The name “Boston shaker” is an interesting term with a bit of history behind it. In the 19th century, this term referred to the smallest glass that could hold a drink and create a seal with the tin. It was essential for bartenders to have a shaker that could effectively mix and chill cocktails, and the Boston shaker was a popular choice.
However, it is quite intriguing that the first known use of the term “Boston shaker” actually referred to a catalogue listing for an all-metal shaker in Britain during the 1920s. This raises the question of how this name came to be associated with a specific type of shaker.
To understand the origins of the name, we need to delve into the history of cocktail mixing. In the early days of bartending, shakers were not standardized, and various types were used. The two most common types were the Boston shaker and the Cobbler shaker.
The Boston shaker consisted of a metal tin and a glass, which were used together to create a tight seal. This design allowed for efficient mixing and chilling of drinks. On the other hand, the Cobbler shaker had a built-in strainer and typically featured a three-piece design with a metal tin, a lid with a built-in strainer, and a cap to cover the strainer.
The Boston shaker gained popularity due to its simplicity and versatility. Bartenders appreciated its ability to accommodate different drink volumes and its ease of cleaning. It became a staple in bars and was commonly used in Boston, hence the name “Boston shaker.”
Over time, the term “Boston shaker” became widely recognized and associated with this particular style of shaker, regardless of its geographical origin. Bartenders across the globe started using the term to describe the metal tin and glass combination.
The name “Boston shaker” has since become ingrained in cocktail culture and is now synonymous with this style of shaker. It has even led to the creation of various variations and designs, such as weighted tins and different glass sizes, all falling under the umbrella term of the “Boston shaker.”
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have used both the Boston shaker and the Cobbler shaker. While the Cobbler shaker offers the convenience of a built-in strainer, I have found that the Boston shaker provides better control and a more precise pour. Its simplicity and versatility make it my preferred choice when it comes to mixing cocktails.
To summarize, the Boston shaker is called as such because it was commonly used in Boston during the 19th century. Its design, consisting of a metal tin and glass, allowed for efficient mixing and chilling of cocktails. Although the name originated from its usage in Boston, it has become a widely recognized term for this style of shaker worldwide.