Cobbler

• The cobbler cocktail shaker -- also known as the European cocktail shaker -- is usually made of aluminum, although occasionally you see glass versions. It consists of a large receptacle and a top that often doubles as a measure for ingredients. The top also has a built in strainer through which the finished cocktail is poured. When the cobbler is being shaken, this strainer is covered by a cap.
  
  

Boston

• The Boston cocktail shaker consists of two conical parts of roughly equal size, one glass and one metal -- usually aluminum. The ingredients are poured into the glass receptacle over which the metal part is placed. A quick tap on the shaker seals it and allows you to start shaking. A second tap breaks the seal and the drink is poured from the glass half of the shaker, often through an auxiliary hand-held strainer, although some bartenders strain by narrowly separating the two halves and pouring the drink through the resulting gap. A third type of cocktail shaker is the French style, which is essentially the same as the Boston, except both parts are made of metal and a hand-held strainer is always used.
  
  

Technique

• For both main types of cocktail shaker, the technique for mixing a cocktail is the same. Ice cubes or crushed ice goes in first. Then each ingredient is added -- most people use a measure (sometimes called a jigger) for this, although experienced cocktail-makers can do it by sight. Put the top of the shaker on and shake it between 10 and 20 seconds. Pour the drink out over fresh ice or into a clean glass -- the ice in the shaker is not used as part of the drink. If the recipe calls for it, add a straw and any garnishes, then enjoy.
  
  

Extra

• Not all drinks that are classified as cocktails are mixed in a cocktail shaker. Many drinks that use clear spirits, such as gin and vodka, as their base ingredient are stirred rather than shaken to prevent the drink from turning cloudy.