From elegant silver to sleek stainless steel, the cocktail shaker has journeyed through time, evolving alongside our beloved drinks. It’s more than a tool – it’s a symbol of craftsmanship and a key player in the theatre of cocktail making.
The Accidental Invention
The mid-19th century saw the birth of the cocktail shaker as we know it. Legend has it, an innkeeper, while demonstrating his pouring prowess between two containers, stumbled upon the perfect shaking technique. Noticing one container fit snugly into the other, he gave them a vigorous shake, creating a spectacle and a new way to mix drinks. This accidental invention sparked a wave of innovation.
Rapid Evolution and Refinement
The late 19th century witnessed rapid advancements in shaker design. Patents from the 1870s and 1880s introduced integral strainer mechanisms, adding practicality to the shaker’s growing repertoire. These improvements laid the foundation for the shakers we use today.
The Roaring Twenties and Beyond
During the 1920s Prohibition era in the United States, cocktail shakers became symbols of rebellion and sophistication. Shakers were crafted in whimsical shapes, like penguins and airplanes, reflecting the era’s exuberance. Post-Prohibition, the cocktail shaker became a cinematic icon, mirroring the dazzling lives of movie stars and solidifying its status as a symbol of the good life.
Celebrating the shaker’s rich history, we’re highlighting a few of our top picks and the drinks they were born to mix.
Mezclar 18oz Tin & 28oz Boston Can Set Stainless Steel
- Boston Shaker:
- The workhorse of the professional bar. Two tins create a tight seal for vigorous shaking.
- Beaumont Pick: The 28oz Stainless Steel Boston Can is a reliable choice for high-volume bars, offering durability and performance.
- Best for: Shaken cocktails like Daiquiris, Margaritas, and Sours.
- Cobbler Shaker:
- Features a built-in strainer, making it ideal for home bartenders and quick service.
- Beaumont Pick: The 8oz (236ml) DeLuxe Cocktail Shaker offers a classic look and convenient built-in strainer.
- Best for: Simpler shaken cocktails.
The Mezclar 600ml French Shaker Copper Plated
- French Shaker:
- A sleek, elegant design preferred by some bartenders.
- Beaumont Pick: The Mezclar 600ml French Shaker Copper Plated brings a touch of refined elegance to the bar.
- Best for: Cocktails that require a delicate touch.
We offer a diverse range of shakers, from classic stainless steel to eye-catching gold and copper-plated options, ensuring you have the perfect tool for the perfect drink. Because when it comes to cocktails, the right shaker can make all the difference.
