When it comes to mixing drinks, there are a few different types of shakers that bartenders and mixologists use to create delicious concoctions. One of the most common types is called the Boston shaker. This shaker consists of two parts – two metal tins that are similar in size to a mixing glass. The beauty of the Boston shaker is its simplicity. It is easy to use and provides a great seal when shaking the ingredients together.
I remember when I first started learning about cocktails, the Boston shaker was the one I was most familiar with. It was the type of shaker that I had seen bartenders use in movies, and it had a certain elegance to it. The two metal tins fit together snugly, and with a quick shake, the drink would be well mixed and ready to serve.
Another type of shaker that is commonly used is the Cobbler shaker. This type of shaker has three parts – a metal tumbler, a built-in strainer, and a cap that fits over the strainer. The Cobbler shaker is often preferred by home bartenders or those who are just starting out in the cocktail-making world. Its built-in strainer eliminates the need for a separate strainer, making it more convenient for those who may not have a full set of bar tools.
I remember when I first tried using a Cobbler shaker at home. I found it to be quite user-friendly, especially with the built-in strainer. It made it easy to pour the drink directly from the shaker into a glass without any extra steps. However, I did notice that sometimes the cap would get stuck, and it required a bit of force to remove it. Nevertheless, it was a minor inconvenience compared to the overall ease of use.
The third type of shaker is the Parisian, also known as the French shaker. This type of shaker consists of just two parts – a metal tumbler and a metal lid. Unlike the Boston shaker, the Parisian shaker does not have a built-in strainer. This means that a separate strainer, such as a Hawthorne strainer, is needed to strain the drink when pouring it into a glass.
I have had the opportunity to use a Parisian shaker a few times, and I must say it requires a bit more technique and skill compared to the other types. Without a built-in strainer, it is important to have a separate strainer on hand to ensure that no ice or unwanted ingredients end up in the final drink. However, once you get the hang of it, the Parisian shaker can be a stylish and efficient tool for mixing drinks.
There are three main types of cocktail shakers – the Boston, the Cobbler, and the Parisian. Each shaker has its own advantages and considerations. The Boston shaker is simple and provides a tight seal, the Cobbler shaker is convenient with its built-in strainer, and the Parisian shaker offers a sleek design but requires a separate strainer. Ultimately, the choice of shaker depends on the preferences and needs of the bartender or mixologist.