At Bar Company, it’s all about the experience. A cocktail shaker is indispensable for this. Not just because you use it to make cocktails, but because shaking adds flavour, texture and a professional finish. Whether you want to make your own cocktails or would rather watch our bartenders at work, A good cocktail always starts with the right shaker and technique.
How to use a cocktail shaker in 7 steps
Shaking a cocktail may seem simple, but it’s the little details that make all the difference. Follow these steps to create a fresh, well-balanced cocktail just like the ones you’ll find at our bars.
Step 1: Choose the right cocktail shaker
There are various types of cocktail shakers. The Cobbler shaker consists of three parts and is ideal for home use thanks to its built-in strainer. The Boston shaker It consists of two parts and is used by our bartenders for its speed, control and efficiency during events. Which shaker you choose depends on your experience and the volume of drinks to be served.
Step 2: Fill the shaker with ice
Fill the shaker about two-thirds full with fresh ice. Ice not only keeps the drink cool, but also ensures it is diluted to the right consistency. At Bar Company, we always use fresh, hard ice to ensure consistent quality.
Step 3: add the ingredients
Start with juices, syrups or other non-alcoholic ingredients, and then add the spirits. This helps prevent wastage and allows you to control the balance. Measuring accurately ensures that your cocktail tastes the same every time.
Step 4: Close the shaker
Make sure the shaker is tightly closed. With a Cobbler shaker, check that the lid is securely fastened. With a Boston shaker, tap the cups gently together so that a vacuum is created. This prevents leakage whilst shaking.
Step 5: Shake with power and rhythm
Shake the cocktail for about 10 to 15 seconds. Hold the shaker at an angle so that the ice moves freely through the liquid. The sound of the ice changes when the cocktail is perfectly chilled.
Step 6: Pour the cocktail
Carefully open the shaker and pour the cocktail into the appropriate glass. For cocktails served without ice, use a strainer to achieve a clean, professional finish.
Step 7: serve the cocktail
A shaken cocktail should be served straight away. Garnish it discreetly and choose the right glass to enhance the flavour and presentation.
Cocktail shakers in action
Would you rather see the professionals in action? We’d be more than happy to come and shake up some cocktails at your party!
Book our cocktail shakers for your party and enjoy the most delicious cocktails!
Different types of cocktail shaker
For home use, the Cobbler shaker is practical and easy to use. For events and larger groups, our bartenders use Boston or French shakers. These offer greater control and speed, and are suitable for professional use. Each type of shaker has its own advantages, depending on the situation and your level of experience.
Expert tips from our bartenders
The difference between a good cocktail and a great one lies in the details. Chill the glass beforehand so that the cocktail stays at the right temperature for longer. Only shake cocktails containing juice, syrup, cream or egg white. Cocktails made exclusively with spirits are best stirred. Always have a taste and don’t be afraid to make adjustments. Fresh ingredients and good-quality ice make all the difference.
Common mistakes when shaking cocktails
Using too little ice is a common mistake and results in a lukewarm cocktail. Shaking for too short a time is also common, which means the flavours don’t blend properly. Shaking for too long, on the other hand, leads to over-dilution. Furthermore, the importance of measuring is often underestimated. Pouring by eye leads to inconsistent quality. Finally, a poorly sealed shaker is a sure-fire way to make a mess.
Make your own cocktails or hire Bar Company
Shaking your own cocktails is fun, but at an event you mainly want to enjoy yourself. Our professional bartenders will take care of speed, consistent quality and entertainment behind the bar. Using professional shakers, fresh ingredients and our expertise, we create cocktails to suit your event.
Frequently Asked Questions
We mainly use Boston and French shakers because of the speed and control required during events.
On average, a cocktail is shaken for 10 to 15 seconds to cool it down and mix it thoroughly without diluting it too much
We mainly use Boston and French shakers because of the speed and control required during events.
Cocktails containing juice, syrup or egg white are shaken to create body and a light, airy texture. Cocktails containing only spirits are stirred to preserve clarity and texture.
