We’ve all heard it: “shaken, not stirred.” But what does that actually mean for your cocktail and why does it matter?
Whether you're making a Martini or a Margarita, knowing when to shake and when to stir is one of the most important skills in mixology.
In this post, we’ll explore the science behind shaking vs. stirring, explain what each technique does to your drink, and share which classic cocktails belong in each category, with links to full recipes.
Why Technique Matters in Cocktails
Shaking and stirring don’t just look cool, they affect:
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Texture (light and airy vs. silky and smooth)
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Dilution (how much water is added from ice)
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Temperature (how cold your drink gets)
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Appearance (clear vs. cloudy)
In other words: how you mix a drink changes how it tastes.
When to Shake a Cocktail
Use shaking when your cocktail contains:
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Citrus juice (lime, lemon, etc.)
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Cream or egg white
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Fruit juices, syrups, or dairy
What it does:
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Incorporates ingredients that don’t naturally mix (like juice + liquor)
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Adds texture (especially with egg white or cream)
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Introduces small air bubbles → creates a frothy, lighter feel
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Results in a cloudy appearance and brighter taste
Classic Shaken Cocktails:
Pro Tip: Shake hard for 10–15 seconds with plenty of ice.
When to Stir a Cocktail
Use stirring when your cocktail contains:
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Only spirits and clear ingredients (e.g., bitters, vermouth)
What it does:
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Gently chills the drink without over-diluting
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Preserves a silky, smooth texture
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Keeps the cocktail clear and elegant
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Prevents bruising of delicate ingredients (like vermouth)
Classic Stirred Cocktails:
Pro Tip: Stir for 20–30 seconds with ice in a mixing glass for proper chill and dilution.
What Happens If You Do It Wrong?
While it’s not a crime to shake a Manhattan or stir a Margarita… it does change:
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Clarity: Shaking spirit-only drinks makes them look cloudy and unrefined
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Mouthfeel: Stirring citrus-based drinks leaves them flat and under-mixed
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Balance: Improper technique can lead to over- or under-diluted drinks
Bottom line: Stick with the right technique to let each cocktail shine.
Final Thoughts
Learning when to shake and when to stir isn’t just about tradition—it’s about elevating every cocktail you make.
With just two techniques, you can control flavor, texture, and appearance like a pro.
Use this guide (and the recipe links above) to practice both methods and feel confident the next time you step behind the bar—even if it’s just your kitchen counter.
