UNDER THE OAKS
The Cocktail Corner
by Peter Karnowski, Food & Beverage Director
Shaken or Stirred; The Seven Oaks Method
Shaking and stirring are two essential tech- niques used in cocktail preparation, each serving different purposes based on the ingredients and desired outcome. Shaking is typically employed when a cocktail includes ingredients that are difficult to combine smoothly, such as juices, syrups, or egg whites. The vigorous action of shaking not only helps to mix the ingredients thoroughly but also chills the drink quickly and creates a light, aerated texture, which is ideal for drinks like a Daiquiri or a Whiskey Sour. The ice in the shaker dilutes the drink slightly, which can help balance out the flavors, while the process of shaking also helps to achieve a frothy top, particularly when egg whites or other emulsifiers are involved. In contrast, stirring is the method of choice for cocktails that contain only clear, spirit-forward ingredients, such as the Martini or Old Fashioned. Stirring is a gentler technique that combines ingredients slowly and evenly, ensuring that the drink remains crystal clear and smooth. This method is favored for its ability to maintain the integrity of delicate flavors while chilling the cocktail without excessive dilution. Stirring also prevents the aeration that shaking can produce, which is important for drinks that are meant to be served with a polished, silky texture, rather than a frothy or effervescent one. The choice between shaking and stirring ultimately depends on the composition of the drink and the desired result. Shaking is suited for more complex cocktails with ingredients that require aggressive blending and aeration, while stirring is reserved for those that benefit from a more controlled, smooth mixing process. Understanding when to use each technique is a key part of mastering cocktail crafting, as it influences both the flavor and presentation of the final drink. Ultimately, the choice is yours when it comes to your cocktail, but the club favorite is well shaken with ice chips floating on top!!
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