World of Cocktail Shakers

If you make drinks at home, a cocktail shaker is most often used to shake up those mixed beverages. I consider it a bar staple and must have. So, what is a cocktail and what is the best one to have with your home bar supplies? Sounds crazy to be asking such questions but I have been asked quite often what I use and what is available. Welcome to the World of Cocktail Shakers.

First, there is no need to spend your bank account on a cocktail shaker. An inexpensive one will work just fine. And a word of advice, don’t get caught up in designer names and brands. There is no need, rest assured. Basically, there are two types of cocktail shakers, the Boston Shaker and the Cobbler Cocktail Shaker.

World of Cocktail Shakers

Boston Shakers consist of a smaller cup used to build your cocktail and then inverted into a larger cup.The two are connected securely, shake and unseal. A separate strainer is used to pour your cocktail into a serving glass.

Cobbler Shakers consist of three parts: a bottom cup, top half with a built-in strainer and a cap which fits over strainer. Build your cocktail in the bottom, place strainer and cap on. Shake and pour your cocktail into awaiting serving glass of your choice.

The Cobbler Shaker is most common but can be difficult to use because the parts don’t always fit together well. There can be a tendency for leakage and becoming hard to open once cold and wet. The convenience of a strainer included makes Cobbler Shakers a popular choice since most standard ones hold about 18 ounces. This is the perfect size for making one to two cocktails at a time and allows the ability to muddle ingredients easily along with adding plenty of ice.

World of Cocktail Shakers

Boston Shakers will take some practice to get use to. They usually have a capacity of about 28 ounces which is quite large yet comfortable to hold with two hands. Reinforced with an extra layer of metal to create a weighted bottom that keeps the shaker from tipping over. Tempered glass makes this shaker perfect for mixing, stirring, muddling, and cleaning a breeze. When purchasing a Boston Shaker make sure the glass and cup can be put together and taken apart easily. The glass should sit low in the cup to prevent leakage.

When purchasing cocktail shakers think about durability, cleanup, comfort, ease of use and security, ensuring a long period of use. Price is an important factor as well as, ranging from as low as $8.99 to upwards of $40.00. As I mentioned earlier, no need to spend big money. More expensive does not make for a better shaker. Shop around until you find just the right one. The Cobbler Shaker I use I’ve owned for 20 years and it’s still going strong. Visit your local kitchen/bar supply stores or online to find your perfect cocktail shaker. It’s my hope to have made purchasing a new cocktail shaker or replacing an old one much easier.

In conclusion, as Summertime approaches, nothing cures what ails you like a fantastic cocktail. Have some fun with family and friends and shake up their cocktail favorites or better yet put your bartender skills to work and create new favorites.

Happy Shaking!