HOW TO USE A COCKTAIL SHAKER

We recommend using a stainless steel shaker (not glass or other material) as it keeps the drink nice and cold. Getting hold of a good little strainer is also a fab and worthwhile investment.

The basic technique for shaking your cocktail is simple: 

• If you’ve got a standard ‘cobbler’ shaker (just one ‘cup’, with a strainer and lid), add your liquid first, then lots of ice cubes
• If you’ve got a Boston shaker, with two ‘cups’: put your drink ingredients into one half of the cocktail shaker. Add lots of fresh ice cubes* to the other part of the shaker and quickly turn it over and jam it on top of the half containing the liquid
• Ensure the shaker is well sealed! Then, holding tightly, shake vigorously - don’t hold back here!
• Shake for at least 12 seconds. Science experts have reported that the drink won’t get any more chilled or diluted after that amount of time. When the shaker frosts up, you’re ready!
• The only times when you might want to shake for up to 30 seconds is when using particularly thick ingredients like marmalade, to ensure they are fully dissolved into the drink
• Strain your liquid into your chosen - chilled glass.
• Remember to use fresh ice in your glass (not the stuff already in the shaker) if the drink calls for it

Top Tips:

• Remember to only use the volume of ingredients for the number of drinks that the shaker can handle and/or adjust your recipe accordingly!

• Make sure your ice is dry to the touch, i.e. straight out the freezer - wet or crushed ice will dilute your drink far too much.

 5 classic gin cocktails that need a good shaking

• Breakfast Martini - shaking will ‘melt’ the marmalade for a smooth, lump-free cocktail!
• Clover Club - get shaking to generate that famously frothy texture!