In bars around the world, pickle juice has become a surprising favorite. Once a secret among seasoned drinkers, it’s now a popular choice in many places.
Imagine a man downing Wild Turkey bourbon. Add a shot of the briny liquid, and he’s ready for rum, tequila, and more. It’s like a quick remedy for a tough cold—refreshing and oddly satisfying.
The Origins in Bars
Pickle juice has roots in the drinking world. The Russians were early adopters, but it was a Brooklyn bar that made it famous. After long nights of drinking, bartenders snacked on sour pickles. Patrons followed suit, and soon the drink became a whiskey companion. 
This led to the “Pickleback”—a shot of brine taken before or after whiskey. The salty juice balances whiskey’s strong flavor, making it smoother. While any whiskey works, cheap bourbons are the traditional choice. Some say high-end whiskeys can work too.
The salty liquid neutralizes alcohol’s harshness, offering relief while keeping the celebratory spirit. Despite some negative reactions—calling it “morning-after horse urine”—many swear by it for a better drinking experience.
Health Benefits
Beyond its quirky role in bars, this tangy drink is known for health benefits. It’s a great rehydrator, thanks to high sodium and potassium. After drinking, alcohol dehydrates the body, but the electrolytes in pickle brine help restore balance. Dr. Oz even endorsed it as a hangover remedy, claiming it can help both before and after drinking.
The Global Rise
Pickle juice spread quickly from New York. In 2011, London’s Pitcue BBQ began offering it, becoming a big supplier of McClure’s Pickles. Similarly, the Burlington Hotel in Cheltenham serves multiple varieties, even surpassing their food offerings.
It’s not just the U.S. and U.K.—Australia, Japan, and the Czech Republic have also embraced the trend, making it a global phenomenon.
Pickle Juice in Pop Culture
Pickle juice has made its way into pop culture, appearing in Spider-Man comics and Seth Rogen films. Its rise shows how quirky traditions can unite people over something as simple as a shot of brine. For some, it’s an essential drink accessory; for others, it’s a fun, unexpected addition.
The Final Word
Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or new to the scene, this briny liquid is worth trying. It might seem odd at first, but once you experience the smooth, salty flavor with whiskey, you might be hooked. And if you’re worried about hangovers, this tangy remedy can help. While the best advice is “don’t drink to excess,” it can certainly ease the aftermath.
