You've filled your martini shaker (first with ice, then with liquor, then with your Stirrings Mixer). Now what? The big shake - do it properly, and you'll not only impress your friends, but you'll create a better cocktail. Holding the top and the bottom of the shaker with both hands, give it a good, hard shake … being careful not to go over your shoulder (you don't want to whack the person standing behind you!). The reasons for shaking your martini are to:
1. Mix the ingredients - your martini should taste the same in the last sip as it did in the first.
2. Chill the ingredients - tiny ice crystals should float on top of your martini after you strain it into your glass
3. Dilute the ingredients - a small amount of ice should melt into the martini.

Now, strain and pour into your glass(es). If applicable, add a splash of soda into the glass (e.g., for a Mojito). Now, isn't that a better cocktail?
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