Do I Need a Cocktail Shaker?

If you have any interest in mixing up cocktails at home, you’re definitely going to need a shaker.  Shaking is a crucial step when making many of the world’s most popular cocktails. That’s right, margaritas, daiquiris, Moscow mules, and many of the world’s most beloved cocktails require shaking to be made properly.

Why shake cocktails?

Shaking a cocktail with ice accomplishes three significant objectives. First, it fully mixes and emulsifies the ingredients and achieves a uniform consistency. Secondly, as the cocktail is shaken, the ice chills it and melts, diluting the drink slightly. And Finally, as the ice moves back and forth in the shaker with the ingredients, it introduces tiny air bubbles into the drink, which improves the texture of the cocktail and helps soften the bite of citrus juice. If not properly shaken, cocktails just don’t look or taste right.

What kind of cocktails need to be shaken?

The rule of thumb used by most bartenders is that if a cocktail contains citrus juice, dairy, or egg whites, it needs to be shaken and not stirred.  Vigorously shaking cocktails with these ingredients instead of stirring them ensures that they are all properly mixed together. Stirring a cocktail just doesn’t agitate the ingredients enough to form a properly homogenous mixture.

What are the different styles of shakers?

The two most common styles of cocktail shaker are the Boston shaker and the Cobbler Shaker.  The style of cocktail shaker that most drinkers are familiar with is the Boston shaker. This style of shaker is comprised of two metal tins, one smaller than the other that fit together and create a seal. They’re a simple tool that’s easy to clean, which is why they’re what professional bartenders tend to prefer behind the bar. The only complication is they require a separate strainer for straining the drink.

The second most popular type of shaker is the cobbler shaker. Instead of two tins, the cobbler shaker consists of one large tin, a lid with a built-in strainer, and a cap that fits over the strainer when shaking. Cobbler shakers are often preferred by beginners because the strainer is already part of the shaker. No need to purchase a separate strainer. It’s a great choice for people who may just want to dip their toes into the world of mixology before diving in headfirst