what does in salt mean

[encee]

why do landlords say you have drinks in salt and where does the saying come from?please

[VS Prasad]

In mediaeval England salt was expensive and only affordable by the higher ranks of society. Its value rested on its scarcity. Salt was less easily obtainable in northern Europe than in countries with warmer climates, where it could be obtained more cheaply by the evaporation of seawater. This value is the source of the high symbolic status given to salt in the day-to-day language that originated from England at that period.

At that time the nobility sat at the 'high table' and their commoner servants at lower trestle tables. Salt was placed in the centre of the high table. Only those of rank had access to it. Those less favoured on the lower tables were below (or beneath) the salt.

[encee]

Thank you very much for that.

[Quizmonster]

I can't quite see what the answer above has to do with the phrase 'in salt' in the question, as opposed to 'below the salt' . Generally speaking, 'in salt' means in brine or pickled. Usually, the connection between 'pickled' and 'drinks' is that you have had too many of them!
I have never heard the phrase used, despite decades of pub visiting, but I'd imagine - if a pub andlord says "you have drinks in salt" - that would suggest that they have already been paid for...ie they are (p)reserved... perhaps by friends, and you are entitled to them at no further cost to yourself.

[encee]

both very interesting answers, thank you soooo much.once again thanks for this brill site.somebody always has an answer..

[fletcher.5]

if you go back to the 18th century. landlords would spike ale with salt to enhance the drinkers thirst which would in enhance his income