Hey there! Choosing the right bar shaker might not seem like a big deal, but it actually plays a significant role in making delicious and well-mixed drinks. Just like using the right tools when you’re building something or playing a sport, using the right bar shaker can help you create better cocktails.
Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a bar shaker:
- Ease of use: Some bar shakers are easier to use than others, especially for beginners. For example, a Cobbler shaker has a built-in strainer, which makes it simpler to use than a Boston shaker, where you need to use a separate strainer.
- Size: Bar shakers come in various sizes. You’ll want to choose one that can hold enough liquid for the drinks you want to make. Larger shakers are good for making multiple drinks at once, while smaller ones are more suitable for individual servings.
- Material: Bar shakers are typically made of stainless steel, glass, or plastic. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, but it can be a bit heavy. Glass looks nice and lets you see the mixing process, but it can break easily. Plastic is lightweight and affordable, but it might not last as long.
- Seal: A good seal is important to prevent spills while you’re shaking your drink. Some shakers have a tighter seal than others, which can affect how easy they are to open after shaking. You’ll want a shaker that has a reliable seal but isn’t too difficult to open.
- Style: While the function of a shaker is most important, you might also want to consider how it looks. There are many different designs and colors available, so you can find one that fits your personality and preferences.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a bar shaker that’s perfect for your needs and will help you make amazing cocktails.
| Shaker Type | Description | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | Two-piece shaker (glass & metal) | Versatile, easy to clean | Requires separate strainer | Professionals & experienced home bartenders |
| Cobbler | Three-piece shaker (built-in strainer) | Easy to use, no separate strainer needed | Can be difficult to open, less durable | Beginners & casual home bartenders |
| Parisian | Two-piece shaker (both metal) | Elegant design, good seal | Can be difficult to open | Intermediate & stylish home bartenders |
| Tin-on-Tin | Two metal tins | Lightweight, easy to clean | Requires separate strainer | Professionals & experienced home bartenders |
| Novelty/Specialty | Unique designs & features | Fun & eye-catching | May be less practical | Themed parties & collectors |
Boston Shaker
The Boston shaker is a two-piece shaker consisting of a metal tin and a smaller glass, usually a pint glass, which fits inside the tin. The two parts are used together to create a tight seal for shaking cocktails.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile and suitable for various cocktails | Requires a separate strainer |
| Easy to clean | Can be challenging for beginners to create a proper seal and separate pieces after shaking |
| Preferred by professionals for its efficiency | Glass component is breakable, adding risk of damage |
| Durable, especially when using a metal-on-metal variation |
Best uses and cocktail recommendations:
The Boston shaker is ideal for a wide range of cocktails, including classic shaken drinks like:
- Margarita
- Daiquiri
- Whiskey Sour
- Cosmopolitan
Tips for using a Boston shaker:
- Ensure the glass and tin are properly aligned to create a tight seal before shaking.
- Hold the shaker with one hand on the top and the other on the bottom for a secure grip.
- Shake the cocktail with a vigorous back-and-forth motion for about 10-15 seconds.
- To separate the glass from the tin, gently tap the side of the shaker where the glass and tin meet, then twist and pull apart.
- Use a Hawthorne or Julep strainer to strain the cocktail into your serving glass.
Cobbler Shaker
The Cobbler shaker is a three-piece shaker that includes a metal or glass container, a built-in strainer, and a cap. The built-in strainer allows for easier pouring of the mixed cocktail directly into the serving glass.
Pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use, especially for beginners | Can be difficult to open after shaking |
| No separate strainer needed | Less durable than other shaker types |
| Available in various designs and materials | Not as efficient at chilling drinks as two-piece shakers |
Best uses and cocktail recommendations:
The Cobbler shaker is a great choice for beginners and casual home bartenders. It’s suitable for a variety of classic cocktails, such as:
- Mojito
- Tom Collins
- Gimlet
- Tequila Sunrise
Tips for using a Cobbler shaker:
- Fill the shaker with your cocktail ingredients and ice.
- Firmly place the strainer and cap on the shaker to create a tight seal.
- Hold the shaker with one hand on the top and the other on the bottom for a secure grip.
- Shake the cocktail with a vigorous back-and-forth motion for about 10-15 seconds.
- Remove the cap and pour the cocktail through the built-in strainer into your serving glass.
- If the shaker becomes difficult to open, try running it under warm water to help loosen the seal.
Parisian Shaker
The Parisian shaker, also known as the French shaker, is a two-piece shaker made of metal. It has a sleek, elegant design with a slightly rounded top that fits into the larger bottom container.
Pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant design, visually appealing | Can be difficult to open after shaking |
| Good seal for shaking cocktails | Requires a separate strainer |
| Easy to clean | May not be as beginner-friendly as Cobbler shaker |
Best uses and cocktail recommendations:
The Parisian shaker is an excellent choice for intermediate and stylish home bartenders. It works well for a variety of classic cocktails, including:
- French 75
- Sidecar
- Martini
- Negroni
Tips for using a Parisian shaker:
- Fill the shaker with your cocktail ingredients and ice.
- Align the top and bottom pieces properly to create a tight seal.
