13 Best Salt and Sugar for 2024
Adding a rimming salt or sugar to a cocktail or drink can really spice up the flavor and add some fun texture and dimension! Whether it’s a classic margarita or a custom cocktail creation, a salt or sugar rim can take your drink to the next level. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? In this article, we’ll explore the 13 best salt and sugar rims of 2023, along with a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision.
Buyer’s Guide
Before we dive into the best rimming salts and sugars, let’s go over some key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your cocktails and drinks.
Salt or Sugar?
The first decision you’ll need to make is whether to use salt or sugar for your rim. Consider the flavor profile of your drink and your personal preferences. Salt adds a savory element, while sugar adds sweetness. Some cocktails and recipes are better suited to one or the other, so choose accordingly.
Flavored or plain?
Next, decide if you want to stick with classic plain salt or sugar, or if you’d like to experiment with flavored options. Flavored salts and sugars can add an extra layer of complexity to your cocktails. However, if you’re unsure of the flavor you want or plan to make a variety of drinks, it’s safer to stick with plain salt or sugar.
Type of salt or sugar
There are several types of salt and sugar that work well for rimming glasses. Here are some options:
Table salt
Kitchen salts, such as kosher salt, can be used as a basic rimming option. Make sure the salt isn’t too coarse, as it won’t adhere well to the glass. Avoid iodized or sea salt as they may not complement the flavors of your drink.
Granulated Sugar
Plain granulated sugar is a versatile option for rimming cocktail glasses. It’s readily available and inexpensive. If desired, you can crush the sugar to create a finer powder for better adhesion.
Specialty Salts
Specialty salts, such as smoked salt, Himalayan salt, and gray salt, can add unique flavors to your drinks. Consider the flavor profile of your cocktail and choose a specialty salt that pairs well with it.
Margarita Salt
Margarita salt is a popular choice for margaritas and other cocktails. It usually comes in a large grain form and is sold in rimming trays, making it easy to apply to your glass. Flavoured and coloured margarita salts are available to suit different cocktail recipes.
Speciality Sugars
Similar to specialty salts, specialty sugars are available for rimmed glasses. Flavoured sugars, such as cinnamon sugar or cranberry sugar, can enhance the flavour of your drink. Check the compatibility of the flavour of the sugar with your chosen cocktail.
Cocktail Sugar
Cocktail sugars are designed specifically for garnishing drinks and come in a variety of colours and flavours. These sugars are formulated to adhere well to the rim of the glass without being too coarse or too fine. They add visual appeal and extra flavour dimensions to your cocktails.
Quantity
Think about how much rim salt or sugar you’ll need. If you plan to make rimmed cocktails frequently, a larger quantity may be appropriate. For occasional use or experimentation, smaller bags of different types of salt or sugar may be a good option.
Additional trays
Some rimming salts and sugars come with rimming trays for convenient use. These trays eliminate mess and waste, making the rimming process easier and more efficient.
The 13 best rimming salts and sugars
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of what to look for in rimming salts and sugars, let’s explore the top 13 options available in 2024:
- Rokz Triple Berry Cocktail Sugar: This sugar blend combines strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry flavors, adding a delightful taste and a pop of pink color to your cocktails. It comes in a 5 oz. package and is suitable for cosmopolitans and berry-Coladas.
- Lava Premium Margarita Lime Salt: Made with a blend of lime juice crystals and sea salt, this salt is perfect for margaritas and other citrusy cocktails. It is sold in a convenient rimming container with an easy-to-use foam-lined screw-on lid.
- Twang-A-Rita Cocktail Rimming Salt Blend: This collection includes three different flavored salts for rimming cocktails. It offers a variety of tastes to enhance your drinks and comes in a practical package.
- Rokz Cranberry Cocktail Sugar Rimmerz: With a delicious cranberry flavor, this sugar adds a tangy twist to your cocktails. It is perfect for rimming glasses and comes in a convenient package.
- Snowy River Orange Cocktail Rimmer: This orange-colored rimming sugar adds a vibrant touch to your cocktails. It provides a burst of citrus flavor and is visually appealing.
- The Spice Lab Glass Cocktail Rimmer: Specifically designed for Bloody Marys, this cocktail rimmer is perfect for adding a savory touch to your drinks. It is made with high-quality ingredients and ensures a flavorful rim.
- Barrel Roll Bar Essentials Cocktail Rimmers Citrus Margarita Salt: This tangy citrus-flavored margarita salt is a great option for those who enjoy a zesty twist in their drinks. It adds a refreshing element to margaritas and other citrus-based cocktails.
- The Spice Lab Cinnamon Sugar Glass Cocktail Rimmer: Made with a blend of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves, this rimmer provides a warm and aromatic flavor profile. It is ideal for drinks that pair well with cinnamon and spices.
- Collins Celery Salt Rimmer: If you’re looking for a celery salt option, this rimmer is a great choice. It adds a unique and savory taste to your cocktails, particularly those that benefit from a hint of celery flavor.
- Demitri’s Bacon Rim Shot: For those who enjoy a savory bacon flavor, this rim shot is a must-try. It adds a distinctive smoky and savory touch to your cocktails, creating a unique taste experience.
- Viva Doria Hawaiian Black Lava Sea Salt: This 100% natural, vegan, and gluten-free rimming salt offers a visually striking appearance with its black lava color. It adds a touch of elegance and a subtle saltiness to your cocktails.
- Morton Kosher Salt: A classic choice for rimming glasses, Morton Kosher Salt is a reliable option for those who prefer a simple and traditional salt rim. It provides a balanced saltiness without overpowering the flavors of your cocktails.
- Happy Belly White Sugar Granulated: This classic sugar rim option is versatile and widely available. It works well for a variety of cocktails and adds a touch of sweetness to your drinks.
FAQS
What is the purpose of salt and sugar in cocktails?
Rimming salts and sugars add flavour, texture and visual appeal to cocktails. They enhance the overall drinking experience by complementing the flavours of the drink and providing a unique sensory element.
Can I use ordinary table salt or sugar to rim glasses?
While you can use ordinary table salt or sugar in a pinch, it’s recommended that you opt for special rimming salts and sugars. These products are designed to adhere better to glass rims and provide a more balanced flavour profile for cocktails.
How do I apply rimming salt or sugar to a glass?
To rim a glass, moisten the rim with a slice of citrus or water. Then dip the moistened rim into a shallow bowl of rimming salt or sugar. Gently swirl the glass to ensure even coverage and shake off any excess.
Are there alternatives to rimming salt and sugar?
If you prefer a different texture or flavour, you can explore alternative options such as crushed biscuits, flavoured powders or even edible glitter to rim your glasses. These alternatives can add a creative twist to your cocktails.
Can rimming salts and sugars be used for soft drinks?
Absolutely! Rimming salts and sugars can also be used to enhance the flavour of non-alcoholic beverages. Consider rimming glasses for mocktails, lemonades or flavoured iced teas to add an extra touch of indulgence.
How should I store rimming salts and sugars?
It’s best to store rimming salts and sugars in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Proper storage will help maintain their texture and flavour for a longer period of time. Avoid exposure to moisture, heat or direct sunlight to prevent clumping or deterioration.