Barware Tools: Martini Shakers

The most common cocktail or Martini shaker is usually made from stainless steel. This container mixes all your cocktail ingredients and also cools your drink when shaken with ice. Martinis are served cold but not on the rocks, so always remember to add a few cubes of ice to your ingredients and shake well.

When most people think of a cocktail shaker, the Cobbler style shaker comes to mind. This barware tool is made of stainless steel, has a built-in strainer and a cap. Most novices start with this type of shaker because it is easiest to use but a vacuum seal can form sometimes which makes it difficult to remove the top.

The more advanced bartender uses the Boston Shaker. This one is also made of stainless steel but the mixing glass is slightly smaller. It is used by placing the ingredients of the cocktail inside the glass and filling it with ice. Next you fit the tumbler on top of the glass mixer and smack it to make sure they have formed a tight seal. Shake carefully to mix the drink well. Give the tumbler another soft smack to break the seal.

Next is the strainer. The most desired strainer is the Hawthorne strainer which has a spring that's perfect for fitting any glass or tumbler. Place the strainer on top of the mixing glass and carefully pour the cocktail into the your waiting martini glass. Martini shakers are an essential barware tool for making your favorite cocktails.

Must-Have Tools for Every Barware Set

For hundreds of years, bartenders around the world have enjoyed serving and entertaining eager bar patrons. The new wave of extreme bartending has become an instant crowd pleaser. You can buy your own barware set and learn to perform these tricks too.

One of the most important tools in a set of barware is the shaker. Whether you are an amateur or a pro, the shaker is essential when mixing drinks. The best kind are those made of stainless steel. They are usually shaped like an urn and are used to make some of the more popular drinks such as martinis and various other cocktails. Many liquor brands offer a free plastic shaker with your purchase. These work well also. Some barware sets include a mini shaker or mixer for those occasions when you may be drinking alone.

Other less known items included in a set are muddlers and bar measures. A muddler looks sort of like a pestle and its purpose is to grind ingredients that are mixed into your favorite cocktails. Usually the head of the muddler is constructed out of plastic or rubber and has spikes. The handle of the muddler is of stainless steel. They are usually used by bartenders that are very knowledgeable about exotic cocktails.

Bar measure are small stainless steel cups used to measure liquor in small increments of 0.5 - 2 ounces. The little measuring cups are great for beginners who want to stick strictly to a recipe or control the amount of liquor used in their cocktail. These are just a few of the must-haves for any barware set.