Written by: Ava Mitchell
Updated on: 6/8/2025

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Can I Shake All Types of Cocktails?

Mixing a cocktail isn't just about combining ingredients—it's about bringing out flavors, aromas, and textures in the glass. The question of whether you can (or should) shake every cocktail comes down to much more than just preference. Understanding when to shake or stir makes all the difference in the final drink.

Why Not All Cocktails Should Be Shaken

Shaking a cocktail injects air, chills quickly, and creates tiny bubbles and a cloudy appearance. That's ideal for recipes with fruit juice, cream, eggs, or thick syrups—ingredients that need force to fully blend, aerate, or emulsify. However, shaking doesn't suit every recipe. For spirit-forward drinks that rely on pure clarity and velvety textures—like the Martini, Manhattan, or Negroni—stirring is the preferred method. These cocktails are mostly spirits plus maybe a bit of liqueur or vermouth. Stirring ensures slow dilution, crystal-clear appearance, and a silky mouthfeel.

Cocktail Types: Shaken, Stirred, or Built

• Shaken cocktails often contain juice, dairy, eggs, or syrups. Examples: Whiskey Sour, Margarita, Espresso Martini.
• Stirred cocktails are spirit-forward with only clear ingredients. Examples: Martini, Manhattan, Negroni.
• Built drinks are assembled directly in the serving glass. Examples: Gin & Tonic, Mojito, Tom Collins.

Shaking is not only about mixing but also about transforming the drink’s texture and appearance. And for certain types—especially those with citrus—it’s the only way to achieve proper integration and a refreshing, lively profile.

What Happens If You Shake the Wrong Type?

Shaking spirit-only cocktails breaks their clarity and texture. The result is a cloudy, overly diluted drink that lacks the intended elegance and flavor focus. On the flip side, stirring a cocktail that relies on citrus or creamy textures leaves it flat and poorly mixed. Mastering both techniques is what separates a good drink from a great one.

Simple Guide: When to Shake or Stir

• Shake with juice, cream, eggs, or thick syrups and liqueurs.
• Stir with only clear spirits and liqueurs—vermouth, bitters, fortified wines.
• Build tall and carbonated drinks directly in the glass.

Knowing which cocktails to shake helps preserve their intended balance and appearance—and lets every ingredient shine as it should.