Cocktail Shaker

A sealed container used to mix, chill, and dilute cocktails by shaking them vigorously with ice.

Three main types exist: the Boston shaker (two-piece, preferred by professionals), the Cobbler shaker (three-piece with built-in strainer), and the French shaker (two-piece with a more elegant design). Shaking aerates the drink, rapidly chills it, and provides proper dilution. A good shake typically lasts 10-15 seconds, enough to bring the drink to optimal temperature without over-diluting.

💡 Pro Tips

• Shake until the outside of the shaker frosts over
• Point the smaller tin away from guests when opening
• Dry shake first (without ice) for drinks with egg white

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not sealing the shaker properly before shaking
• Shaking carbonated ingredients
• Over-shaking delicate ingredients

📚 Related Terms

Fine Strainer

A small mesh strainer used in conjunction with a Hawthorne strainer to remove fine particles like ice chips, fruit pulp, and egg white foam from cocktails.

Shake

A cocktail mixing method where ingredients are vigorously combined with ice in a sealed shaker to rapidly chill, dilute, and aerate the drink.

Strainer

A bar tool that separates ice and solid ingredients from the liquid cocktail when pouring into a serving glass.