James Bond prefers his martinis shaken not stirred.
In the context of a drink, shaken ensures it is fully mixed and the result might be frothy from the introduction of air in the shaking process.
Stirring is preferable when the ice shouldn’t get too crushed and the ingredients are mixed more gently.
Some argue that Bond is making a mistake by having his martini shaken not stirred, as the ingredients of a martini would offer a better taste experience if stirred.
Typically, drinks that are shaken have thicker ingredients like syrup or cream. A martini does not usually have those thicker liquids.
Perhaps it fits with Bond’s character that he would choose shaken over stirred. Shaken has connotations of force and fear, which are all part of the job for Bond.
I think I prefer stirred not shaken in most aspects of life.
Stirred is a more gentle and gradual process and also has the meaning of arousing emotion.
If I were studying for an exam, rather than force the information into my brain in a rapid shake up, I would prefer a deliberate processing of significant facts so that I might retain them for longer.
If I were preparing for a sporting event, rather than leaving myself shook after a once-off intense and fierce workout, I would prefer to gradually and slowly train until I was ready for the event.
If I were selling a product or service, rather than leave people shaken by bombarding them with a sales pitch, I would prefer to gradually stir them to win them over or encourage them to action.
What would you choose?
Feature image credit: Ambitious Creative Co. Rick Barrett via Unsplash
Sinead Huskisson 