James Bond, the British secret agent who has been portrayed in films since the 1960s, is known for his impeccable taste in fashion, gadgets, and of course, cocktails. Among the many catchphrases and quotes associated with Agent 007, "shaken not stirred" is perhaps the most famous. Let's explore the origins and meanings behind this iconic line.
What Does "Shaken Not Stirred" Mean?
First of all, let's define what it means to shake or stir a cocktail. Shaking a drink involves combining the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and vigorously shaking the mixture to chill it and mix the flavors. Stirring, on the other hand, involves gently mixing the ingredients in a glass or pitcher with a long spoon.
Now, when James Bond orders his martini "shaken not stirred," he is expressing his preference for how he likes his drink prepared. He believes that shaking the martini with ice creates a smoother and more evenly blended cocktail, whereas stirring can sometimes leave the drink too diluted or cloudy. Additionally, shaking a martini can create a layer of small ice chips on the top, which Bond finds appealing.
The Origins of the Line
The phrase "shaken not stirred" first appeared in Ian Fleming's 1956 novel "Diamonds Are Forever," when Bond orders a drink from a room service waiter. The line was later used in the 1964 film "Goldfinger," starring Sean Connery as Bond, and has since become a recurring catchphrase in the James Bond franchise.
Interestingly, the line was not originally written by Fleming himself, but rather by screenwriter Wolf Mankowitz, who was tasked with adapting "Diamonds Are Forever" for the big screen. Mankowitz, who was known for his wit and humor, added the line to give Bond a distinct personality and style.
Impact on Cocktail Culture
The popularity of the James Bond films and the character's affinity for martinis has had a significant impact on cocktail culture. The "Vesper," a cocktail featured in Fleming's novel "Casino Royale," has become a popular choice among Bond fans and mixologists alike. The drink is made with gin, vodka, Lillet Blanc, and a lemon twist, and is typically served in a martini glass.
Additionally, the martini has become synonymous with sophistication and elegance, and the phrase "shaken not stirred" has become a shorthand for someone who knows their way around a good cocktail. The line has also been parodied and referenced in countless movies, TV shows, and pop culture moments over the years.
Conclusion
While James Bond may be a fictional character, his impact on popular culture and cocktail history is very real. The line "shaken not stirred" has become a symbol of sophistication and style, and has helped to elevate the martini to iconic status. So the next time you order a drink, you can channel your inner Bond and confidently ask for your cocktail to be shaken, not stirred.