What Does Licking Salt After a Shot Do?
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                The ritual of licking salt after a shot, most famously with tequila, is a widespread practice believed to soften the burn of the liquor. While it seems simple, this three-step process of salt, shot, and citrus is grounded in taste science and historical tradition.  Understanding the purpose reveals how taste perception can be manipulated for a smoother drinking experience.