Shaken vs Stirred - what's the difference?

Hey there, cocktail enthusiasts!

Here at Boxtails, we want to help you take your Cocktail game to the next level. To start, let's talk about the difference between shaken and stirred cocktails.

When it comes to mixing up a delicious and perfectly balanced drink, the method of preparation is just as important as the ingredients themselves. And whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, understanding the difference between shaken and stirred is crucial.

Shaken cocktails are made by placing all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker, adding ice, and then shaking it vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. The shaking motion chills the drink and also helps to dilute the ingredients, creating a frothy and well-blended drink. This method is often used for cocktails that have ingredients that don't mix well, or for cocktails with a high proportion of citrus, such as a Margarita or a Daiquiri. The shaking action helps to emulsify the ingredients, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

On the other hand, stirred cocktails are made by placing all the ingredients into a mixing glass, adding ice, and then stirring with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds. Stirring helps to chill the drink and also helps to mix the ingredients, creating a smooth and well-balanced drink. This method is often used for cocktails that have ingredients that are easy to mix and that have a lower proportion of citrus, such as a Manhattan or a Martini. The stirring action helps to blend the ingredients together while keeping them separate, creating a clear and crisp texture.

Moving swiftly on to some of the best shaken cocktails.... A classic Margarita is always a great choice, made with tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau, it's a perfect balance of sweet and sour. For something a little more adventurous, try a Pina Colada, a tropical blend of pineapple, coconut cream and rum, it's a perfect escape from the daily routine. Another great shaken cocktail is the Mai Tai, made with rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and lime juice, this tiki classic is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise.

And for the best stirred cocktails, you can't go wrong with a classic Manhattan, made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it's a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. And for something a little more modern, try a Negroni, made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, it's a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. And for bourbon lovers, the Boulevardier, a variation of the negroni made with Bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari, it's a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.

So, next time you're out for a night on the town or hosting a party at home, impress your friends with your knowledge of shaken and stirred cocktails. Remember, the method of preparation is just as important as the ingredients themselves, and understanding the difference can help you make the perfect drink every time. Cheers!