What's the Difference Between a Shaker and Mixing Glass?

Shakers and mixing glasses look similar. But they're used for different techniques. Understanding the difference improves your cocktails.

This guide explains when to use each one. You'll know which technique to use for different drinks.

What is a Shaker?

A shaker is a sealed container. You put ingredients and ice inside, then shake it. The shaking action mixes everything together.

Shakers come in different styles. Boston shakers have two pieces that fit together. Cobbler shakers have three pieces that screw together.

What is a Mixing Glass?

A mixing glass is an open glass. You put ingredients and ice inside, then stir with a bar spoon. The stirring action mixes everything together.

Mixing glasses are wider than regular glasses. This makes stirring easier. The large opening gives you room to work.

The Key Difference

Shakers seal completely. You shake them to mix drinks. This adds air and creates texture.

Mixing glasses are open. You stir them with a spoon. This keeps drinks clear and smooth.

When to Shake

Shake drinks that need aeration. The shaking action adds air bubbles. This creates a frothy texture.

Shake these drinks:

• Drinks with citrus juice
• Drinks with egg whites
• Drinks with cream
• Sours and fizzes

Shaking emulsifies ingredients. It blends flavors thoroughly. The texture is lighter and frothier.

When to Stir

Stir drinks that should stay clear. The stirring action mixes without adding air. This keeps drinks smooth and transparent.

Stir these drinks:

• Martinis
• Manhattans
• Old Fashioneds
• Negronis

Stirring preserves clarity. It doesn't add air bubbles. The texture is smooth and silky.

Why the Difference Matters

The technique affects the final drink. Shaking creates a different texture than stirring. Some drinks require one or the other.

Shaking adds dilution and aeration. Stirring adds dilution without aeration. This changes how the drink feels and tastes.

Can You Use Them Interchangeably?

Not really. You can't stir in a sealed shaker. You can shake in a mixing glass, but it's awkward and messy.

Each tool is designed for its technique. Using the right one makes better drinks.

What About Boston Shakers?

Boston shakers can be confusing. They have a mixing glass as one piece. But you use them for shaking, not stirring.

The mixing glass piece is just a container. You still shake the drink. The glass is durable enough to handle shaking.

Common Mistakes

Shaking when you should stir - This adds unwanted air. Martinis and manhattans should be stirred, not shaken.

Stirring when you should shake - This doesn't mix ingredients well. Sours and fizzes need shaking.

Using the wrong tool - Each tool is designed for its technique. Using the right one matters.

Do You Need Both?

You need both if:

• You make both shaken and stirred drinks
• You want to make drinks properly
• You're serious about technique

You can start with one if:

• You only make one type of drink
• You're just starting out
• Budget is tight

Start with a shaker if you make mostly shaken drinks. Add a mixing glass later if you want to stir drinks.

Bottom Line

Shakers are for shaking. Mixing glasses are for stirring. They're different tools for different techniques.

Shaking adds air and creates texture. Stirring keeps drinks clear and smooth. Each technique serves a purpose.

Use the right tool for the right drink. This makes better cocktails. The technique matters as much as the ingredients.