Cocktail Shakers
Cocktail Shakers as you well know, are an absolute must for the home bar enthusiast. Once again, stylish and elegant entertaining has never been easier. Imagine the looks on your guests faces when you use your cocktail shaker to produce a mouth watering margarita or a classic martini.
Cocktail Shaker Purposes
A cocktail shaker gives you the ability to create professional quality cocktails quicker than you can say “shaken not stirred”. With a wide variety of styles and finishes that are now available to virtually match any home bar décor, choosing the perfect cocktail shaker to meet your needs has never been easier. A cocktail shaker is a tool used to mix beverages by shaking. When ice is added to the shaker, this cools the beverage before drinking. To use a cocktail shaker, you put the fruit juice or syrup, liqueurs and ice into the cocktail shaker and then shake it heavily for about 10 seconds-depending on what taste you desire.
Cocktail Shaker Types
There are three types of cocktail shakers. The Boston Shaker is a two piece shaker that has a metal bottom and a glass or plastic mixing cup. The container and bottom are inserted into one another for shaking. A separate shaker is required for this type of cocktail shaker if you use crushed ice.
The Cobbler Shaker is a three piece cocktail shaker that tapers out at the top and the bottom, has a strainer built into the unit and it includes a cap. The cap can be used to measure the liquor.
A French Shaker is a two piece shaker that has a metal cap and a metal bottom. A strainer is required for this type of cocktail shaker.
During the 1920's prohibition era in the United States, cocktail shakers were made in a wide variety of designs and shapes including cocktail shakers in the shapes of animals, airplanes and lighthouses. Cocktail shaking skills were often showcased in jazz clubs, and cocktail shakers were a sign of living a glamorous lifestyle, as featured in movies.
Vintage Cocktail Shakers
Today you can buy novelty and designer cocktail shakers. These cocktail shakers do not look anything like the normal shaker and they make great gifts.
Cocktail shakers are available at fine kitchen shops and the prices vary widely, depending on the materials used and the styling. Many bar aficionados collect cocktail shakers from days gone by, and often showcase them in cabinets or special shelves.
