The Art of Drinks

Published: November 26, 2008

In honor of the release of James Bond – Quantum of Solace, in theaters Friday on November 14th, Stirrings has investigated the history of Bond’s “shaken, not stirred” preference for martinis, and has uncovered the logic behind the iconic phrase. Stirrings has also created several modern day 007 recipes that you can mix up at home to celebrate the legendary character’s return next month.

When to Shake, When to Stir

While Stirrings usually recommends shaking most cocktails, there are some occasions that call for a stirred drink.

The rules are as follows:

Shake opaque drinks, those made with fruit juices, milk, and/or cream

Stir clear drinks, such as a gin martini. Shaking the drink will “bruise” the gin, taking away from the drink’s smoothness

However, it is okay to shake a vodka martini – vodka will benefit from the chill of the ice and will taste better colder and with the flavors blended

THE DRINK
Quantum Pear Martini

2 parts Stirrings Pear Martini
1 1/2 parts Hennessey
Dash of Stirrings Blood Orange Bitters

Rim martini glass with Stirrings Pear Martini Rimmer. Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice. Shake and strain into rimmed glass. Garnish with a slice of pear.

THE DRINK
00rganic Dark & Stormy

2 parts Stirrings Organic Classic Ginger Mixer
1 part black strap rum (Gosling's rum recommended)

In a cocktail shaker, combine Organic Classic Ginger Mixer with rum and plenty of ice. Cover and shake vigorously. Strain into a Collins glass and garnish with a lime wedge.

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