Cocktail making has become a popular trend in recent years. The perfect cocktail requires not only the right ingredients but also the right tools. Two of the most popular cocktail shakers used in the industry are the cobbler shaker and the Boston shaker.
In this article, we will compare the cobbler and Boston shaker to determine which one is better for making cocktails. We will discuss the features of each shaker, their advantages and disadvantages, and the overall performance when it comes to creating the perfect cocktail. Whether you are a professional bartender or a home mixologist, this article will help you decide which shaker is the right choice for you.
Introduction to Cobbler and Boston Shaker
When it comes to making cocktails, choosing the right tool is key to achieving a successful result. Two popular options that are often used by bartenders and home mixologists are the Cobbler and Boston shaker. The Cobbler shaker is a three-piece cocktail shaker that consists of a metal tumbler, a strainer, and a lid with a built-in strainer. The Boston shaker is a two-piece cocktail shaker that consists of a metal or glass tumbler and a metal or rubber cap.
While both shakers have their unique features and benefits, they also have their limitations. For instance, the Cobbler shaker is user-friendly and is perfect for beginners who are just starting to make cocktails. It is also ideal for making single drinks as it has a smaller capacity compared to the Boston shaker. On the other hand, the Boston shaker is versatile and can be used for both shaking and stirring cocktails. It is also ideal for making large batches of drinks as it has a larger capacity. Overall, choosing the right shaker will depend on the user’s preference and the type of cocktail they want to make.
Understanding the Cobbler Cocktail Shaker
The cobbler cocktail shaker is a classic three-piece cocktail shaker that has been in use since the 19th century. It consists of a metal tumbler, a strainer cap, and a lid with a built-in spout. The tumbler can hold a volume of up to 16 oz, which makes it perfect for shaking and straining cocktails. The strainer cap fits snugly on top of the tumbler and has several perforations that help to filter the ice and other solids from the liquid.
The cobbler shaker is easy to use and perfect for beginners due to its small size. It is also suitable for shaking cocktails that require a gentle shake, and can be used to make classic cocktails such as the Whiskey Sour, Daiquiri, and Margarita. The cobbler shaker holds the ice better than the Boston shaker and ideal for making small volumes. Its major drawback is the difficulty in opening and closing it as it requires a bit more practice than a Boston shaker. Overall, the cobbler shaker is a great choice for a home bartender who wants to get started making classic cocktails without spending too much on a shaker.
Understanding the Boston Cocktail Shaker
The Boston Cocktail Shaker consists of two separate parts – a metal shaker tin and a mixing glass or pint glass. The shaker tin is usually made of stainless steel and has a volume capacity of around 28 ounces. It is tapered and sleek, which makes it easier to handle and allows for a snug fit with the mixing glass. The mixing glass is also made of durable glass and has a volume capacity of about 16 ounces. It is designed to withstand the cold temperature of ice and used for stirring drinks.
To use the Boston Cocktail Shaker, the shaker tin is held with one hand while the mixing glass is inserted into the tin with the other hand. The two are then firmly pushed together to create a seal. The drink ingredients are then added to the mixing glass, followed by the ice. It is important to not fill the mixing glass to the brim with ice to prevent spilling when shaking. After shaking, the seal is broken by hitting it with the palm of the hand, and the drink is poured through a strainer into the serving glass. The Boston Cocktail Shaker is commonly used by professional bartenders for its efficiency in creating multiple drinks at once.
Pros and Cons of Using the Cobbler Shaker
Cobbler shakers are compact and easy to use, making them an ideal choice for home bartenders. They consist of three parts – the main chamber, a built-in strainer, and a cap that doubles as a jigger. This design means that you don’t need any additional tools to make drinks, which makes the cobbler the go-to option for beginners or those who prefer convenience over anything else. Besides, the cap/jigger allows you to measure ingredients accurately, which is crucial in creating complex cocktails that require a specific balance of flavors.
On the other hand, cobbler shakers have their downsides. One of the main issues is the built-in strainer that can be too coarse, allowing ice chips to pass through and dilute the drink. It can also block easily, leading to an uneven flow of liquid. Additionally, cobbler shakers are harder to clean than Boston shakers because of their small parts, making them less practical for high volume bars. Finally, the cap/jigger can sometimes be limiting, as it does not provide the flexibility of using different sized jiggers to create a more varied drink menu.
Pros and Cons of Using the Boston Shaker
The Boston shaker is a popular choice among bartenders because it’s simple to use and doesn’t have any complicated mechanisms or parts that may break or wear out over time. The biggest advantage of the Boston shaker is that it’s larger than the cobbler shaker, allowing for larger batches of drinks to be made in one go.
However, the Boston shaker does have its drawbacks. One significant problem bartenders face is the occasional difficulty in separating the two parts of the shaker, which can make preparing drinks in a hurry extremely frustrating. The lack of a built-in strainer is another disadvantage of the Boston shaker, as a separate sieve or strainer must be used, resulting in an increase in the number of tools needed to make the perfect cocktail. Despite these cons, the Boston shaker is still a popular choice among bartenders everywhere due to its reliability and ease of use.
Which Shaker is Better? Comparing Results
When it comes to making cocktails, the shaker you use plays a significant role in the overall quality of the drink. The two main types of shakers used by bartenders are the cobbler shaker and the Boston shaker. To determine which shaker is better, it is important to compare the results each shaker can provide.
On one hand, cobbler shakers are easier to use and generally come with a built-in strainer, which can be convenient for some bartenders. They are also smaller in size, making them easier to handle. On the other hand, Boston shakers are known for creating a more intense, frothy shake due to their larger size and the fact that they require a separate strainer. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific cocktail you are making. By comparing the results of both shakers, you can choose the one that works best for you and your drinks.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cocktail Shaker
When it comes to choosing the perfect cocktail shaker, there are several factors you should consider. The first thing to think about is the type of shaker you want. Do you prefer the traditional cobbler style or the more modern Boston shaker? Cobbler shakers are easier to use and often come with a built-in strainer, while Boston shakers require a separate strainer but are better for creating larger batches of cocktails.
Another important factor to consider is the material of the shaker. Stainless steel is a popular option as it is durable and has good insulation, keeping your cocktail properly chilled. Other materials, like copper or glass, can add a unique aesthetic to your bar setup but may not be as practical for everyday use. Ultimately, the perfect cocktail shaker is one that feels comfortable in your hand, suits your needs and style, and makes you excited to mix up your favorite drinks.
The Bottom Line
After exploring the benefits and drawbacks of both the cobbler and Boston shaker, it seems that the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If ease of use, affordability, and compactness are important factors, the cobbler may be the best choice. However, if precision and versatility are important, the Boston shaker may be the better option.
It is important to note that both the cobbler and Boston shaker have their own unique features and serve different purposes. No matter which shaker you choose, it is essential to choose one that suits your needs and style. With the proper tools and technique, any cocktail enthusiast can create delicious and professional-grade drinks at home.