- Hold the shaker with one hand on the top and the other on the bottom for a secure grip.
- Shake the cocktail with a vigorous back-and-forth motion for about 10-15 seconds.
- To separate the two pieces after shaking, gently tap the side of the shaker where the top and bottom meet, then twist and pull apart.
- Use a Hawthorne or Julep strainer to strain the cocktail into your serving glass.
Tin-on-Tin Shaker
The Tin-on-Tin shaker is a variation of the Boston shaker and consists of two metal tins of different sizes. The smaller tin fits inside the larger one, creating a tight seal for shaking cocktails.
Pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and easy to handle | Requires a separate strainer |
| Easy to clean and maintain | Can be more challenging for beginners to create a proper seal and separate pieces after shaking |
| Durable and long-lasting |
Best uses and cocktail recommendations:
The Tin-on-Tin shaker is a popular choice among professionals and experienced home bartenders. It works well for various cocktails, including classic shaken drinks like:
- Espresso Martini
- Pisco Sour
- Aviation
- Bramble
Tips for using a Tin-on-Tin shaker:
- Ensure the two tins are properly aligned to create a tight seal before shaking.
- Hold the shaker with one hand on the top and the other on the bottom for a secure grip.
- Shake the cocktail with a vigorous back-and-forth motion for about 10-15 seconds.
- To separate the tins after shaking, gently tap the side of the shaker where the two tins meet, then twist and pull them apart.
- Use a Hawthorne or Julep strainer to strain the cocktail into your serving glass.
Novelty and Specialty Shakers
Novelty and specialty shakers are unique and creatively designed shakers that often feature unusual shapes, colors, or themes. They can be made from various materials and may function similarly to Cobbler or Boston shakers, depending on their design.
Pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun and eye-catching designs | May be less practical or efficient than traditional shakers |
| Great conversation starters | Durability and quality may vary |
| Can make excellent gifts or collector’s items | May require special care or cleaning |
Best uses and cocktail recommendations:
Novelty and specialty shakers are ideal for themed parties, special events, or as gifts for cocktail enthusiasts. They can be used to prepare a variety of cocktails, depending on the specific shaker design and function. Some recommendations include:
- Tiki cocktails, like the Mai Tai or Zombie (for tiki-themed shakers)
- Movie or TV show-themed drinks (for shakers based on popular franchises)
- Signature cocktails that match the theme or design of the shaker
Tips for using novelty and specialty shakers:
- Carefully read any instructions or guidelines that come with the shaker to ensure proper usage and care.
- When using a novelty shaker, make sure to create a tight seal between the components before shaking.
- Shake the cocktail with a vigorous back-and-forth motion for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring a secure grip on the shaker.
- If the shaker has a built-in strainer, pour the cocktail directly into your serving glass. If not, use a separate strainer.
- Clean and store the shaker according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain its appearance and functionality.
Choosing the Right Bar Shaker for You
To choose the right bar shaker, it’s important to assess your needs and preferences and compare different types of shakers. Consider the types of cocktails you want to make, your level of experience, and any specific design or style preferences you may have. Each type of shaker, such as Boston, Cobbler, Parisian, Tin-on-Tin, or novelty/specialty shakers, has its own unique features and pros and cons. By considering these factors, you can find the right shaker for you based on your skill level and usage.
- Beginners and casual home bartenders may find the Cobbler shaker easiest to use, with its built-in strainer and simple design.
- Intermediate and stylish home bartenders may prefer the Parisian shaker for its elegant design and tight seal.
- Professionals and experienced home bartenders may opt for the Boston or Tin-on-Tin shaker, which offer versatility and durability.
- For themed parties or unique gifts, novelty and specialty shakers can add a fun and eye-catching touch.
Ultimately, the right bar shaker for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the factors mentioned above and try out different types of shakers to find the one that works best for you.
Caring for Your Bar Shaker
Cleaning and maintenance tips:
To keep your bar shaker clean and functioning properly, it’s important to wash it after each use. Use warm water and mild dish soap to remove any remaining cocktail ingredients and dry it thoroughly with a towel. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that may damage the shaker’s surface. You can also periodically deep clean your shaker by soaking it in a solution of warm water and white vinegar for 30 minutes before washing.
Proper storage and organization:
To avoid damage or scratches, store your bar shaker in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it separate from other bar tools to avoid scratching or damaging its surface. You can also use a designated storage container or rack to keep your shaker and other bar tools organized and easily accessible.
Ensuring the longevity of your shaker:
To ensure your shaker lasts as long as possible, it’s important to handle it with care. Avoid dropping it or using excessive force when shaking cocktails. Consider investing in a higher quality shaker made of durable materials, like stainless steel. Regular cleaning and maintenance, as well as proper storage and handling, can also help prolong the lifespan of your shaker.
Summary
In this post, we talked about different types of bar shakers used to make cocktails, including the Boston shaker, Cobbler shaker, Parisian shaker, Tin-on-Tin shaker, and novelty/specialty shakers. Each type of shaker has its own unique features and pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one based on your needs and preferences. We also discussed the importance of properly caring for your shaker through regular cleaning, maintenance, and storage to ensure it lasts a long time and works well.