjoy tequila is fully a matter of personal preference. Whether more into the traditional salt-and-lemon shot or savouring neat tequilas, one is guaranteed a memorable experience by the rich history and dynamic flavours of tequila. Whereas initially, people used salt and lime to soften the harshness of tequila, the tradition now is loved by people to add an element of fun and tradition to tequila drinking. So the next time you take a tequila shot, you will know exactly why you reach for that pinch of salt and wedge of lime!