Monday Manners Rule #33: Don't Allow Drinks to Sit in Shakers

Don't ruin a martini while it's still in the shaker. Leaving it on ice for too long before you shake it will allow the ice to melt, causing the drink to become diluted.

If you're called away before you can properly finish making the martini, quickly strain the spirits into an empty glass until you can shake the drink, and then immediately pour and serve.