Why Stirred Cocktails?

Bartenders stir spirit-forward cocktails like the Martini, Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Negroni. This method cools and waters down the drink while keeping a silky clear look without adding air bubbles.

Essential Equipment

• Mixing Glass – Cool it first to avoid too much ice melt.
• Bar Spoon – Its shape allows for easy steady stirring.
• Strainer – A Julep strainer fits well in the glass, but you can use a Hawthorne strainer if needed.

Handy Tip: Don't have a mixing glass? Any tough container, like a pitcher, can do the job if you're in a bind.

Choosing Between Stirring and Shaking

Stirring works best for spirit forward sipping drinks that don't need air mixed in. Shaking is used for mixed drinks with lemon, milk, or raw egg whites, which need to be blended but end up looking murky.

Getting Better at Stirring

1. Get Your Stuff Ready – Here's what you need for a Manhattan: 
   
   • 50ml Whisky
   • 20ml Sweet Vermouth
   • 3 Dashes of Bitters
2. Throw in Some Ice – Pack the mixing glass to the brim. This helps cool it fast and keeps it from watering down too much.
3. Give It a Good Stir – Grab the spoon in a way that feels right. Keep the back of it against the glass as you make smooth circles.
4. Watch the Clock – Stir for 15-20 seconds (about 20 times around) or until it's nice and cold. Take a sip now and then to make sure it tastes just right.
5. Strain & Serve – Grab a Julep strainer to pour the drink into a cold glass, add a garnish, and savor it!!

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