What (if any) difference is gained from shaking an alcoholic drink vs stirring it?

Question

You know the classic James Bond line “Martini, shaken, not stirred” is there an actual difference in the taste of the drink from shaking it vs stirring it?

In: 573

Answer 1

As others have stated, shaking it creates ice chips which waters it down…. but let me tell you WHY he does it.

I used to think James was just ordering a weak drink in a pretentious manner, and if anyone else did that, I’d agree. But James is a professional spy who relies on steady hands, split second reactions in life or death moments, but also has to play the part in social situations.

So, do not draw extra suspicion to himself, he orders his signature drink shaken, to water it down, in order to keep his wits about him.