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Cocktail shakers are the essential tool for your bar. A good one will help any novice or seasoned bartender or you, the party host make great drinks. The versatility is what makes it invaluable. It is used to chill liquors, mix, strain, blend and measure. What other bar device does so much?

Here are the primary considerations if you are looking to purchase a shaker. First you must decide if you want a shaker for function or decoration. There are lots of shakers on the market, some in rather elaborate sets. You can also find shakers in many sizes.

If you are focused on function and want a shaker that will serve you well and be a good value, go for stainless. A 16 ounce version will be large enough to mix 2-3 drinks at once. Stainless is the best for chilling liquors that will not be served with ice. (Think martini or cosmopolitan) It will chill quickly and stay cool if you are making 2 or 3 drinks in a row. The top serves as a shot glass if you need to insure accurate measurements. The strainer will, well, strain ice for cocktails served straight up.

If decor is most important, you have lots of options there too. You can get shakers that are glass, stainless and glass, stainless and even crystal. I don't think the glass and crystal versions chill as quickly an seem a bit more difficult to work with but definitely look great on a tray or lacquered bar top. There are even some types that have drink recipes on the outside. You can go for a decorative type that is made to match accessories for a pub style bar, or a sports theme and many more.

Other options to consider: Shaker and glass sets are an easy way to match bar-ware. Individual size shakers are popular now allowing guests to "shakeup" their own drinks. You can even get plastic non-breakabe shakers made for pool side mixing.

Select a shaker that will work for you and allow you to mix beverages with flair!

Learn more about this author, Phyllis Nichols.
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